If you’re interested in graphic design or are currently pursuing a degree in this field, you probably wonder what day-to-day life on the job is like. Of course, you’ll be creating designs for your business and maybe even working with a variety of clients, but there’s a lot more to being a graphic designer than just being great at your craft. Take a closer look at what graphic designers do every day and what equipment they likely use in their jobs.
Responsibilities
A graphic designer’s main function is to be the creative mind of an organization. You could design logos, marketing materials and web elements for your company. Anything that needs a graphical representation will likely go to your desk.
Aside from designing, you may have to take part in creative meetings, report to a direct supervisor (this could be the marketing, advertising or public relations manager) and accept responsibility for the success of your designs. Depending on the size of your organization, you might also be responsible for purchasing the supplies and programs you need to function in your role.
Equipment
You’ll likely work with a variety of different equipment in your job. It’s important to know how your equipment works and how to replace things, such as the metal blades or ink cartridges in a commercial printer. Those printers will be the means by which your designs come to life, so keeping them in working order is important. Again, depending on the size of your organization, you might be the sole person responsible for using and maintaining an industrial printer, vinyl press or binding machine.
Graphic designers have dynamic roles within the companies they work for. Your job will likely be more than just creating images on your desktop, so be prepared to act as part of a team and learn how your equipment works.
