Graphic Design & Sign Production Internship

Graphic Design & Sign Production Internship: Ohio State Fair

Position Type: Seasonal, Full-Time Position

Pay: $15/hour (No paid holidays, no overtime)

Duration: June – Early August (through completion of the Ohio State Fair, July 29–August 9, 2026)

Location: Ohio Expo Center and State Fairgrounds, Columbus, OH

Minimum Age Requirement: 18+

Position Overview:

The Ohio State Fair Visual Communications Office is offering a unique Graphic Design & Sign Production Internship that blends creative design with real-world signage and event production. Interns will begin the summer focused on graphic design, building signage templates, layouts, and creative assets, and then transition into hands-on production and installation as the Fair approaches.

This internship is designed to give students and emerging professionals a rare opportunity to see their digital designs come to life at one of the nation’s largest state fairs - gaining experience from concept through installation.

Why this internship is a unique opportunity:

• Full Project Lifecycle: Experience the entire process from design to physical production to on-site installation.
• Creative Meets Practical: Expand your design portfolio while learning large-format print production techniques.
• High-Impact Work: Your designs and production work will be seen by more than half a million visitors at the Ohio State Fair.
• Mentorship & Training: Learn directly from professionals in both graphic design and event operations.
• Career Versatility: Build skills relevant to graphic design, event branding, sign production, and experiential marketing.

Key Skills & Responsibilities:

Graphic Design (Early Summer)

• Assist in designing signage, layouts, and branding assets for the Ohio State Fair.
• Adapt existing templates and create new visuals for banners, directional signs, vinyl decals, and more.
• Prepare files for large-format printing, ensuring color accuracy and correct dimensions.
• Collaborate with the Visual Communications team to align designs with the Fair’s creative direction.

Sign Production & Installation (Mid to Late Summer)

• Trim, cut, and finish printed signage materials, including banners, vinyl, and rigid substrates.
• Apply grommets, hem tape, and mounting materials for banners and signage.
• Weed, mask, and apply vinyl lettering and decals to a variety of surfaces.
• Organize and stage signage for distribution and installation.
• Install and remove signage across the fairgrounds, including walls, fences, posts, and windows.
• Assist with large-scale branding installations such as window graphics and directional signage.

Schedule & Expectations

• Full-time (40 hours per week) preferred.
• Internship begins in early June and runs through the Ohio State Fair (July 29–August 9, 2026).
• Must be available to work all 12 days of the Fair.
• Expect extended hours (up to 60 hours/week) and some weekend work in the two weeks leading up to the Fair.

Ideal Candidate

• Currently pursuing or recently completed studies in graphic design, visual communication, or related fields.
• Strong attention to detail, with a balance of creativity and practical problem-solving.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop).
• Comfortable learning hands-on production skills (training provided).
• Physically capable of standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 lbs, and working in outdoor conditions.

If you’re looking for a unique summer job where you’ll be part of creating the visual experience of the Ohio State Fair, we’d love to hear from you!