Senior Graphic Designer

Job DetailsJob Location: Hardman Signs - Houston, TX 77086Job Title: Senior Graphic Designer 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 Senior Graphic Designer to serve as a technical and creative anchor for our Houston design team. The ideal candidate brings a "specialized layer" of expertise, capable of leading major projects (such as medical campuses) while mentoring junior design staff to ensure long-term departmental growth. Job Summary The Senior Graphic Designer oversees the full lifecycle of the design process, with a heavy emphasis on large-scale wayfinding and high-level conceptualization. This role acts as a bridge between client vision and technical execution, ensuring all designs are visually elite, structurally buildable, and compliant with all local codes and ADA standards. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Strategic Wayfinding & UX: Lead the development of comprehensive wayfinding systems for complex environments, ensuring intuitive navigation and high-impact visual communication. Senior Technical Oversight: Translate complex architectural concepts into precise, fabrication-ready shop drawings. Review and approve technical specifications for material callouts, mounting, and electrical requirements. Mentorship & Leadership: Serve as a technical resource and mentor for junior and mid-level designers. Assist in establishing design standards, workflow efficiencies, and best practices for the department. Manufacturing & Engineering Synergy: Maintain an expert-level understanding of sign construction. Optimize complex files for CNC routers, Zund cutters, and large-format production while minimizing material waste. Project Leadership: Independently manage the highest-priority accounts, moving projects from initial bid/discovery through final technical documentation with minimal oversight. Regulatory & ADA Mastery: Serve as the internal subject matter expert on ADA compliance, municipal zoning, and permit requirements for all design packages. Field Engagement: Lead site walks and field surveys (up to 25%) to assess architectural conditions and ensure installation feasibility for high-complexity projects. QualificationsEducation and Experience Required Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Architecture, or Fine Arts (MFA preferred) with 10+ years of sign-industry experience; OR 15+ years of specialized experience in the Houston signage market. Software Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in CorelDRAW, Adobe Creative Suite, and technical design software. Portfolio: Must demonstrate a deep portfolio of "buildable" architectural signage and large-scale wayfinding projects. Preferred Qualifications Experience with 3D rendering and environmental graphics tools. Background in mentoring junior staff or leading design workflows. Deep knowledge of LED illumination, specialized substrates, and structural mounting. What We Offer Competitive Salary: Commensurate with senior-level experience. Benefits: 401(k) with company match, PTO, and comprehensive Medical/Dental/Vision. Growth: Opportunity to shape the long-term design strategy and succession plan of a national industry leader.