Graphic Designer, Apparel (College Sports Focus)

We are hiring an experienced Graphic Designer with a strong background in apparel design and production. This role is centered on collegiate sports programs, so we are looking for someone who understands the visual identity of college athletics and can design work that connects with fans while meeting real production standards.

This position is based in Nashville, Tennessee and requires working in the office with our team.

Position Overview

The Graphic Designer will create original apparel graphics primarily for college sports programs. The right candidate understands school pride, heritage branding, bold typography, and current retail trends within the sportswear space. You should be able to design pieces that feel current and marketable while also preparing files that are technically sound for production.

This role requires a designer who is both creative and technically skilled. You will collaborate closely with Creative Directors and Account Executives throughout the concept and revision process. The ability to interpret direction, incorporate feedback, and refine work quickly is essential.

You will also be expected to execute advanced screen print separations and work directly with the print team when troubleshooting is needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Design original graphics for collegiate apparel programs
• Develop concepts that align with current sportswear and fashion trends
• Collaborate with Creative Directors on creative direction and brand alignment
• Work with Account Executives to understand client goals and expectations
• Revise artwork based on internal and client feedback
• Create artwork with garment type and decoration method in mind
• Build clean, production-ready files using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
• Execute advanced simulated process spot color separations for screen printing
• Prepare high color count files accurately and efficiently
• Identify potential print issues before production begins
• Work directly with the print team to resolve issues on press
• Adjust artwork and separations based on production feedback
• Maintain organized files that follow internal production standards

Qualifications

• 3 to 5 years of professional experience in apparel graphic design
• Experience designing for collegiate, athletic, or licensed programs preferred
• Strong portfolio showcasing apparel-focused design work
• Advanced proficiency in Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop
• Demonstrated experience with simulated process spot color separations
• Solid understanding of screen printing techniques and limitations
• Ability to troubleshoot artwork in a live production environment
• Strong attention to detail and file organization
• Comfortable receiving direction and constructive feedback
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced production setting

What We Are Looking For

• A designer who understands college sports culture and visual trends
• Someone who stays current with fashion and retail aesthetics
• A creative thinker who also respects production realities
• A professional who takes ownership of their work from concept through press
• A team-oriented individual who communicates clearly and collaborates well with leadership and sales teams

If you have experience in apparel design and know how to create graphics that both sell and print cleanly, we would like to review your portfolio. Please submit your resume along with examples of relevant work.