What the job is

A well-known e-commerce, gifting, and retail company in Johannesburg, Gauteng, is hiring an experienced R&D Print and Production Designer. This role involves turning creative ideas into real, manufacturable products by combining graphic design skills with practical production knowledge.

What you will do

You will check if product and design ideas can actually be made, then suggest the best materials, printing methods, and machinery to use. You will create and adjust artwork so it is ready for production, including preparing print files, die-lines, templates, and cutting guides. You will also develop prototypes and samples to test new ideas and improve production processes. Additionally, you will train production teams, solve quality issues, and keep records of all approved designs and specifications. You will work closely with suppliers, printers, and other teams to ensure smooth production.

What you need

You need a qualification in Graphic Design or equivalent experience, with at least 2 to 3 years of work in graphic design. Strong skills in Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign, are required. You must understand print production, pre-press requirements, and how to prepare production-ready artwork. Experience with die-lines, templates, and different printing processes is essential. Good problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work with physical materials to create prototypes are also important. Experience in product or packaging development, laser cutting, or 3D design would be a plus.

What you will get

The salary for this permanent position is between R380,000 and R420,000 per year, and it is negotiable. You will work in a dynamic environment with opportunities to grow your skills in design and production.