Senior Graphic Designer – Signage & Wayfinding

Populous•Kansas City, KS

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

Senior Graphic Designer – Signage & Wayfinding Location: Kansas City, MO Who We Are: We design places where people love to be together. Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments. We’ve designed and delivered some of the world's most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to ground-breaking live music venues. Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves. We offer the best of both worlds: the resources and impact of the design giants and the tightly knit atmosphere and growth opportunities of smaller firms. What We Offer: Professional & Personal Development Programs + Summer Hours + Hybrid Schedule + On-Site Gym (Dallas/KC) + Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams + Wedding Pay + Charitable Match Program + Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits. Who We Are Looking For: We are seeking a Senior Graphic Designer – Signage & Wayfinding to join our team in Kansas City. With 10+ years of experience you’ll be leading the creation of impactful wayfinding strategies, conceptual development and technical documentation across project phases. Our preferred candidate has experience with large-scale or high-capacity venues and is proficient with technical drawing, 3D visualization tools, and fabrication specifications.

Requirements

Advanced proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite; strong diagramming and layout skills
Expertise in understanding of typography, legibility, message sequencing, systems design, and environmental communication.
Ability to interpret complex architectural plans and coordinate sign systems with multiple disciplines.
Knowledge of ADA signage requirements and relevant building code compliance.
Outstanding communication skills and team-oriented mindset that encourages effective collaboration.
Highly organized, adaptable, and capable of managing independent workstreams.
Proven communication and presentation abilities.
10+ years of experience in graphic design in a studio environment
Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Architecture or Interior Design or related discipline.

Nice To Haves

Experience with large-scale public assembly or high-capacity venues.
Proficiency in technical drawing, 3D visualization tools, or fabrication specification drafting.

Responsibilities

Leading the creation of impactful signage and wayfinding systems for major national and international brands across entertainment, convention, hospitality, collegiate, and sports markets.
Conceptualizing and guiding the design of signage systems that elevate typography, brand expression, and 3D form to deliver clear communication and intuitive navigation.
Working closely with clients to identify opportunities that bring character and brand identity to life within venues and facilities.
Collaborating and leading other graphic designers, wayfinding planners, detailers, interior designers, and architects to ensure cohesive and high‑quality design outcomes.
Overseeing construction documents and large project information sets from concept through fabrication and installation.
Representing Populous in client and stakeholder meetings, presenting design direction and project updates.
Gathering stakeholder input to inform design decisions.
Conducting site visits as needed to evaluate conditions, support implementation, and ensure design intent is maintained.