Find the best Graphic Designer Jobs in the UK

Welcome to PrintJobs.co.uk, the dedicated platform for graphic, print and signage graphic designer jobs in the UK print industry. Whether you’re an experienced installer or looking to start your career in large-format graphics and signage, we connect you with top employers across the sector.

Getting Ahead as a Graphic Designer

Whether you’re an experienced graphic designer or taking the next step in your career, PrintJobs.co.uk connects you with top opportunities in the print and signage industry. As a Graphic Designer in Print, you’ll play a vital role in creating and preparing large-format graphics, signage, and displays, ensuring every design is production-ready for flawless print execution. Your expertise in layout design, colour management, and pre-press preparation will bring creative visions to life, delivering impactful visual solutions for brands across the UK. Explore exciting graphic designer jobs today and take your career to the next level!

Here’s what we’ll cover in this article:

1. Whats it like working as a graphic designer in print
2. Salaries as a graphic designer
3. Career progression as a graphic designer
4. Why choose printjobs.co.uk as your search tool
5. Who should apply for a graphic designer job
6. Career resources for graphic designers in print
7. Kickstart your graphic design career

Featured graphic designer jobs

Print Designer

John Lewis & Partners

Creative

3 weeks ago

London, Greater London, England, United Kingdom

Artworker

Just Digital

Creative

3 weeks ago

Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire, England, United Kingdom

As a Graphic Designer in the print industry, success comes from your technical expertise, creativity, and attention to detail. Your ability to design for print, manage files, and ensure flawless production is what brings creative concepts to life. From initial concept to final execution, your work guarantees high-quality visuals that elevate brand presence and engage audiences. Take your career to the next level with exclusive graphic designer jobs at PrintJobs.co.uk.

1. What’s It Like Working as a Graphic Designer in Print?

As a Graphic Designer in the print industry, you play a crucial role in creating and preparing designs for flawless large-format graphics, signage, and print production. Your expertise ensures that every design is print-ready, maintaining brand consistency and delivering high-quality visuals that enhance marketing, retail, and corporate spaces. Whether working on retail branding, exhibitions, vehicle wraps, or packaging, your attention to detail and technical skills bring creative concepts to life.

This role requires a combination of design creativity, precision, and technical knowledge. It’s ideal for individuals who excel in layout design, colour accuracy, and pre-press setup, ensuring every print file is optimised for high-quality production. Let’s explore the key responsibilities and why a career as a Graphic Designer in print is both rewarding and essential in the industry.

Key Responsibilities of a Graphic Designer in Print

As a Graphic Designer in print, you are responsible for ensuring high-quality designs are correctly formatted for production. Your core responsibilities include:

Design Creation and Pre-Press Setup

• Designing for large-format printing, signage, packaging, and branding.
• Ensuring files meet resolution, bleed, and colour profile requirements.
• Formatting and adjusting artwork for various print materials and applications.

Quality Control and Proofing

• Reviewing designs to ensure they align with brand guidelines and client specifications.
• Conducting pre-flight checks to detect errors before production.
• Collaborating with print teams to ensure colour accuracy and material suitability.

Collaboration with Design and Production Teams

• Working alongside project managers, printers, and marketing teams to ensure smooth production.
• Providing feedback on design feasibility, materials, and print limitations.
• Making real-time adjustments to meet production deadlines and print specifications.

Technical Expertise and Problem-Solving

• Adapting designs for different print formats and substrates, including vinyl, acrylic, and foils.
• Troubleshooting common print and pre-press issues, such as colour mismatches and resolution errors.
• Staying updated with the latest print technologies, finishing techniques, and industry trends.

Brand Consistency and Client Requirements

• Ensuring all artwork adheres to brand guidelines, typography, and visual identity standards.
• Communicating with clients and stakeholders to confirm project specifications.
• Preparing mock-ups and digital proofs for approval before final production.

Why a Career as a Graphic Designer in Print is Exciting

A career as a Graphic Designer in print offers the perfect balance of creative design, technical expertise, and professional growth.

Impact and Creativity

• Play a vital role in bringing design concepts to life, ensuring they translate perfectly into print.
• Work on a variety of projects, from retail graphics and event branding to vehicle wraps and packaging.

