SIGN MAKER

 Forest Preserve District of Cook County

Job Summary

Under minimum supervision of the Sign Shop Forman or higher, responsible for the design, size, preparation and application of vinyl lettering and decals to District equipment including, but not limited to, the application of vehicle graphics and wraps. Must have knowledge and experience with procedures for application of lettering onto various substrates used District-wide. Produces signs for the District to notify people of buildings, room numbers, and restroom locations. Produces regulatory signage for the District's law enforcement such as speed limit signage, no parking signage, ADA compliance signage and others as required. Maintains all sign making equipment, including computers, plotters, and printers. This is a Local 700 Union position.

Typical Duties

Utilizes a computer with Adobe Illustrator or InDesign software or other programs to design, layout and produce a variety of regulatory signs, informational signs, numbers, or letters for fleet identification.

Generates, reads, and interprets work orders.

Lays out sign by entering the dimensions of the sign, the type and size of the lettering, or any part of a design graphic into the sign making  software Cut vinyl lettering, utilize the weeding process, and apply transfer tape for the purpose of use on signage or asset identification.

Applies cut-out vinyl lettering to appropriate sign backing and prepares for installation. Evaluate necessary materials for production of all pending sign projects and order materials as needed.

Ensures that all order time commitments are met.

Reads and implements job requirements accurately.

Perform basic maintenance to achieve optimal performance of all sign related equipment, machinery, and power tools.

Creates new and/or adapts existing designs. Understand the installation process of signs and ensure that installation meets all compliance standards.

Able to install signs on-site.

Provides proofs as necessary prior to production.

Ensures that sign design and installation meet compliance standards for safety and other applicable regulations.

Maintains work log records manually or via the Computer Maintenance Management System (CMMS).

Minimum Qualifications

Must possess at least 2 years of full-time work experience in sign making 

Must possess at least 2 years of full-time work experience in Adobe Suites, such as Photo Shop, Illustrator, and In-Design programs.

Must possess a valid driver's license and enter the information in the license field provided on the online application.

Preferred Qualifications

Possess at least 3 years of sign shop experience; OR at least 1 season of work experience as a Seasonal Youth Outdoor Ambassador; OR at least 1 season of work with the Forest Preserves of Cook County (FPCC); OR at least 1 season of work experience as a Conservation Corp Crew member; OR at least 1 season of work experience with partners such as the Chicago Zoological Society, Chicago Botanic Garden, Greencorps Chicago, Friends of the Forest Preserves, the Student Conservation Association, Cook County, the City of Chicago, or the Chicago Park District.

Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

Working knowledge of sign making software, printers, and plotters.

Skill and ability in planning, layout, and implementation of graphics for projects.

Experience in computer skills utilizing hardware/ software for sign production.

Ability to create simple to complex signs.

Knowledge of materials including, but not limited to, vinyl, plastic, metal, glass, and wood.

Ability to make repairs and revisions to existing elements.

Ability to communicate verbally and in writing.

Strong mathematical skills along with good hand and eye coordination.

Ability to clean and maintain equipment used in sign making process.

Ability to maintain records of materials used in stock, assignments completed and assignments in progress.

Position requires various types of physical exertion including, but not limited to climbing, lifting, pulling, pushing, and moving objects of moderate to heavy weight.        

The duties listed are not set forth for purposes of limiting the assignment of work.  They are not to be construed as a complete list of the many duties normally to be performed under a job title or those to be performed temporarily outside an employee's normal line of work.

Veteran's Preference

When applying for employment with the Forest Preserve District of Cook County, preference is given in the application process to honorably discharged Veterans who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States for more than 180 consecutive days or during War Time.  To take advantage of this preference, a Veteran must:

Meet the minimum qualifications for the position.

Identify themselves as a Veteran on their employment application by answering Yes to the question "Are you a military veteran?"

Attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215, or NGB 22 (Notice of Separation) at the time of application by uploading it as part of your application.  If there are multiple DD 214s, DD 215s, or NGB 22s, the one with the most recent date should be submitted.  Coast Guard members must submit a certified copy of the military separation from either the Department of Transportation (before 911) or the Department of Homeland Security (after 911).

Provide original applicable discharge papers at time of interview.

Benefits Package

Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage

Basic Term Life Insurance

Pension Plan and Deferred Compensation Program

Employee Assistance Program

Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time

You May Qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF)  

For further information on our excellent benefits package, please click on the following link:

http://www.cookcountyrisk.com/

General District Employment Requirements

PROOF OF EDUCATION, CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES WILL BE REQUIRED FOR AN INTERVIEW. 

The Forest Preserve District of Cook County is an equal opportunity employer and ensures against discrimination in employment on the basis of a person's race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, military discharge status, source of income, housing status, or gender identity. We value our employees and the different talents, expertise, and viewpoints that each brings to the table. We believe a robust exchange of ideas results in better decision-making and we commit to providing a constructive, safe, and positive work atmosphere that promotes mutual respect and empowers individuals to thrive in their jobs.