Architectural Exhibit Designer

$65,000 - $80,000/Yr

Wildlife Conservation Society

Full-time - Mid Level

1,001-5,000 employees

Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations

About the position

The Architectural Exhibit Designer at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) is responsible for conceptualizing, designing, documenting, managing, and supervising the fabrication of exhibits and other design projects across various WCS facilities, including zoos and aquariums. This role emphasizes an integrated approach to design that combines storytelling through landscape and architectural design, graphic design, and interpretive planning, ensuring high-quality projects that engage and inspire visitors while meeting operational and animal care needs.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with WCS staff and EGAD staff on all phases of design for zoo and aquarium projects.
• Play a role in design programming, visual concept development, design, documentation, and construction administration/supervision.
• Coordinate design processes between outside design consultants and in-house clients.
• Create conceptual drawings and layouts for exhibits, landscapes, and visitor experiences, as well as presentation renderings and animations.
• Produce construction drawings and specifications for in-house exhibit projects.
• Manage small to medium-sized projects at all WCS facilities.
• Work closely with EGAD staff to develop preliminary project schedules and budgets, scopes of work, and requests for proposals.
• Manage exhibit and/or architectural projects, including administration schedules and budgets.
• Assist with the development of personal services allocation budgets and monitor them for each task and/or phase.
• Meet deadlines established for each phase of projects.
• Assist with the research, selection, and management of consultants.
• Review outside consultant's design, construction drawings, and contractor's shop drawings to ensure design intent is preserved.
• Represent EGAD to other departments on all aspects of EGAD work and implementation.
• Research exhibits and building materials, systems, and consultants as necessary; specify colors, finishes, fixtures, and furnishings.
• Incorporate sustainable practices, accessibility, and inclusion into all aspects of design.
• Manage administration and/or supervision of construction phases for projects in coordination with WCS Operations department.
• Follow construction administration protocols for the design team, including attending construction meetings and monitoring construction progress.
• Ensure the highest quality guest experience at WCS facilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in a design field.
• 5-7 years of professional experience in exhibition, theater, interior, or theme park design or exhibit architecture and project management.
• Ability to create concept sketches, layouts, renderings, animations, and physical models as a design and problem-solving tool.
• Strong visual, verbal, and written communication, organizational, and administrative skills.
• Highly developed aesthetic and programming judgement.
• Advanced knowledge of exhibit and building materials and systems.
• Experience in all phases of design and construction.
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, and other relevant software.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in managing junior designers and interns.
• Familiarity with labor laws and regulations related to employment.

Benefits

• Competitive salary range of $65,000 to $80,000.
• Hybrid work environment.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.