Freelance/ Graphic Designer

Freelance Graphic Designer

RKS Design – Thousand Oaks, CA

Freelance / Contract | In-Office

About RKS Design

RKS Design is a global innovation and product-development firm with over 40 years of experience delivering breakthrough solutions across consumer, medical, industrial, and digital categories. We blend human-centered design, business strategy, engineering, and our proprietary Psycho-Aesthetics® methodology to create products, services, and experiences that resonate emotionally and perform commercially. Our team works end-to-end, from insight and strategy to design, engineering, and go-to-market execution.

Job Summary

We are seeking a mid-level Graphic Designer to consult on a freelance basis with our creative team. You will shape how products look and communicate, from packaging and on-product graphics to brand identity, presentations, and marketing materials. You'll work closely with Industrial Design, UX, Strategy, and Marketing to ensure every touchpoint tells a cohesive story for both our clients and RKS.

What You'll Do

• Design brand identities, logos, and visual systems for client products and brands.
• Create packaging, labeling, and on-product graphics (CMF and graphics overlays, icons, user interface graphics, instructions for use) in close collaboration with Industrial Design and Engineering.
• Produce high-quality client presentations, design boards, and pitch materials that clearly communicate concepts and strategy.
• Design marketing assets for RKS, including website graphics, social media, case studies, award submissions, email campaigns, and trade show materials.
• Prepare production-ready files and work with printers and vendors to ensure accurate color, materials, and finish.
• Maintain and evolve brand guidelines for RKS and client brands.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions and design reviews, providing creative direction and constructive feedback.

Engagement Details

• Freelance / Contract
• Project-based engagement
• In office, Thousand Oaks, CA

Requirements

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, or a related field.
• 5+ years of professional graphic design experience, ideally within a design agency or consultancy.
• Strong portfolio showing brand identity, packaging, and presentation / layout work.
• Expert proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign); Figma experience preferred.
• Strong typography, layout, and color skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Experience preparing files for print and production, including packaging dielines.
• Strong communication skills and comfort collaborating with designers, engineers, and clients.
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with product graphics, packaging, or CMF for physical products
• Motion graphics or video editing (After Effects, Premiere) a plus
• Basic 3D rendering (KeyShot or similar) a plus
• Consulting / Agency experience is highly preferred