Sign Shop Designer

Sign Designer / Production Specialist

Location: Tampa, FL 33614

Job Type: Full-Time (On Site)

Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Sign Designer / Production Specialist to join our growing sign and graphics company. This is not a traditional graphic design position. We are looking for a highly skilled sign industry professional who understands the complete lifecycle of a signage project—from design and customer proofing to production, fabrication, and installation preparation.

What We're Looking ForWe are looking for a true sign industry professional—not simply a graphic designer. The ideal candidate can confidently manage projects from concept through production and understands how signage is designed, manufactured, finished, and installed.

The successful candidate will be able to:

Design signage from concept to completionCreate accurate customer proofsPrepare production-ready artworkSelect the proper materials for each projectOperate printers, laminators, and cutters without supervisionTroubleshoot production issues independentlySupport fabrication and installation teamsDeliver high-quality work in a fast-paced production environment

Required QualificationsBachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Industrial Design, or a related fieldMinimum 5 years of professional experience in the sign industryExpert-level proficiency in Adobe IllustratorAdvanced proficiency in Adobe PhotoshopExtensive knowledge of sign fabrication, large-format printing, and production workflowsProven experience operating large-format printers, laminators, vinyl cutters, and finishing equipmentStrong understanding of artwork proofing, file preparation, and production-ready artwork creationExcellent attention to detail and commitment to quality controlStrong communication, organizational, and customer service skillsAbility to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment

ResponsibilitiesDesign & Customer ProofingDesign custom signs, vehicle graphics, banners, storefront graphics, wall graphics, monument signs, channel letters, window graphics, and other visual communication productsCreate professional customer proofs and manage revisions throughout the approval processEnsure all artwork is accurate, properly scaled, production-ready, and compliant with customer branding standardsReview artwork for spelling, dimensions, color accuracy, fabrication requirements, and installation considerationsCommunicate professionally with customers and team members regarding design revisions and project requirements
Sign Industry Material KnowledgeThe successful candidate must possess a strong understanding of signage materials and know when to use each based on application, durability, budget, and installation requirements.

This includes experience with:

Banner Materials

Standard BannerPremium BannerMesh BannerPole BannerDouble-Sided BannerRetractable Banner MaterialsVinyl Products

Calendared VinylCast VinylVehicle Wrap VinylWindow PerfFrosted VinylReflective VinylWall Graphic VinylSpecialty Vinyl ProductsLamination Products

Gloss LaminateMatte LaminateSatin/Luster LaminateFloor Graphic LaminateAnti-Graffiti LaminateRigid Sign Materials

CoroplastPVCFoam BoardACM / DibondAluminumAcrylicPolycarbonateHDUMDOWood Sign Materials

The candidate must understand indoor and outdoor applications, material longevity, fabrication requirements, installation methods, and best-practice material selection.

Production Equipment OperationThe successful candidate must be capable of independently operating and managing sign production equipment, including:

Large Format Printing

Printer setup and operationMaterial loading and media managementColor management and print quality controlRIP software workflowsTroubleshooting print quality issuesLaminating

Operation of cold and heat-assisted laminatorsProper laminate selection based on applicationFinishing graphics, signage, and vehicle wrap materialsIdentifying and correcting finishing defectsVinyl Cutting & Finishing

Setup and operation of vinyl cutters and plottersContour-cut workflowsWeeding and masking graphicsDecal and lettering productionCut path creation and troubleshooting
Production SupportPrepare production-ready files for printing, routing, cutting, and fabricationVerify dimensions, bleed requirements, cut paths, mounting methods, and fabrication specificationsWork closely with production and installation teams to ensure projects are completed accurately and efficientlyIdentify potential production issues before fabrication beginsMaintain organized project files and documentationAssist with production scheduling and workflow managementMaintain high quality standards while meeting deadlines

CompensationBase Salary: $48,000 per yearOn-Target Earnings (OTE): $55,000–$70,000 per yearAdditional earnings opportunities may be available through performance incentives, production bonuses, commissions, or other company compensation programs.