Senior Graphics Production Associate

The Senior Graphics Production Associate serves as the advanced production operator and designated graphics department lead within the graphics department. This role is responsible for complex print production, advanced file verification, color management oversight, equipment troubleshooting, and workflow coordination. In the absence of the Graphics Production Supervisor, this role leads graphics department operations, prioritizes workflow, ensures quality control compliance, and serves as the point of escalation for production-related decisions

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES

Production Operations

• Operate and oversee EFI VUTEk (rigid) and EFI FabriVU (fabric) print production.
• Operate Zünd G3 digital cutting systems.
• Manage advanced RIP workflow and color profiling.
• Conduct advanced file reviews for structural compatibility and production feasibility.
• Verify scaling, bleed, contour paths, and color profiles prior to print production.
• Troubleshoot production inconsistencies and minor equipment issues.

Acting Graphics Department Lead (When Supervisor Is Absent)

• Occasionally serves as acting lead during Supervisor PTO/travel assignments
• Provides functional leadership and workflow direction; does not have authority for hire/fire, formal discipline, or compensation decisions
• Lead daily graphics department operations and production workflow.
• Prioritize job sequencing based on show deadlines and shipment schedules.
• Assign workflow tasks among production associates.
• Approve final QC release on high-value or time-sensitive projects.
• Serve as first point of escalation for graphics production challenges.
• Communicate production status updates to Operations or branch leadership as required.

Quality Control Oversight

• Coaches associates on QC standards and waste reduction practices
• Enforce QC standards across all graphics department output.
• Perform final inspection on complex projects.
• Identify trends contributing to reprints or material waste and recommend corrective action.
• Support implementation and enforcement of SOP updates.

Finishing & Show Readiness

• Trim, hem, bead, and finish fabric graphics as required.
• Prepare graphics for packaging and show-site shipment.
• Accurately label and manifest graphics for event execution.
• Properly stage and load graphics for transportation.

Equipment & Safety Compliance

• Perform daily equipment checks and preventive maintenance procedures.
• Support preventive maintenance oversight and documentation.
• Monitor equipment performance and report concerns proactively.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe production environment.
• Follow all safety standards, PPE requirements, and operational SOPs.
• Ensure compliance with operational, safety, and warehouse standards.

Requirements:
• 4+ years of experience in large-format graphic production.
• Advanced experience with EFI VUTEk, FabriVU, and Zünd G3 systems.
• Strong working knowledge of RIP software and color management workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to lead graphics department workflow in deadline-driven environments.
• Strong decision-making, troubleshooting, and communication skills.
• Ability to balance hands-on production with department coordination responsibilities.

PERFORMANCE EXPECTATIONS

• Maintain superior production accuracy and efficiency.
• Reduce departmental reprint rates through QC oversight and coaching.
• Ensure on-time shipment of graphics aligned with show deadlines.
• Successfully lead graphics department operations when Supervisor is absent.
• Model leadership presence and operational discipline.

ALIGINING WITH OUR VALUES FOR SUCCESS

• Demonstrate Core Values of Caring, Commitment, Integrity, Spirit, Responsiveness, Inclusivity, and Teamwork.
• Ability to perform as a responsible ESOP owner, by making daily decisions to benefit the client and the company.
• Treat all internal and external customers with courtesy and respect, as outlined in our Blue Diamond Customer Service Program.

This job description reflects the essential functions of the role and does not prescribe or restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Duties and responsibilities may evolve based on business needs.

Shepard is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, color, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin, ancestry, medical condition, genetic information, military status, veteran status, non‑disqualifying physical or mental disability, or any other non‑merit factor. All employment decisions are made based on business need, job requirements, individual qualifications, and merit.

Benefits:
• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life and Disability Insurance
• 401 (k)