We are looking for an awesome, experienced and confident Production Designer II! This is a new capability for Russell Stover, and the ideal candidate will have a desire to develop processes from the ground up, establish file prep standards within the department, and drive communication with vendors. Being the primary liaison between internal artists and external vendors, the ideal candidate is extremely organized, highly communicative, and reliable. This person has experience in vendor file prep and sample approval. They should have a working knowledge of color management and different packaging finishes and materials. This person should have superior attention to detail and a flexibility to flow to the work, whether it’s file prep for final production or preliminary prototypes. We are looking for someone with a passion for streamlining and establishing department standards that have an impact on the larger organization.

Key responsibilities include:

• Work directly with management and designers to establish file prep standards for vendor submission
• Collaborate with designers to establish design intent
• Review, approve, and route all artwork proofs for design and content accuracy
• Ensure files are consistent and print-ready for both prototypes and final production
• Knowledge of different packaging materials and finishes: corrugate, film, tins, embossing, foil, etc.
• Receive and give valuable feedback on samples from vendors
• Execute layouts/templates with direction from creative team
• Communicate and present file prep efficiencies to the team
• Troubleshoot any issues with artwork
• Work and communicate with vendors directly on file prep and design intent
• Work autonomously, collaboratively and remain flexible to changing priorities
• Input legal/nutrition information to files
• Potential domestic travel to press checks (5-10%)

TO BE CONSIDERED AN APPLICANT FOR THIS POSITION, YOU MUST SHOW HOW YOU MEET THE BASIC QUALIFICATIONS AS OUTLINED IN THE REQUIREMENTS

Basic Qualifications

• Degree in Graphic Design or comparable art based degree
• Minimum 2 years of print production experience,
• Experience managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in establishing file prep standards
• Working knowledge of proofing and color management
• Experience collaborating with designers and vendors to achieve desired look
• Mastery in Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop
• Working knowledge of InDesign, Microsoft Suite

Preferred Qualifications

• CPG experience highly preferred

Company Description
Russell Stover Chocolates is a leader in the manufacturer of boxed chocolates.  The company’s three brands – Russell Stover, Whitman’s and Pangburn’s - are sold throughout the United States in 20+ company-owned retail stores and 70,000 wholesale accounts. After nearly 100 years in operation the company manufactures approximately 100 million pounds of chocolate candies each year in its proud tradition of being “Made in America” and “Handcrafted in Small Batches”.    

In September 2014, Russell Stover Chocolates was acquired by Lindt and Sprungli, the world leader in premium chocolates.   This was the largest acquisition in the history of Lindt and Sprungli which has operations in over 40 countries across the globe.  Russell Stover Chocolates joins sister companies Lindt USA and Ghirardelli to form a powerful confectionery triad in North America.  

Employment by Russell Stover Chocolates is contingent upon I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification, passing the urinalysis drug screen, education verification, and satisfactory reference and background checks.

Russell Stover Chocolates is an EOE/MINORITY/FEMALE/VET/DISABLED  employer. Principals only please.