Diverse Work Environments

• Work across different industries, including advertising, retail, corporate branding, and exhibitions.
• Collaborate with marketing teams, print specialists, and creative agencies to develop eye-catching visuals.

Career Growth and Specialisation

• Expand your expertise in pre-press, colour management, and print production techniques.
• Progress into senior roles such as Senior Graphic Designer, Studio Manager, or Production Lead.
• Develop specialist skills in packaging design, digital print finishing, or sustainable print solutions.

For those who enjoy precision, creativity, and problem-solving, a career as a Graphic Designer in print offers both professional fulfilment and long-term career prospects.

Explore the latest graphic designer jobs at PrintJobs.co.uk and take the next step in your career!

2. Salaries in Graphic Designer Roles in Print

Earning Potential for Graphic Designers in the UK Print Industry

The print industry highly values skilled Graphic Designers, offering competitive salaries that reflect the technical expertise, creativity, and attention to detail required for the role. Whether you are just starting your career or have extensive experience, graphic design for print offers strong earning potential, with opportunities to progress into Senior Graphic Designer, Studio Manager, or Print Production Lead positions.

Salaries for Graphic Designers vary based on experience, location, company size, and the complexity of projects handled. Below is an overview of typical earnings in this dynamic and rewarding career.

Entry-Level Graphic Designer Roles

For those beginning their career as a Graphic Designer in print, entry-level salaries typically range between £20,000 and £28,000 per year.

At this stage, key responsibilities include:

• Designing layouts for print, ensuring correct file formats, resolutions, and colour profiles.
• Making adjustments to typography, branding elements, and visual composition to meet client specifications.
• Learning pre-press processes, including bleed, trapping, and overprint settings.
• Collaborating with printers and production teams to ensure artwork is ready for print.

Many entry-level Graphic Designers gain valuable experience working in design agencies, print studios, or signage companies, developing skills that lead to mid-level roles.

Mid-Level Graphic Designer Roles

With a few years of experience, mid-level Graphic Designers can expect to earn between £28,000 and £40,000 per year, often with additional bonuses or overtime for meeting deadlines.

Responsibilities at this level include:

• Managing print-ready artwork for a variety of materials, including large-format graphics, signage, and packaging.
• Ensuring colour accuracy and quality control, working with different substrates and print techniques.
• Collaborating with creative teams, marketing departments, and production staff to refine artwork.
• Solving print and layout issues, ensuring designs translate effectively from digital to physical media.

At this stage, Graphic Designers refine their expertise in pre-press, print workflows, and branding, positioning themselves for senior design roles.

Senior Graphic Designers and Studio Managers

Experienced Senior Graphic Designers or Studio Managers working on high-profile print projects can earn between £40,000 and £55,000+ per year, depending on their expertise and project complexity.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading design teams, overseeing workflow efficiency and quality control.
• Managing complex print projects, including bespoke signage, exhibition graphics, and packaging.
• Consulting on colour management, ensuring brand consistency across different print formats.
• Handling deadlines and working closely with production teams to optimise print accuracy and efficiency.

Graphic Designers with expertise in packaging, digital finishing, 3D rendering, or sustainable print materials can command higher salaries and work on premium projects.

Factors That Influence Salaries

Several key factors impact earning potential for Graphic Designers in print:

• Location – Graphic Designers in London and major cities often earn higher salaries due to demand.
• Project Complexity – Working on high-end materials, bespoke designs, and specialised print finishing can increase earning potential.
• Company Size – Larger agencies, print firms, and branding studios may offer higher salaries, better benefits, and career growth opportunities.
• Specialist Knowledge – Skills in colour management, packaging artwork, or variable data printing can significantly boost salary levels.
• Experience Level – The more hands-on experience you have in pre-press, layout optimisation, and print production, the higher your potential earnings.

How to Increase Your Earning Potential as a Graphic Designer

To advance in your graphic design career and boost your salary, consider these strategies:

• Gain Specialist Certifications – Training in colour management, large-format print production, or advanced pre-press techniques can set you apart.
• Stay Up to Date – Keep informed about the latest design software, print technologies, and sustainable printing methods.
• Develop Leadership Skills – Senior Graphic Designers and Studio Managers earn more and have greater job stability.
• Expand Your Network – Build connections with design agencies, print companies, and industry professionals to access better opportunities.
• Master Industry Software – Expertise in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), RIP software, and CAD tools can make you a highly sought-after candidate.

