📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate
🔹 Company: Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing
🔹 Location: Plaza Art-Corporate Office - Silver Spring, MD
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Marketing & Design
🔹 Date Posted: May 9, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Designing and producing various print and digital marketing materials
- Working with print vendors for print production, estimates, and timelines
- Managing inventory of printer supplies and performing necessary maintenance
- Contributing to content planning and strategy of marketing efforts
- Managing email marketing and social media marketing programs
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of creative and administrative tasks, with a focus on marketing and design. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in graphic design and experience managing multiple projects with strict deadlines.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Design and produce various print and digital marketing materials including promotional flyers, store signage, classes and workshop schedules, school coupons, social media posts, emails, web assets, etc.
✅ Work with print vendors for print production, estimates, and timelines
✅ Coordinate across departments to collect data, copy, and assets needed to complete projects
✅ Manage inventory of printer supplies and perform necessary maintenance to printing equipment
✅ Contribute to content planning and strategy of marketing efforts in collaboration with the ecommerce and purchasing teams
✅ Manage email marketing and social media marketing programs
✅ Review and interpret marketing analytics tracking to better plan marketing strategy
✅ Edit and proofread content for all marketing communications and collateral
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of creative and analytical tasks, with a focus on producing high-quality marketing materials and managing marketing campaigns effectively.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design, Marketing, Communications, or similar preferred
Experience: Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in a professional graphic design role managing multiple design projects with strict deadlines; preferably hands-on experience in a fast-paced agency environment
Required Skills:
- Expert knowledge of current version of Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), responsive HTML5 and CSS
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to follow and maintain Plaza's established branding and design aesthetic based on brand guidelines
- Proven experience in print and digital design, retail layouts preferred
- Proficiency in print production and file prep of multipage publications
- Outstanding time-management skills across a fast-paced work environment and ability to meet deadlines
Preferred Skills:
- Video editing skills using Adobe Premier and Adobe Rush
- Copywriting skills and ability to write effective SEO marketing content
- Understanding of, and experience with, utilizing email marketing platforms, social media platforms, and other digital marketing tools to implement a variety of digital marketing efforts
- Interest in staying abreast of design, visual marketing, and e-commerce trends
- Ability to work autonomously on assigned projects and act as your own project manager
- Ability to collaborate with other members of the Marketing & Web Teams in design and planning of marketing materials
- Creative thinker, problem solver, and innovator - able to translate concepts into design as well as contribute to and communicate those ideas
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in graphic design, excellent communication skills, and experience managing multiple projects with strict deadlines. A Bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred but not required.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $45,000.00 - $55,000.00 Salary/year
Benefits:
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Employee Discount on Plaza Products
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a graphic designer with 3-5 years of experience in the retail industry. Benefits may vary and are subject to change.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Retail, specifically focused on art supplies, picture framing, and creative gifts
Company Size: 51-200 employees, which means the company is mid-sized and offers opportunities for growth and collaboration
Founded: 1960, with a rich history in the art supply industry
Company Description:
- Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing is a chain of art supply and framing stores with 12 physical locations in six states and an e-commerce site
- The company offers a wide selection of art materials, creative gifts, and custom framing services
- Plaza also provides additional services such as workshops, demos, classes, delivery, special orders, and bulk discounts
Company Specialties:
- Fine Artist Materials
- Custom Framing
- Graphic Design Supplies
- Creative Children Products
- Fine Craft Supplies and Gifts
Company Website: http://www.plazaart.com
ASSUMPTION: Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing is a well-established company in the retail industry, offering a wide range of products and services to its customers. The company's size and history provide stability and opportunities for growth.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-level, with opportunities for growth and advancement within the marketing and design department
Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate will report directly to the Marketing Manager and work closely with the Marketing and Web teams, as well as Store Staff
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with a 40-hour workweek
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for career advancement within the marketing and design department
- Opportunities to work on diverse projects and gain experience in various aspects of marketing and design
- Chance to collaborate with multiple teams and contribute to the overall success of the company
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the marketing and design department. The ideal candidate will be eager to learn and take on new challenges as they arise.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Corporate office, with a creative and collaborative work environment
Office Location(s): Plaza Art-Corporate Office - Silver Spring, MD
Geographic Context:
- Silver Spring, Maryland is a suburban city located near Washington, D.C.
