McMullan Arts Leadership Intern, Exhibition Design

Art Institute of Chicago • Chicago, IL

2d • Onsite

About The Position

The Art Institute of Chicago's department of Exhibition Design is offering a McMullan Arts Leadership intern position. The intern will work directly with the exhibition design team as a contributing member on projects at various stages of development. This role provides exposure to the full scope of the exhibition design process, from concept to installation, and develops hands-on skills through tasks such as drafting layouts, preparing models, and supporting design documentation. The Exhibition Design department is responsible for all three-dimensional design for exhibitions across the museum, integrating architecture, design, and storytelling to create meaningful visitor experiences. The intern will join a museum-wide intern cohort with access to development programs, mentorship, and an intern alumni network.

Requirements

• Undergraduate or graduate student; recent graduates (within one year of graduation) will also be considered.
• Applicants must be based in the Chicagoland area and/or attending school in the Chicagoland area over the course of the internship term.
• Academic background in Architecture, Interior Design, Industrial Design, or a related field.
• Strong communication skills and a collaborative, proactive mindset.
• Interest in the relationship between art, architecture, and design.
• Willingness to learn new software, including Vectorworks and SketchUp, if not already familiar.

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with design software such as Adobe Creative Suite, or Rhino.
• Experience with model-making, spatial design, or exhibition-related projects.
• Demonstrated ability to think critically about design in cultural or institutional contexts.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Exhibition Design team on active projects, contributing to all phases of the design process from concept development through installation.
• Produce design materials including floor plans, elevations, maquettes, and 3D models using software such as Vectorworks and SketchUp.
• Conduct site surveys and model existing gallery spaces to support current and future exhibition planning.
• Participate in regular team meetings and intern cohort programs, including mentorship check-ins and museum-wide professional development sessions.

Benefits

• Mentorship is provided throughout the experience.
• Connections with an intern alumni network will be established.
• Access to a range of programs to support their development.
• Technological accommodations will be provided by the Art Institute of Chicago based on necessity.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: Associate degree