What are the responsibilities and job description for the Graphic Production Specialist position at Heritage Exposition Services?
The Graphic Production Specialist is responsible for producing, finishing, and preparing signage and graphics for trade shows, corporate events, and internal needs across Heritage’s branches. This position involves large/grand-format printing, laminating, mounting, trimming, and packing graphics for shipping while maintaining high-quality standards and efficiency.
Additionally, the Graphic Production Specialist serves as the Graphics Lead on show site as needed—overseeing onsite graphics installation, collaborating with foremen and account teams, and troubleshooting issues in real time to ensure brand consistency and project success.
Reports to: National Graphic Production Manager
Key Responsibilities & Duties
Primary Responsibilities
- Operate and maintain large-format roll-to-roll and flatbed printers (e.g., HP, Roland, Vutek), RIP software, and finishing equipment.
- Trim, laminate, mount, and package graphic materials for shipping while maintaining accuracy and production quality.
- Prepare digitally printed rolls and apply graphics to panels and substrates.
- Provide quality control at key stages of the production process, ensuring final output meets project specifications.
- Follow graphic proofs and schematics for fabrication, layout, and application.
- Execute file prep and review pre-flight details prior to production.
- Maintain accurate documentation and manifest panels and packages for shipping.
- Communicate with internal teams (Pre-Press, Project Management, Fabrication) to ensure alignment on print requirements and timelines.
- Manage material tracking, report shortages, and communicate reorders to Purchasing.
- Stay current on emerging tools and best practices; support continuous improvement initiatives.
Additional Responsibilities
- Act as Graphics Lead on-site, including:
- Installing and applying graphics during move-in and throughout the event.
- Collaborating with the production manager and foreman to lead onsite graphic deployment.
- Managing all graphic-related issues on-site and escalating when needed.
- Reviewing show books, floorplans, schematics, and proofs prior to site arrival.
- Ensuring consistency in branding, quality, and installation.
- Cross-train in other areas of the Creative Production Department.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and safe shop environment.
- Train and mentor new team members in best practices and equipment use.
- Perform general warehouse tasks and support logistics during load-out and shipping.
- Participate in team meetings and contribute ideas for improving processes and output.
This position is full-time and in-person, requiring on-site support at trade show events, including overnight travel and weekend/extended work hours based on event schedules.
Frequent sitting, standing, walking, typing, grasping, and repetitive hand motion. Occasional bending, reaching, twisting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and lifting of up to 50 lbs.
Heritage Exposition Services is a DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE and requires pre-employment drug and background screenings.
Required:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- 0–3 years’ experience in large-format printing and finishing (substrate application, vinyl weeding, taping, trimming, etc.).
- Familiarity with roll-to-roll and flatbed printer operation.
- Proficiency in:
- Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator – basic preferred)
- Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
- Google Docs and Sheets
- Ability to read and interpret schematics and scaled drawings.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Must be self-motivated with attention to detail and ability to multitask under tight deadlines.
- Valid driver’s license and willingness to travel when needed.
Preferred:
- Experience with RIP software and pre-flight file prep.
- Graphic design or prepress/layout background.
- Experience working in a trade show or events environment.
- Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
- Retirement Plan (401k)
- Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
- Training & Development
Heritage Exposition Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected status under applicable laws. All employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.
