Junior Graphic Designer – Apparel Buying

YM Inc. was founded on the strength of a single retail store in the heart of downtown Toronto in 1975, under the name Stitches. Today we are one of North America’s leading apparel retailers operating over 750 stores across Canada and the United States under the following banners: Stitches, Urban Planet, Urban Behavior, Sirens, Forever 21, Urban Kids, Suzy Shier, Le Chateau, Bluenotes, Aeropostale, Amnesia, Thriftys, West 49, Mandee, Charlotte Russe, and Rue21.

How you will make a difference:

The Junior Graphic Designer – Buying is responsible for assisting in the drive and definition of graphics, from concept to final design, with brand specific graphics that are cutting-edge and fresh. This role will collaborate with the Design team and the Buying Department to ensure that all needs of the business are met and product aligns with our merchandise production schedule and reflects current market trends.

What You’ll Do:

• Create and design original artwork for apparel, including all over print design, graphic art and apparel marketing designs (i.e. hangtags)
• Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and arrange layouts based on aesthetic design concepts
• Present samples of finished designs to Design Manager
• Assist in creation of design concepts and board presentation for each season
• Work closely with Design and Buying teams to ensure a cohesive line is realized
• Develop themes and concepts using inspiration from samples and market research to establish seasonal graphics direction
• Create and develop labels, tags and branding accessories for apparel product
• Actively participate in the conceptual development of product lines, collaborating with apparel designers to expand graphics presence in apparel line
• Act as an expert resource on graphic product aesthetic and graphic processes
• Conduct store visits and competition reports
• Stay abreast of trends and new printing techniques and resources in Graphic design

What You’ll Need:

• Post-secondary education in Graphic Design
• 1+ years’ experience in Graphic Design
• Experience with the preparation of print files for production
• Proficient in Adobe Illustrator CS +, Adobe Photoshop CS +, Adobe InDesign skills, Acrobat 6
• Experience designing for a junior target market an asset
• Previous experience with fashion and/or screen-printing an asset
• Proficient on MAC and PC
• Proficient in Microsoft Office

What we offer:

• Competitive Compensation Package
• Health and Dental Benefits Plan
• Paid Sick Days
• Employee Discount
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Ongoing Training and Development
• Career Advancement Opportunities
• Being part of an amazing, supportive and collaborative team

YM Inc. is an equal opportunity employer. If chosen to participate in the selection process, accommodations are available upon request. We will consult with the applicant to provide or arrange suitable accommodation in a manner that takes into account the applicant’s accessibility needs.

This posting is for an open vacancy.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

• Extended health care
• On-site parking
• Store discount

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• North York, ON M6A 2W1: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Experience:

• Graphic design: 1 year (required)
• Adobe Illustrator: 1 year (required)

Work Location: In person