Surface Designer

Wilsonart•Temple, TX

About The Position

Surface Designer leads conceptualization, creative ideation, and design development. Will create concepts and digital files for digital printing, gravure printing, surface design development, and pre press preparation. This role blends creative concepts with production-ready file execution. This role understands how design translates to print and can take projects from ideas, artwork and print-ready files. Work with external agencies and internal design teams to build concepts and translate design vision into printable reality.

Requirements

Experience in a high-volume print environment or print service provider.
Familiarity with large-format printing, finishing equipment, or specialty print processes.
Knowledge of print substrates and their technical constraints.
Experience with digital asset management systems or workflow tools.
Must have advanced proficiency in Photoshop and Illustrator, and working knowledge of RIP softwares.
Must be able to multi-task with the ability to work quickly to fulfill fast-paced deadlines, on time.
Ability to travel as needed, up to 25% of time.
Must be open minded to collaborative problem solving and use a trial-and-error process.
Self-motivated, independent worker with creative and flexible working style
Technical minded with a creative side.
Science/math related fields of study a plus.
Two to four year degree in field related to graphics/technical/art design
3 years of hands-on design experience.
Previous experience or knowledge of digital print industry.
Must pass a color test (cannot be color blind).

Nice To Haves

Experience in design scaling and layout work is beneficial.
Experience and knowledge of laminate manufacturing departments and processes beneficial.

Responsibilities

Develop original concepts, layouts, and surface pattern designs for the Wilsonart product portfolio.
Prepare files for digital printing, ensuring correct color profiles, bleeds, dielines, and resolution.
Create seamless repeats, patterns, and surface designs for various substrates.
Work with production art team to troubleshoot pre press issues and ensure accurate output.
Adapt designs for multiple sizes, materials, or formats.
Collaborate with production teams, printers, and product designers.
Evaluate files for printability. (check for banding, correct any inconsistencies in files, potential issues with production runs, color issues)
This will also include working with both separated and non-separated files to expand the design into several colorways.
Collaborate with the production artist and printer tech to evaluate color inconsistencies and correct problems if they occur with digital files.
Implement steps required to convert designs from digital to rotogravure or vice versa