Take the Next Step in Your Graphic Design Career

Whether you’re stepping into a Graphic Designer role or looking to specialise in high-end print production, PrintJobs.co.uk connects you with the best opportunities in the industry.

Explore the latest graphic designer jobs today and take your career to the next level!

3. Career Progression as a Graphic Designer in Print

A career as a Graphic Designer in the print industry offers exciting opportunities for growth, specialisation, and leadership. Whether you’re starting in a junior role or looking to advance into senior positions, this field provides a clear pathway for career development, with opportunities in pre-press, production management, and creative leadership across large-format print, signage, and packaging.

Starting Your Career as a Graphic Designer in Print

Most professionals begin their careers in junior graphic design or pre-press assistant roles, gradually taking on more responsibilities in layout design, file preparation, and print production workflows. Early-stage roles focus on:

• Creating print-ready designs, ensuring technical accuracy and colour consistency.
• Collaborating with designers and print teams to refine layouts for large-format and signage printing.
• Learning pre-press processes, including bleed, trapping, and overprinting.
• Checking proofs and ensuring quality control before production.

This foundational experience builds technical skills and industry knowledge, setting the stage for career advancement.

Mid-Level Graphic Designer Roles

With three to seven years of experience, professionals typically progress into mid-level roles with greater autonomy and responsibility. These roles include:

Graphic Designer

• Designing large-format graphics, signage, and exhibition displays for production.
• Ensuring brand consistency by maintaining correct colours, fonts, and print specifications.
• Collaborating with design teams and print technicians to solve technical challenges.

Senior Graphic Designer

• Managing multiple print and branding projects across advertising, retail, and corporate sectors.
• Working closely with clients and production teams to adapt artwork for different print formats.
• Overseeing proofing, quality control, and pre-press setup for high-value projects.

Pre-Press Specialist

• Developing pre-flight processes to eliminate print errors and improve production efficiency.
• Handling advanced colour management, ensuring consistency across multiple substrates.
• Troubleshooting complex artwork issues, such as scaling, resolution, and material compatibility.

Senior Graphic Designer and Studio Management Roles

For those with extensive experience, career progression can lead to senior strategic roles such as:

Studio Manager

• Leading design and pre-press teams, ensuring seamless project execution.
• Managing workflow efficiency, production deadlines, and print accuracy.
• Overseeing quality control standards across all print outputs.

Production Manager

• Supervising large-scale print production, ensuring artwork is optimised for efficient output.
• Managing budgets, resources, and print scheduling.
• Implementing new print technologies and automation tools to enhance efficiency.

Creative Operations Lead

• Working at the intersection of design, production, and business strategy.
• Consulting on best practices for artwork preparation, colour management, and material selection.
• Developing process improvements to streamline production for complex projects.

These senior roles require a strong understanding of print workflows, leadership skills, and technical expertise.

Specialist Career Paths in Graphic Design for Print

Beyond traditional studio roles, Graphic Designers can specialise in high-demand areas to expand their career opportunities:

• Packaging Design and Pre-Press – Creating retail packaging, labels, and structural designs for print production.
• Large-Format and Environmental Graphics – Designing billboards, vehicle wraps, and exhibition displays.
• Digital and Variable Data Print – Working with automated layouts, versioning, and data-driven printing.
• Sustainable Print and Eco-Friendly Materials – Focusing on environmentally responsible print production.

Developing expertise in specialist areas can lead to higher salaries and unique opportunities in branding, marketing, and print production.

Expanding Beyond Graphic Design: Additional Career Paths

A background in graphic design for print provides valuable transferable skills that open doors to related career paths:

• Project Management – Overseeing print production timelines, budgets, and supplier coordination.
• Print and Packaging Consulting – Advising businesses on best practices for print efficiency and design execution.
• Training and Mentorship – Developing new talent in print design and pre-press processes.
• Freelance or Business Ownership – Starting a print-focused design agency or pre-press consultancy.

