Freelance Production Artist

amika•New York, NY

15h•$45•Hybrid

About The Position

We’re looking for a passionate, detail-driven Production Artist to support the creation of innovative packaging and retail/VM assets for our beauty and haircare portfolio. This role supports the Creative team by preparing, executing, and finalizing high-quality files that are technically accurate, on-brand, and production-ready. Primary focus: packaging production art + retail/VM mechanicals (signage, fixtures, displays). Secondary support: select print assets as needed. The ideal candidate is highly organized, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, able to manage versioning, approvals, and production constraints without sacrificing craft.

Requirements

3–5+ years of experience as a Production Artist in a product company, design studio, creative agency, print publication, or on the manufacturing side (printing/packaging/display supplier)
strong experience preparing and adapting artwork for packaging + retail/VM, with understanding of structure, materials, and production constraints
expert proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (primary), InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro (preflight/proofing)
strong command of typography and production design conventions; ability to supply artwork in appropriate file formats based on manufacturing process
fluency in 4-color process, Pantone matching systems, studio color management, color profiles, and proofing
working knowledge of print processes (litho, flexo, digital) and fundamentals of separations/plates (as applicable)
demonstrated ability to write clear, error-free print specifications and manage accurate versioning/routing
highly organized, detail-obsessed, and able to work independently to obtain clarification and keep projects moving
BA required; BFA/BA in Graphic Design or related field preferred
NYC-based; able to be in-office as needed

Nice To Haves

familiarity with packaging production tools/plugins (e.g., Esko/ArtPro/DeskPack)
experience managing localization workflows (translations, regulatory variations)
DaVinci/advanced color knowledge (helpful for cross-functional collaboration)
experience with common work management / file systems (e.g., Workfront/Asana/Jira, Box/Dropbox)
on-site press checks/approvals with suppliers (ability to travel occasionally, if required)

Responsibilities

consult with Designers/Art Directors throughout the development process and honor their intent when converting designs into production-ready mechanicals
prepare final print-ready files for packaging (cartons, labels, tubes/bottles, shippers, inserts, kits) and VM/Retail(signage, headers, shelf strips, gondola elements, corrugate/acrylic elements, etc.)
execute layout revisions, resizing, adaptations, and multi-SKU versioning (variants, retailer-specific needs, localization/translation where applicable)
build and update mechanicals, dielines, and artwork according to production specifications; adapt vendor-supplied dielines as needed
ensure correct color modes, bleeds, trims, resolution, file formats, and finishing callouts (foil, emboss/deboss, spot varnish, matte/gloss, coatings)
preflight/proof files to identify and correct errors prior to release; maintain an exceptionally high bar for copy accuracy, product truth, and brand consistency
route artwork internally, track approvals, and implement markups accurately with strong version control
coordinate directly with vendors, printers, fabricators, and production partners to meet technical specifications and timelines; troubleshoot issues quickly and calmly
partner with Store Design/VM and Industrial Design to write, refine, and share clear print specs for retail displays and packaging with suppliers and cross-functional partners
advise on print methods, finishes, and production feasibility—flagging risks early (quality, cost, timing) and proposing solutions
evaluate color and finishes during material sampling and prototype reviews; understand how materials affect color and deliver detailed feedback to suppliers and internal stakeholders
maintain organized file systems and handoffs across projects (clear naming, folder hygiene, archival)