Graphic Designer Principal - Project Hire/Internal Assignment

The Walt Disney Company•Glendale, CA

2d•Onsite

About The Position

Walt Disney Imagineering is the creative force behind Disney's theme parks, resorts, attractions, and cruise ships worldwide. Imagineers combine storytelling, art, science, and technology to create immersive experiences. This role focuses on Environmental Graphic Design, developing signage and show graphics for Disney Theme Parks and Resorts. The Graphic Designer Principal will lead the strategy and execution of Environmental Graphic and Signage solutions for large, complex projects, ensuring design excellence and technical accuracy from concept to construction. This is a Project Hire position without guaranteed permanent placement.

Requirements

12+ years of experience in Environmental Graphic Design.
5+ years of experience leading design teams in Environmental Graphic Design or Signage.
Expert knowledge of Environmental Graphic Design and sign construction techniques.
Expert knowledge of Sign Code requirements.
Extensive experience with materials, fabrication methods, and thematic applications.
Proven ability to plan complex projects including scheduling, budgeting, and staffing.
Ability to develop and implement strategies to solve complex graphic design challenges.
Strong leadership skills with ability to manage large teams and influence design direction.
Ability to make strategic design decisions with minimal supervision.
Strong communication skills and ability to represent the discipline in cross-functional environments.
Knowledge and direct use of computer systems and software used by WDI for environmental graphic design and business communication: Adobe Creative Suite including Illustrator, Photoshop, Bluebeam Revu, Microsoft Office products: Outlook, Word, Excel.
Strong familiarity with reading and using architectural documents.

Nice To Haves

Expert proficiency with signage code requirements including Fire, Safety, Health, and ADA/ADAG.
Ability to develop fabrication and installation estimates from schematic design for complex projects.
Experience influencing design direction in partnership with Project Leadership.
Deep knowledge of theme park design, storytelling principles, and immersive environments.
Expertise in analyzing and developing strategies for large-scale Environmental Graphic Design programs.
Additional knowledge of the following programs preferred, but not required: Revit, AutoCAD, 3-D rendering software, PowerPoint.

Responsibilities

Lead Environmental Graphic Design for large or highly complex projects, including those requiring advanced technical expertise such as sign codes, construction methods, materials, and specifications.
Develop and lead Graphic Signage fabrication and manufacturing specifications.
Establish graphic design standards for projects and ensure adherence to department and divisional Standards of Practice.
Lead development of graphic scope for code-required signage across domestic and international projects.
Partner with Project Leadership to coordinate and communicate Graphic Design strategies, issues, and solutions.
Support project goals through advanced problem-solving and development of design solutions.
Provide graphic design leadership in partnership with Creative leadership and Park Operations.
Direct in-house designers and Design Services consultants in development of design intent and contract documentation.
Provide art direction and leadership during fabrication and implementation phases in collaboration with Art Direction, Project Management, Construction, and Operations teams.
Lead and manage large teams of Environmental Graphic Designers and consultants across multiple or complex projects.
Delegate work, perform peer reviews, and ensure quality of design output across the team.
Develop scopes of work, soft cost estimates, budgets, schedules, and fabrication/installation strategies.
Monitor team performance against project schedule, budget, and earned value.