Chicago Artist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Production Artist

It’s an exciting time to join our growing marketing team!

Highline Warren, a leading national manufacturer and distributor of consumable and maintenance products for the automotive aftermarket, is seeking a talented Production Artist to join our dynamic marketing team.

About Highline Warren:

Formed in 2020 through the strategic combination of Highline Aftermarket and Warren Distribution, Highline Warren boasts an impressive footprint with 20 manufacturing and distribution locations, nearly 1,800 employees, and over 26,000 products serving more than 14,000 customers across North America. As we propel ourselves towards ambitious growth goals, we recognize the value of our people. We actively seek passionate individuals who share our commitment to excellence and collaborative culture.

The Opportunity:

The Production Artist is responsible for transforming approved creative concepts and final artwork into accurate, production-ready deliverables across print, packaging, digital assets, and pre-press output. This role ensures all files align with brand standards, technical specifications, and vendor requirements, maintaining precision in color, layout, typography, and mechanical build. The Production Artist collaborates closely with designers, project managers, external vendors, and contract personnel to uphold quality, consistency, and efficiency throughout the production workflow. This position is remote but candidates must be local to Memphis, Chicago, or Charlotte.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare production-ready artwork: Finalize files for print and packaging with precise layout, color accuracy, typography control, and correct mechanical setup.
• Perform pre-flight checks: Verify color separations, bleeds, crop marks, die lines, resolution, and other technical requirements before release.
• Ensure printer and vendor compliance: Confirm all files meet printer specifications and troubleshoot pre-press or mechanical issues as needed.
• Adapt designs across formats: Modify and extend existing creative across packaging structures, print formats, and digital variations while maintaining brand integrity.
• Review and proof assets: Inspect all files for accuracy, consistency, and error-free execution prior to distribution to internal contributors or external vendors.
• Collaborate with creative partners: Work closely with designers and creative leads to ensure production accuracy while preserving original design intent.
• Manage version control: Organize, label, and archive production files for efficient retrieval, tracking, and long-term asset management.
• Coordinate with vendors and suppliers: Communicate with print vendors, packaging suppliers, and contract personnel to confirm specifications, resolve technical challenges, and ensure smooth production workflows.

Qualifications:

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or related field (or equivalent experience).

5+ years in a production or design role within an agency or in-house creative team, with strong experience in print and packaging production.

Technical Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop).
• Strong understanding of pre-press processes, color management, and print production standards.
• Knowledge of packaging design requirements, die lines, and material specifications.

Soft Skills:

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Familiarity with regulatory compliance for packaging.
• Experience with project management tools and digital asset management systems.

Benefits of Joining Highline Warren:

Highline Warren offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, along with the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. You will be surrounded by a talented team and have the chance to make a significant impact on a growing company.