Freelance Production Artist

amika means friend. we're a fearless, Brooklyn-born, salon-raised haircare brand + a friend to all hair, hairstylists, the planet + you.

we're rooted in clinical results. each product is infused with our intoxicating scent + powered by our superfruit soul, sea buckthorn. known as one of earth's most omega-rich plant sources, this potent berry nourishes your skin, scalp + strands.

we're a proud pal to the planet + certified B-Corp. from sustainably sourced ingredients + recyclable packaging to our energy-saving production processes, we pledge to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, waste + energy to reach Net Zero by 2030.

having grown up in salons, we know better than anyone how important stylists are-they're our confidantes + community. Think of us as your at-home hairapist, here to empower self-expression + bring joy to your haircare experience. all hair is welcome™.

the job:

We're looking for a passionate, detail-driven Production Artist to support the creation of innovative packaging and retail/VM assets for our beauty and haircare portfolio.

This role supports the Creative team by preparing, executing, and finalizing high-quality files that are technically accurate, on-brand, and production-ready.

Primary focus: packaging production art + retail/VM mechanicals (signage, fixtures, displays).
Secondary support: select print assets as needed.

The ideal candidate is highly organized, proactive, and thrives in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, able to manage versioning, approvals, and production constraints without sacrificing craft.

hourly rate: $45 per hour

location: brooklyn - 2x a week onsite (must be based in nyc + have the right to work in the US)

what you'll do:

• consult with Designers/Art Directors throughout the development process and honor their intent when converting designs into production-ready mechanicals

• prepare final print-ready files for packaging (cartons, labels, tubes/bottles, shippers, inserts, kits) and VM/Retail(signage, headers, shelf strips, gondola elements, corrugate/acrylic elements, etc.)

• execute layout revisions, resizing, adaptations, and multi-SKU versioning (variants, retailer-specific needs, localization/translation where applicable)

• build and update mechanicals, dielines, and artwork according to production specifications; adapt vendor-supplied dielines as needed

• ensure correct color modes, bleeds, trims, resolution, file formats, and finishing callouts (foil, emboss/deboss, spot varnish, matte/gloss, coatings)

• preflight/proof files to identify and correct errors prior to release; maintain an exceptionally high bar for copy accuracy, product truth, and brand consistency

• route artwork internally, track approvals, and implement markups accurately with strong version control

• coordinate directly with vendors, printers, fabricators, and production partners to meet technical specifications and timelines; troubleshoot issues quickly and calmly

• partner with Store Design/VM and Industrial Design to write, refine, and share clear print specs for retail displays and packaging with suppliers and cross-functional partners

• advise on print methods, finishes, and production feasibility-flagging risks early (quality, cost, timing) and proposing solutions

• evaluate color and finishes during material sampling and prototype reviews; understand how materials affect color and deliver detailed feedback to suppliers and internal stakeholders

• maintain organized file systems and handoffs across projects (clear naming, folder hygiene, archival)

collaboration & key partners:

you'll work closely with:

• Product Design / Packaging Design

• Visual Merchandising / Store Design

• Industrial Design

• Creative Leadership (ACD/CD) + Design/Art Direction

• Creative Operations / PM (where applicable)

• Regulatory / Legal (claims, INCI, compliance checkpoints)

• External printers, packaging suppliers, fabricators, retouchers (as needed)

must haves:

• 3-5+ years of experience as a Production Artist in a product company, design studio, creative agency, print publication, or on the manufacturing side (printing/packaging/display supplier)

• strong experience preparing and adapting artwork for packaging + retail/VM, with understanding of structure, materials, and production constraints

• expert proficiency in Adobe Illustrator (primary), InDesign, Photoshop, and Acrobat Pro (preflight/proofing)

• strong command of typography and production design conventions; ability to supply artwork in appropriate file formats based on manufacturing process

• fluency in 4-color process, Pantone matching systems, studio color management, color profiles, and proofing

• working knowledge of print processes (litho, flexo, digital) and fundamentals of separations/plates (as applicable)

• demonstrated ability to write clear, error-free print specifications and manage accurate versioning/routing

• highly organized, detail-obsessed, and able to work independently to obtain clarification and keep projects moving

• BA required; BFA/BA in Graphic Design or related field preferred

• NYC-based; able to be…