About Us
Axe Media Group is a Markham-based print, signage, branding, and event production company. We work with corporate, social event, and business clients on projects including large format printing, signs, displays, vinyl graphics, event branding, custom fabrication, promotional products, and other print-related solutions.
We are looking for a Graphic Design & Production Assistant Manager to join our team. This is a hands-on role that combines graphic design, prepress, large format production, finishing, fabrication, inventory support, client communication, and general production coordination.
The ideal candidate is creative, organized, detail-oriented, practical, and comfortable working in a fast-paced production environment. Since we work heavily in the events industry, flexibility is important. Some periods may be slower (lesser working hours), while others can be extremely busy with tight deadlines and last-minute requests (longer working hours).
Key Responsibilities
- Create designs, layouts, digital proofs, and production-ready files.
- Review client-supplied artwork for sizing, resolution, bleed, colour, and production accuracy.
- Prepare production/work sheets with job details, materials, deadlines, finishing requirements, and installation notes.
- Follow up with clients by email or phone when needed regarding proofs, approvals, artwork questions, timelines, or project details.
- Operate large format printers, laminators, cutters, and related production equipment.
- Assist with printing, laminating, mounting, trimming, weeding, masking, packaging, and general finishing.
- Clean, maintain, and care for printers, laminators, tools, and production equipment.
- Help fabricate signs, displays, graphics, and custom print-related pieces when needed.
- Assist with custom builds, basic tool work, and installation/removal support when required.
- Help organize projects based on deadlines, priority levels, and urgency.
- Monitor materials, inks, media, vinyl, substrates, and production supplies.
- Troubleshoot production issues and help find practical solutions.
- Keep the production area clean, organized, and efficient.
Qualifications & Assets
- Minimum 2-3+ years of experience in the sign, print, graphics, or large format production industry preferred.
- Experience with graphic design, prepress, and preparing files for print production.
- Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite, especially Illustrator, Photoshop, and/or InDesign.
- Experience operating large format printers, laminators, cutters, or similar equipment is an asset.
- Experience with Mimaki printers and RasterLink RIP software is ideal, but not mandatory.
- Knowledge of vinyl, large format print materials, substrates, and finishing methods is preferred.
- Experience with fabrication, custom builds, tools, sign installation, or vinyl installation is a strong asset.
- Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle are an asset for site visits, installations, or removals.
- Working at Heights training is an asset, but not mandatory.
Skills & Requirements
- Strong attention to detail and quality control.
- Organized and able to manage time, deadlines, and multiple priorities.
- Strong problem-solving skills with a practical, hands-on mindset.
- Able to work independently and take initiative.
- Clear communication skills when working with clients, suppliers, and team members.
- Comfortable working with tools, materials, equipment, and large format print products.
- Must be able to lift between 30-50 lbs when needed.
- Must be comfortable standing, moving, bending, lifting, and working hands-on in a production environment.
- Willingness to learn, adapt, and grow with the company.
Availability
General working hours are Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM. Flexibility is required during busy periods, including possible early mornings, late nights, and weekends.
The right candidate must be able to adapt to changing deadlines, last-minute requests, and fast-moving project requirements.
What We Offer
- Competitive hourly wage of $21-$25 per hour, based on experience and skill level.
- Full-time, permanent position with a general Monday to Friday schedule.
- Flexible work environment, with flexibility expected in return during busy periods.
- Compensation for approved work-related travel costs.
- Dynamic, creative, and energetic work environment.
- Opportunity to work on unique corporate, social, and event-based projects.
- Potential to grow with the company, annual performance bonus, vacation days, sick days, and training to help you adapt to our workflow, equipment, and production standards.
Ideal Candidate
The ideal candidate enjoys both creative and hands-on work. You should be comfortable preparing artwork and production files, while also helping with printing, finishing, fabrication, organization, installation and general production support.
A handy person who enjoys building, fixing, or figuring things out would be a major bonus in this role.
How to Apply
Please submit your resume along with any relevant portfolio, work samples, or examples of design/production projects you have worked on.
Pay: $21.00-$25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Flexible schedule
- On-site parking
- Paid time off
Ability to commute/relocate:
- Markham, ON L3R 0H7: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Application question(s):
- Do you have daily access to a vehicle?
- Are you comfortable with flexible weekly hours?
(This role may vary depending on workload. Some weeks may be approximately 20–30 hours, while busier weeks may require 30–50 hours.)
- Do you know how to use Adobe Suite software? (e.g. Illustrator, Photoshop)
- Do you have minimum 2+ years of production experience with large format printing?
Language:
Licence/Certification:
- Driving Licence (required)
Work Location: In person