By staying informed about emerging print technologies, automation, and sustainability trends, Graphic Designers can future-proof their careers and explore high-value opportunities in the industry.

How to Accelerate Your Career as a Graphic Designer in Print

To stay competitive and expand your career opportunities, consider:

• Mastering Industry Software – Stay proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign), RIP software, and CAD tools.
• Gaining Certifications – Training in colour management, digital finishing, and advanced pre-press techniques can boost career prospects.
• Networking with Print and Design Professionals – Attend trade shows, manufacturer training sessions, and industry events.
• Staying Updated on Print Innovations – Keep informed about sustainable materials, digital print advancements, and automation.

Take the Next Step in Your Graphic Design Career

Whether you’re stepping into a Graphic Designer role or aiming for a studio leadership position, PrintJobs.co.uk connects you with the best opportunities in the print industry.

Explore the latest graphic designer jobs today and take your career to the next level!

4. Why Choose PrintJobs.co.uk for Graphic Designer Jobs in Print?

When searching for your next Graphic Designer role in the print industry, you need a platform that understands your creative expertise, technical skills, and career aspirations. At PrintJobs.co.uk, we specialise in connecting talented professionals with the best opportunities in large-format printing, signage, packaging, and branding. Whether you’re looking to step up in your career or secure a senior graphic designer position, we make your job search seamless and rewarding.

Specialist Job Listings for Graphic Designers

Unlike general job boards, PrintJobs.co.uk is dedicated exclusively to the print and design sector. Our industry-focused listings ensure that every job opportunity is relevant to your skills, whether you specialise in branding, packaging design, large-format graphics, or pre-press production.

Our curated listings include roles such as:

• Graphic Designer – Creating print-ready designs for signage, packaging, and advertising projects.
• Senior Graphic Designer – Managing complex branding and print projects, ensuring quality control and creative execution.
• Pre-Press Specialist – Overseeing colour management, proofing, and pre-flight processes to optimise print accuracy.
• Studio Manager – Leading design teams, coordinating projects, and ensuring efficient print production workflows.

By focusing on this niche industry, we save you time and connect you with high-quality job opportunities that align with your experience and career goals.

Access to Leading UK Employers

We partner with top print companies, design agencies, signage specialists, and branding firms across the UK to bring you the best Graphic Designer jobs. These employers trust us to connect them with professionals who can create visually striking designs, maintain brand consistency, and ensure seamless print execution.

Whether you’re looking to join a creative studio, a large-scale print production company, or a specialist branding agency, our platform offers tailored opportunities. From freelance design projects to full-time studio roles, we help you find the perfect fit.

Support to Advance Your Career

At PrintJobs.co.uk, we go beyond job listings—we help you stand out in a competitive industry.

• CV Optimisation – Expert advice on showcasing your graphic design skills, software expertise, and industry experience.
• Portfolio Development – Guidance on presenting your best branding, large-format designs, and detailed pre-press work.
• Interview Preparation – Practical tips to help you demonstrate your technical knowledge, creative problem-solving skills, and industry awareness.

Our personalised support ensures that you present yourself as a top candidate, helping you secure the best opportunities and grow your career in graphic design for print.

Advanced Job Search Tools

Finding the right role has never been easier. Our advanced search features allow you to filter opportunities by:

• Location – Find Graphic Designer roles near you or explore nationwide opportunities.
• Salary – Identify positions that match your earning expectations.
• Experience Level – Whether you’re a junior, mid-level, or senior Graphic Designer, we have jobs suited to your expertise.
• Contract Type – Search for full-time, part-time, or freelance Graphic Designer roles.

Our user-friendly platform ensures a smooth and efficient job search experience, helping you find roles that align with your skills and career goals.

Stay Ahead with Job Alerts

Never miss an opportunity with our job alert feature. Set your preferences, and we’ll notify you when a Graphic Designer role matching your criteria becomes available.

This proactive approach keeps you informed about the latest openings, ensuring that you stay ahead of the competition and never miss out on a great opportunity.

Take Your Graphic Design Career to the Next Level

Choosing PrintJobs.co.uk means partnering with a platform that truly understands the unique skills and demands of Graphic Designers in the print industry. From exclusive job listings and access to top employers to career support and advanced search tools, we are here to help you find your next Graphic Designer role.

