The Exhibit Designer is a key member of the Exhibition Development team and is responsible for multiple aspects of the design of National Geographic Exhibitions from concept to fabrication and installation. This position requires an organized, highly experienced and skilled individual to work with the development team in the planning, coordination, and implementation of exhibitions. The primary responsibilities will be to design exhibit layouts and architectural components, create presentation drawings and produce comprehensive construction drawings for fabrication, utilizing both 2D, 3D and animation applications. This position will serve as a liaison between design and production shops to ensure specifications and fabrication details reflect design intent. Must be a creative and collaborative thinker, able to produce on tight deadlines and well-versed in construction techniques and structural design software.


RequirementsResponsibilities
Conceptual Design: Participates in exhibition planning meetings and does research to establish exhibit themes, brainstorm design ideas, and create exhibit concepts. Interprets exhibition content into 3D designs that work in concert with other exhibit elements to communicate thematic goals. Assists in the development of physical and media-based interactive components. Produces renderings and other materials for use in project visualizations and presentations. (15%)
Detailing and Design: Produces design drawings (floor plans, demo/build plans, paint plans, dimension drawings, elevations, detail drawings, in-case artifact layouts, case lists and/or schedules) and shop-ready detailed construction drawings for in-house and traveling exhibitions. Supports construction bid packages with complete instructions for estimation and execution by outside vendors. Reviews shop-drawings as required. Generates specifications and cost estimates for exhibition components and materials. Advises on materials and finishes as part of the creative design team. Ensures all plans meet safety, accessibility, bid, and feasibility requirements. Collaborates with project team on the overall design needs and requirements. (35%)
Traveling Exhibition Support: Supports the traveling exhibitions by creating manuals for National Geographic shows with images and instructions for installation of all exhibition graphics, build components, and audio-visual equipment for venues. Provides layout support and advises on installations, truck packing and shipping specs, crating, lighting and other needed design services as needed. (25%)
Installation: Supports Manager, Exhibitions Development and other staff on the installation and de-installation of exhibition build elements, AV equipment, and lighting. Coordinates placement of exhibit components. Assists with lighting hardware with the Senior Electronics Technician. (15%)
Administration: Follows National Geographic Museum design standards and guidelines and proposes ways to continue improving best practices. Work with Manager, Exhibition Development to establish estimates, detailed schedules, and budgets. Creates an accurate, organized, well-documented archive of work to be accessible to future users. Supports Manager of Museum Operations by providing inventory all exhibit physical assets, furniture and equipment. (10%)
Minimum Education Required
BA in Exhibition, Architectural, or Industrial Design or equivalent 3D design experience required.
Minimum Years and Type of Experience
5 or more years of relevant experience.
Knowledge and Skills Required
Candidate should be creative, flexible and able to work well with people. He or she should be experienced in the field, organized, diligent and capable of working under tight deadlines. Should be curious, enjoy learning new content, and committed to iterative processes. Proven experience with architectural CAD programs in an exhibitions environment, particularly VectorWorks, is a must. Working knowledge of construction techniques also required. Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and the development of mechanical and digital interactive experiences a plus.
Supervision
Vendors, subcontractors and temporary support staff as needed.
National Geographic's headquarters is located in the heart of Washington, D.C. In addition to a unique and dynamic work environment, National Geographic offers its employees a comprehensive benefits package, including health and dental benefits, generous vacation and leave time, a 401(k) plan, and flexible work options. National Geographic is an Equal Opportunity Employer