Exhibit Designer

Government of Alberta•Edmonton, AB

15d

About The Position

Arts, Culture and Status of Women works to improve Albertans’ quality of life through support of cultural development, historical preservation and increased gender equality. For more information on the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Status of Women, please visit this link: Arts, Culture and Status of Women | Alberta.caRole ResponsibilitiesReporting to the Manager of Design, Production and Operations, the Exhibit Designer is part of a multidisciplinary creative team responsible for conceptualizing, designing, and delivering a wide range of experiences and interpretive products for the Heritage Division’s historic sites, museums, and interpretive centres. This role transforms interpretive plans and curatorial content into actionable exhibit designs and documentation that support the development, installation, and ongoing operation of exhibitions and related experiences. The Exhibit Designer develops concepts, preliminary drawings, and detailed technical documentation, including construction and material specifications. Working closely with fellow Exhibit Designers, Graphic Designers, Media Producers, and specialized Museum Technicians, this role also provides leadership in implementing design solutions through in-house teams and external contractors. In addition, the position may contribute to the design of wayfinding systems, interactive elements, outdoor interpretive signage, and other components that support the creation and maintenance of engaging visitor experiences.

Requirements

University graduation (Bachelors’ Degree) in a related field (i.e. Museum Studies, Interior Design, Industrial Design, Environmental Design, or related field) plus five years related experience; or equivalent as described below.
Equivalency: Directly related education or experience considered on the basis of:
1 year of education for 1 year of experience.
1 year of experience for 1 year of education.
Related Experience:
Minimum of five (5) years of experience in exhibit design or related fields such as environmental, industrial, interior, or theatre design, and/or exhibit production.
Advanced proficiency with computer platform and design software packages (CAD, 3D modeling, etc.) Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft 365, and comfort with learning new related software.
Knowledge of environmental scenography, graphic design, media production, digital and mechanical interactive, museum object display, and audiovisual presentation, in order to integrate these various experiences and components into an overall design concept.
Understanding of ergonomics, materials properties and characteristics, fabrication/manufacturing processes, drafting and aesthetics.
Highly developed oral/written communication skills and visual/oral presentation skills.
Strong interpersonal skills to work effectively with colleagues and stakeholders, product reps, suppliers, fabricators, designers, and interpreters.
Knowledge of lighting design, techniques as well as special lighting requirements for artifacts and archival materials.
Working knowledge of construction and fabrication methods, materials, hardware systems, finishes, assembly processes and installation techniques.
Theoretical and practical knowledge of accessibility standards.
Effective project management skills, and ability to manage own work independently.
Class 5 driver's license

Nice To Haves

Experience designing exhibitions within the museum or cultural sector is a strong asset, given the specialized nature of the role.
Experience in project planning, including schedule and budget development, as well as proficiency in project coordination, is an asset.

Responsibilities

Conceptualize and design exhibitions, exhibits, and interpretive products that meet project goals and visitor experience objectives.
Translate interpretive plans and project requirements into clear design concepts, drawings, and technical documentation.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to integrate graphics, media, objects, lighting, interactives, and technical systems into cohesive museum experiences.
Develop concept sketches, renderings, prototypes, and detailed construction drawings, specifications, and budgets.
Apply knowledge of materials, fabrication methods, and relevant codes to ensure designs are safe, durable, and compliant.
Lead and support the implementation of designs, including liaising with fabricators, contractors, and installation teams.
Manage procurement processes, review shop drawings, and oversee quality control during production and installation.
Participate in the evaluation of exhibit performance, support maintenance and updates, and contribute to continuous improvement and future projects.