Start your next career move today with PrintJobs.co.uk!

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5. Who Should Apply for a Graphic Designer Role in Print?

Is a Career as a Graphic Designer Right for You?

A career as a Graphic Designer in the print industry is perfect for professionals who excel in creative design, technical precision, and problem-solving. Whether you’re designing large-format graphics, packaging, signage, or branding materials, Graphic Designers play a crucial role in ensuring high-quality visual execution for print.

If you have a strong understanding of design software, print processes, and pre-press production, a career as a Graphic Designer in print could be the ideal fit.

What Makes a Strong Graphic Designer?

Whether you’re just starting out or already have years of experience, key skills and attributes contribute to success in this role.

Experience in Print Design and Production

Strong candidates for Graphic Designer roles often have experience in:

• File Preparation – Ensuring designs are correctly formatted with bleed, crop marks, and colour profiles.
• Pre-Press and Proofing – Checking files for resolution, overprinting, and trapping issues before production.
• Print Material Knowledge – Understanding vinyl, acrylic, foils, rigid boards, and other substrates used in signage and large-format printing.
• Layout Adjustments – Adapting designs for different print formats, sizes, and specifications.

If you have experience in these areas or are eager to develop these skills, a Graphic Designer role provides strong career prospects.

Technical Expertise and Quality Control

Graphic Designers must ensure all print files meet industry standards and client expectations by:

• Checking and Correcting Artwork Issues – Identifying colour mismatches, alignment errors, or incorrect file settings.
• Ensuring Accurate Colour Management – Working with CMYK, spot colours, and ICC profiles to maintain consistency across different prints.
• Understanding Print Techniques – Preparing files for digital, litho, screen, or large-format printing.
• Optimising Artwork for Different Materials – Ensuring designs are print-ready for glass, metal, wood, and other surfaces.

A strong technical foundation and eye for detail ensure high-quality print production and client satisfaction.

Collaboration, Communication, and Workflow Coordination

Graphic Designers work closely with clients, production teams, and marketing professionals. Key responsibilities include:

• Liaising with Branding Teams – Ensuring designs meet brand guidelines and are formatted correctly for print.
• Coordinating with Print Technicians – Adjusting files based on print specifications and press requirements.
• Managing Client Expectations – Communicating clearly about design modifications, deadlines, and technical constraints.
• Ensuring Workflow Efficiency – Managing multiple projects and meeting tight production schedules.

Strong teamwork and communication skills help streamline print production and ensure seamless project execution.

Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Every print project presents unique challenges, requiring Graphic Designers to adapt and think critically. Problem-solving skills include:

• Adjusting to Different Print Processes – Understanding the differences between digital, screen, and litho printing.
• Troubleshooting Design Issues – Quickly resolving problems related to scaling, resolution, or font compatibility.
• Handling Last-Minute Changes – Making real-time adjustments to meet client requests or printer specifications.
• Optimising File Efficiency – Reducing file sizes and processing times without compromising quality.

Being adaptable ensures consistent, high-quality results across a variety of print projects.

Understanding the Print and Branding Industry

A successful Graphic Designer should have, or be willing to develop, expertise in:

• Large-Format Printing and Signage – Designing for banners, exhibition displays, and retail graphics.
• Packaging and Dielines – Setting up files for cartons, labels, and POS displays.
• Sustainable Print Solutions – Working with eco-friendly materials and sustainable printing techniques.

Industry expertise enhances design quality and opens up career opportunities in specialist areas.

Who Can Apply?

Graphic design for print is suited to professionals at various career stages:

• Entry-Level Graphic Designers – Start as a Junior Designer, learning layout design, colour management, and pre-press setup.
• Mid-Level Professionals – Progress to Graphic Designer or Senior Designer roles, managing branding projects, quality control, and pre-press workflows.
• Experienced Specialists – Advance into Studio Manager, Production Lead, or Creative Director roles, overseeing large-scale print design and creative teams.

Start Your Career as a Graphic Designer in Print

Whether you’re starting out in print design or looking to advance into senior roles, a career in graphic design for print offers long-term opportunities for growth and specialisation. From retail branding and exhibition displays to packaging and signage, the demand for skilled Graphic Designers continues to grow.