- The area offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with access to various amenities and attractions
- The location provides easy access to public transportation, making it convenient for commuters
Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, with a one-hour lunch break
ASSUMPTION: The corporate office in Silver Spring, MD, offers a creative and collaborative work environment, with easy access to public transportation and various amenities.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening with the HR department
- In-person or virtual interview with the Marketing Manager and a member of the Marketing team
- Final interview with the Marketing Director
Key Assessment Areas:
- Portfolio and work samples demonstrating graphic design skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solving abilities and creativity
- Understanding of marketing principles and strategies
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your graphic design skills and experience managing multiple projects with strict deadlines
- Include a portfolio or work samples that demonstrate your ability to create high-quality marketing materials
- Prepare for behavioral and scenario-based interview questions that focus on your problem-solving abilities, creativity, and communication skills
ATS Keywords: Graphic Design, Marketing, Adobe Creative Cloud, HTML5, CSS, Print Production, Time Management, Communication, Teamwork, Problem Solving, Creativity, Project Management
ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role is typical for a mid-sized retail company, with a focus on assessing the candidate's graphic design skills, communication abilities, and problem-solving abilities.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Cloud (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop)
- Responsive HTML5 and CSS
- Print production software and equipment
- Email marketing platforms (e.g., Mailchimp, Constant Contact)
- Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
- Analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics)
ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role are standard for a graphic designer and marketing professional, with a focus on Adobe Creative Cloud, responsive web design, and digital marketing platforms.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Creativity and innovation
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Customer focus and excellence
- Integrity and respect
- Accountability and continuous improvement
Work Style:
- Creative and collaborative work environment
- Fast-paced and dynamic marketing and design team
- Opportunities for professional growth and development
- Focus on customer satisfaction and excellence
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a strong background in graphic design and experience managing multiple projects with strict deadlines?
- Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and able to meet tight deadlines?
- Do you have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with various teams?
- Are you passionate about staying up-to-date with design, visual marketing, and e-commerce trends?
ASSUMPTION: Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing values creativity, collaboration, and customer focus, with a work style that emphasizes professional growth and development. The ideal candidate will be a strong communicator, comfortable working in a fast-paced environment, and passionate about staying up-to-date with industry trends.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple projects with strict deadlines can be stressful and time-consuming
- Working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment may require flexibility and adaptability
- The role may require occasional overtime or weekend work to meet project deadlines
- Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing is a mid-sized company, which may limit opportunities for career advancement compared to larger organizations
ASSUMPTION: The potential challenges of this role include managing multiple projects with strict deadlines, working in a fast-paced environment, and limited career advancement opportunities compared to larger organizations.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to a Marketing & Design Specialist or a Graphic Designer & Marketing Coordinator position, with a focus on creating marketing materials and managing marketing campaigns
- Compared to other retail companies, Plaza Artist Materials & Picture Framing offers a wide range of products and services, with a focus on art supplies and custom framing
- Career paths for this role may include advancement to a Senior Graphic Designer, Marketing Manager, or similar positions within the marketing and design department
ASSUMPTION: This role is similar to other marketing and design positions within the retail industry, with a focus on creating marketing materials and managing marketing campaigns. Career paths for this role may include advancement to senior-level positions within the marketing and design department.
📝 Sample Projects
- Designing and producing promotional flyers, store signage, and other marketing materials for an upcoming art supply sale
- Managing the print production process, including working with print vendors, estimating costs, and coordinating timelines
- Editing and proofreading content for all marketing communications and collateral, ensuring brand consistency and accuracy
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and tasks required for the Graphic Designer & Marketing Associate role, with a focus on creating high-quality marketing materials and managing marketing campaigns effectively.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Marketing and Web teams?
- How does the company support the professional growth and development of its employees?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does the company measure the success of its marketing campaigns, and what metrics are most important?
- What is the company's approach to work-life balance, and how does it support employees in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?
ASSUMPTION: These key questions focus on understanding the team structure, professional growth opportunities, priorities, and work-life balance, providing valuable insights into the role and the company culture.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your graphic design skills and experience managing multiple projects with strict deadlines
- Include a portfolio or work samples that demonstrate your ability to create high-quality marketing materials
- Prepare for behavioral and scenario-based interview questions that focus on your problem-solving abilities, creativity, and communication skills
- Follow up with the HR department one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
