Visual Information Specialist (IS-1084-07)

Smithsonian Institution•Washington, DC

84d•$57,736 - $65,435•Onsite

About The Position

The National Museum of Asian Art seeks a Visual Information Specialist to support the design and production of museum publications and printed communications. Reporting to the Head of Graphic Design, the incumbent assists in developing exhibition catalogues, publications, gallery guides, brochures, donor materials, annual reports, and other print projects that communicate the museum’s collections, exhibitions, and research. Working as part of the Design team, within the museum’s Department of Brand Engagement and Communications, the Visual Information Specialist collaborates with curators, editors, photographers, educators, conservators, and external vendors to translate complex scholarly content into visually compelling publications. The position requires exceptional graphic design skills, strong typography, print production knowledge, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining the museum’s high standards for visual excellence.

Requirements

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the IS/GS-05 level in the Federal service or comparable experience.
Assisting with the design or production of print publications, brochures, reports, catalogues, gallery guides, invitations, signage, educational materials, donor materials, or other printed communications.
Using graphic design software to prepare layouts, edit images, format text, create production files, or revise design materials.
Advanced proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and related software.
Collaborating with designers, editors, curators, photographers, educators, vendors, or communications staff to complete visual information or publication assignments.
Undergraduate or graduate education with major study in commercial art, fine arts, art history, industrial design, architecture, drafting, interior design, photography, visual communication, graphic design, publication design, or another field related to the position.
A combination of graduate education and specialized experience.
Professional knowledge of graphic design principles, typography, editorial design, and visual communication.
Advanced proficiency with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat, and related software.
Some experience designing books, catalogues, brochures, and other long-form print publications.
Some knowledge of commercial printing, color management, prepress workflows, proofing, and file preparation.
Some experience preparing high-quality reproductions of works of art for publication.
Strong project management and organizational skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively with editors, curators, authors, photographers, printers, and vendors.
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to balance multiple priorities while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with accessibility principles and Smithsonian brand standards is desirable.

Responsibilities

Assist the Head of Graphic Design in the design and production of exhibition catalogues, scholarly books, gallery guides, brochures, annual reports, donor publications, and other museum print materials.
Design page layouts, typographic systems, maps, timelines, charts, infographics, and interpretive graphics.
Develop layouts that balance scholarly content, accessibility, readability, and visual excellence.
Revise publications based on editorial, curatorial, and design feedback.
Ensure consistency with Smithsonian and National Museum of Asian Art brand standards.
Prepare production-ready files using industry-standard prepress practices.
Perform image preparation, color correction, retouching, file optimization, and proof review.
Coordinate with printers regarding specifications, schedules, and quality assurance.
Assist with paper selection, binding methods, specialty printing, and finishing options.
Maintain organized production archives and final publication assets.
Create supporting print collateral including brochures, invitations, gallery guides, signage, educational materials, proposals, and promotional pieces.
Assist with exhibition graphics and environmental graphics as assigned.
Edit and prepare photographs and illustrations for publication.
Manage multiple publication and print projects from concept through production.
Help develop schedules and coordinate milestones with editors, curators, and vendors.
Ensure adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
Work under the direction of the Head of Graphic Design to develop creative solutions.
Collaborate with curators, editors, photographers, educators, conservators, and communications staff.
Participate in design critiques and contribute ideas that strengthen museum publications.
Work independently and collaboratively to complete assignments.
Collaborates across the Design team to support exhibitions, publications, digital initiatives, institutional communications, and other museum collateral and priorities as assigned.
Maintain project documentation and production records.
Assist with procurement related to printing and publication vendors.
Complete required administrative responsibilities in accordance with Smithsonian procedures.
Communicate regularly and effectively with supervisors and team members.
Perform other duties as assigned.