Find your next Graphic Designer role today with PrintJobs.co.uk – the UK’s leading platform for print and signage industry careers.

6. The Best Career Resources for Graphic Designers in Print

A career as a Graphic Designer in the print industry is both creative and technical, requiring precision, problem-solving skills, and expertise in layout design, pre-press processes, and print production. Whether you specialise in large-format graphics, packaging, branding materials, or signage, Graphic Designers play a vital role in ensuring flawless print execution.

If you have a passion for design accuracy, colour management, and delivering high-quality visuals, a career as a Graphic Designer in print could be the perfect fit.

What Makes a Strong Graphic Designer?

Success in print design requires a combination of technical expertise, creativity, and industry knowledge. Whether you’re stepping into a Graphic Designer role for the first time or looking to advance, the following skills are essential.

Technical Expertise and Print Design Preparation

A strong Graphic Designer has experience in:

• File Setup for Print – Ensuring files include bleed, crop marks, and correct resolution.
• Pre-Press and Proofing – Checking artwork for colour accuracy, trapping, and overprint settings.
• Working with Different Substrates – Preparing artwork for vinyl, acrylic, rigid boards, and packaging materials.
• Quality Control – Ensuring all artwork meets brand guidelines and production requirements.

A solid understanding of print techniques and production processes ensures smooth workflow and high-quality output.

Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Every print project presents unique challenges, requiring Graphic Designers to be adaptable and detail-oriented. Key problem-solving skills include:

• Adjusting Artwork for Different Print Methods – Modifying designs for digital, screen, or litho printing.
• Troubleshooting File Issues – Resolving problems related to image resolution, font embedding, or scaling.
• Managing Last-Minute Changes – Making quick adjustments to meet client or printer specifications.
• Optimising File Sizes – Reducing processing time while maintaining print quality.

Being proactive and solution-focused helps ensure seamless production and excellent final results.

Collaboration, Communication, and Workflow Management

Graphic Designers work closely with clients, printers, and production teams. Strong communication skills include:

• Liaising with Branding Teams – Ensuring designs are print-ready and formatted correctly.
• Coordinating with Print Technicians – Making necessary adjustments based on printer specifications.
• Managing Client Expectations – Communicating clearly about deadlines, revisions, and technical constraints.
• Ensuring Workflow Efficiency – Balancing multiple projects while meeting tight production schedules.

Strong teamwork and communication skills ensure a smooth transition from design to print production.

Understanding the Print and Branding Industry

A successful Graphic Designer should have, or be willing to develop, expertise in:

• Large-Format Printing and Signage – Designing for billboards, retail displays, and vehicle wraps.
• Packaging and POS Artwork – Setting up dielines, folds, and structural layouts.
• Sustainable Print Solutions – Understanding eco-friendly materials and environmentally responsible print production.

Industry knowledge enhances design quality, print efficiency, and career progression.

Who Can Become a Graphic Designer in Print?

Print design is an excellent career path for professionals at various stages of experience:

• Entry-Level Graphic Designers – Start as a Junior Designer, learning layout design, colour management, and pre-press setup.
• Mid-Level Professionals – Progress to Graphic Designer or Senior Designer roles, managing branding projects, quality control, and pre-press workflows.
• Experienced Specialists – Advance into Studio Manager, Production Lead, or Creative Director roles, overseeing large-scale print design and creative teams.

Start Your Career as a Graphic Designer in Print

Whether you’re stepping into graphic design for print or looking to advance into senior roles, this field offers long-term opportunities for growth and specialisation. From branding and signage to packaging and large-format print, skilled Graphic Designers are in high demand.

Explore the latest Graphic Designer jobs today at PrintJobs.co.uk – the UK’s leading platform for careers in print, signage, and large-format graphics.

7. Kickstart your career as a graphic designer in print or signage today

Your next career move is just a few clicks away. Browse our latest graphic designer job listings to discover exciting opportunities with top employers in the printing industry. Whether you’re seeking full-time, part-time, or freelance roles, PrintJobs.co.uk has you covered.

Want to get ahead in Pre-press? Take a look at our Career Boosting Guide for the Graphic Designer.

PrintJobs.co.uk – The home of opportunity in print!