Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant (Remote)

As a Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant at Poodle Variety, your main responsibilities will include designing and laying out magazine content, managing ad and editorial submissions, and communicating with clients. Additionally, you will adjust photos for print quality, proofread content, and ensure that all production deadlines are met efficiently. This multifaceted role is key to delivering a high-quality show dog magazine.

To apply for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant position at Poodle Variety, candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of graphic design experience. Proficiency in Adobe InDesign and Photoshop is crucial, along with familiarity with Google Sheets, Microsoft Office, and Dropbox. A Mac computer and reliable internet access for high-quality graphics are also required to ensure you can deliver top-notch designs.

The production schedule for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant role at Poodle Variety consists of four issues per year, with specific timelines. Q1 runs from January 15 to mid-March, Q2 from May 1 to mid-June (with training starting on May 1), Q3 from August 1 to mid-September, and Q4 from October 1 to mid-December. You'll be busy throughout the year, ensuring that each issue is completed on time!

The training process for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant at Poodle Variety kicks off via FaceTime on May 1. During this time, you'll get familiar with our specific design guidelines, branding standards, and production workflows. This training is crucial to ensure that you are well-prepared to meet the demands of the job and deliver high-quality work that aligns with our vision.

The salary for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant at Poodle Variety is dependent on experience, meaning that your previous work history and skill level will influence your earnings. It's best to discuss your salary expectations during the interview process, as it will help align your qualifications with our budget and needs.

In your response, highlight specific projects or tasks where you used Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. Discuss how you approached design layouts, edited images, and ensured print quality. Providing examples makes your experience feel tangible and emphasizes your suitability for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant position.

Discuss your time management strategies, such as using project management tools, creating timelines, and scheduling dedicated work hours. Share an example of a time you successfully met a tight deadline while maintaining the quality of your work, which is vital for the role at Poodle Variety.

Describe your proofreading process, which may include checking for typos, ensuring formatting accuracy, and verifying that all visual elements align with the magazine’s branding. Mention any tools or techniques you employ to maintain high quality in your designs before submission.

Explain your approach to receiving feedback, emphasizing open communication and flexibility. Provide an example of how you integrated constructive criticism into your design process, showing your ability to collaborate effectively as a Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant.

Recall a specific project where your design work garnered positive results. Explain your role, the challenges you faced, and how your contributions made a difference. Relating past successes to the expectations of the role at Poodle Variety will strengthen your candidacy.

Share your passion for graphic design and what inspires you. Whether it’s the creative freedom or the chance to tell stories through visuals, convey how your enthusiasm aligns with the values of Poodle Variety and makes you a great fit for their team.

Discuss the methods you use, such as following design blogs, attending workshops, or participating in online communities. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and staying relevant, which is crucial in the evolving design landscape for the Freelance Graphic Designer & Production Assistant position.

Mention the tools and software you utilize for managing communications, such as email, project management platforms, or shared documents. Stress the importance of clear communication, especially while collaborating with clients at Poodle Variety to ensure smooth project execution.

Express your admiration for Poodle Variety’s focus on high-quality content and their unique approach to the dog show community. Relate your personal or professional connection to dogs or magazine publishing, showcasing your genuine interest in the position and what you can bring to the team.

Outline your organizational skills and detail-oriented mindset that would help in managing ad and editorial submissions. Discuss a systematic approach you would take, such as creating spreadsheets for tracking submissions, ensuring timely responses, and communicating clearly with stakeholders involved in the process.