The Strong develops and offers exhibitions and other mission-driven experiences and services that engage, entertain, and enlighten through the exploration and interpretation of play. The museum's exhibitions provide a unique blend of artifacts and interactivity. The exhibit designer is responsible for conceptual and schematic design, concept rendering, prototyping, design development, and installation. This position promotes attractive, innovative, functional, and inclusive displays which further the museum's mission and strategic goals. This position requires a strong visual communicator who can think and design creatively, spatially, and experientially to determine the most effective methods of visitor engagement, accuracy in message portrayal, and functionality regarding staff and guest needs. Essential Duties:
- Develop a practical and intuitive understanding of The Strong's design style with the goal of ensuring that all visible new additions to the institution, whether on- or off-site, uphold and strengthen a tasteful and functional interpretation of design standards.
- Participate in meetings with the AVP for Exhibits to define project context, scope, budget, and strategy.
- Work within an interdisciplinary team environment to develop comprehensive designs including exhibition development, graphic design, interactive design, casework and artifact displays, and unique environmental opportunities for impactful guest engagement.
- Assist the Institutional Advancement team with the cultivation of donors through exhibit concept renderings, 3D modeling, virtual model flythroughs, donor recognition graphics, and various other presentation media methods.
- Consult with the conservation team to determine how to handle an exhibit's environmental aspects, such as lighting, temperature, and humidity, so that objects will be protected, and exhibits will be enhanced.
- Encourage exploration of ideas and collaborate in creative brainstorming in the research and development phases. Maintain openness to rapid iteration and short-term problem solving as well as long-term vision development.
- Conduct research to inform design work and interpret the vision and objectives for an exhibit.
- Use up-to-date methods and standards to design exhibit layouts and features that are experiential, engaging, and accessible to diverse audiences.
- Suggest methods, materials, and techniques for exhibit fabrication and presentation of artifacts.
- Create and communicate original conceptual design ideas for temporary and permanent exhibit using descriptions, models, drawings, computer renderings, and other media. Be comfortable and confident working in 2D and 3D design environments.
- Develop concepts into 3D exhibit experiences. After receiving feedback, develop final designs with dimensions and notes to build by, including floor plan, lighting, design detail, section drawings, color schemes, and labels/graphics package. Ensure that final designs bring the team's vision to life.
- Contribute to prototyping efforts for exhibit concepts to determine functionality and feasibility.
- Evaluate components and rework or alter models or parts as required to ensure they meet exhibit and safety standards. Apply creative problem solving to unique exhibit interactive and multimedia projects.
- Work with exhibit fabricators, graphic designers, technology specialists, and other internal or external vendors to execute production from conceptual stages through to construction documentation, installation, and beyond.
- Develop and maintain appropriate documentation of exhibit design information, including concepts, specifications, final drawings, and graphics for team project files.
- Ensure efficient coordination, timely completion, and high quality of assigned projects.
- Write purchase requisitions for materials, as needed.
- Maintain positive and cooperative communications and collaboration with all levels of employees, guests, contractors, and vendors. Follow up with individuals as appropriate.
- Look for opportunities to continually improve exhibits-related processes.
- Maintain technical knowledge and remain current on industry best practices.
- Complete all tasks with strict adherence to all internal and OSHA safety guidelines, policies, and procedures including lock out tag out, use of personal protective equipment, and maintaining an orderly and clean work area.
- Work with team members to clean exhibitions, as directed.
- Participate in the development and achievement of annual exhibits and museum-wide goals and objectives.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in architectural interior design, industrial design, visual art, or related field.
- 5+ years of related work experience in creative or exhibit design, preferably in a museum.
- Ability to work with an interdisciplinary professional team, including high-level team leaders.
- Anticipates and responds to changes in a professional and courteous manner.
- Ability to exercise good judgment and be deliberate, flexible, and dynamic in practice.
- Skilled in developing, designing, or creating new, innovative prototypes, ideas, or processes for exhibition development and fabrication.
- Ability to communicate creative concepts to stakeholders and leadership in an eloquent and professional manner, clearly and effectively articulating creative rationale.
- Strong ability to multi-task and work with competing deadlines and varying priorities without compromising attention to detail or quality of work.
- Must have robust sketch abilities and high-proficiency with spreadsheets, computer aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) software, desktop publishing software, development environment software, document management software, and graphics and photo imaging software.
Pre-Employment Requirements: Must consent to and pass a drug screen, baseline audiogram, and criminal background check as conditions of employment.