Graphic Designer (Conceptual & Technical)

Job Title: Graphic Designer (Conceptual & Technical)

Location: Houston, Texas

Type: Full-time | Onsite | Manufacturing Facility

Hardman Signs is a national leader in architectural signage and graphics. We design, manufacture, install, and service high-impact signage solutions for commercial properties, multi-family housing, healthcare facilities, parking garages, and more. We partner with leading construction companies and architectural design firms to bring signage visions to life—from concept to installation.

We are seeking a creative and technically-minded Graphic Designer to join our Houston team. This role requires a unique blend of high-level artistic concepting and a deep understanding of sign manufacturing and installation. The ideal candidate isn't just a digital artist; they are a structural designer who understands how to translate a creative vision into a buildable, high-quality architectural product. This is a high-priority, rapid-hire position to support our expanding design department and production offices.

Job Summary

This role is responsible for the full lifecycle of the design process, from initial client ideation and conceptual branding to the creation of precise, fabrication-ready shop drawings. The Graphic Designer will collaborate closely with the Art Director, Sales team, and Production department to ensure all designs are visually impactful, structurally sound, and compliant with all local codes and ADA standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Conceptual Design & Ideation: Develop original visual identities, wayfinding systems, and signage concepts that meet client brand standards and architectural aesthetics.
• Technical Shop Drawings (Primary Duty): Translate concepts into detailed, scaled shop drawings with precise material callouts, dimensions, mounting details, and electrical specifications for fabrication.
• Manufacturing Synergy: Maintain a thorough understanding of sign construction methods. Ensure all files are optimized for production on CNC routers, ZUND cutters, large-format printers, and laser etchers.
• Project Lifecycle Management: Manage timing and deliverables across multiple competing projects, moving work independently from initial bid sketches through final documentation.
• Regulatory Compliance: Expertly apply ADA signage requirements and local municipal zoning/permit codes to all design packages.
• Field Engagement: Travel up to 25% for site walks and field surveys to perform measurements and assess architectural conditions to ensure installation feasibility.
• Quality & Safety Oversight: Review technical specifications in files to prevent equipment failure or material waste, ensuring a "safety-first" handoff to the production floor.

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Design with a minimum of 3 years of sign-industry experience OR a High School Diploma/GED with 7+ years of sign shop design experience.
• Expert-level proficiency in CorelDRAW Graphics Suite and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Demonstrated experience in creating technical shop drawings and "buildable" sign layouts.

Preferred:

• Prior experience with CAD software (AutoCAD/ArtiosCAD) or 3D rendering tools (3dsMax/SketchUp).
• Knowledge of sign-specific hardware, LED illumination types, and mounting substrates.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
• Aflac supplemental plans (Disability, Accident, Cancer, Hospital coverage)
• Opportunity to work with a growing team in a creative, entrepreneurial environment.