Bachelor's degree in exhibition design, industrial design, architecture, or related field.
5-7 years of exhibit design experience in aquariums, zoos, museums, or similar organizations.
Proven leadership in the exhibit design process.
Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure.
Strong commitment to equity, social justice, and conservation.
Responsibilities
Support the Creative Director in establishing exhibit vision and project plans.
Manage the Exhibits Budget and supervise a team of 4 direct reports.
Collect and organize content for exhibits, collaborating with design and education teams.
Research and maintain relevant media for exhibit interpretation.
Oversee the editorial process and ensure accuracy in exhibit materials.
Engage external experts and manage partnerships for design and build processes.
Conduct audience evaluations and apply findings to future projects.
Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
Life Insurance
Short- and Long-Term Disability
Retirement Benefits and Plans
Paid leave including Vacation, Sick Time, and Holidays
Paid Parental leave
Employee Assistance Program
Free Family Membership to The Maritime Aquarium
Full Job Description
Position Overview
Reporting to the Creative Director, the Associate Director of Exhibits (ADE) is responsible for the design and execution of permanent and temporary exhibits, and the maintenance and management of collections to create engaging and meaningful experiences that inspire guests and support the Aquarium's mission. This position will work throughout the organization, coordinating closely with the operations and animal husbandry teams, while residing within the Brand Experience function in order to deliver on the organization's objectives and goals. The ADE is responsible for content research, proposing exhibit narratives, interactives, architectural or 3 dimensional features, and structures messages to resonate with guests.
Compensation
This is a full-time, exempt position offering a salary range of $85k - $100k per year.
Schedule
This is an in-person position, Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Primary Responsibilities
Supports the Creative Director in establishing exhibit project vision, plans and coordinates permanent and temporary exhibits consistent with the mission of The Maritime Aquarium, from concept through post-implementation evaluation.
Manages the Exhibits Budget and a team of 4 direct reports including an environmental graphic designer, an exhibit content developer, and 2 exhibits maintenance and facilities individuals, and consultants as needed.
Collect, organize, and manage content including background information, sources, and media; share this information with stakeholders and design team while working in close relation to the Aquarium's team of interpretive content designers and education staff.
Work closely with Creative Director and Associate Director of Interpretation on big idea, content/message, and environmental design with a focus on the guest experience.
Research images, videos, sounds, objects, and other relevant items for exhibit interpretation. Maintain relevant data, and acquire necessary usage rights and licenses.
Manage credits and acknowledgements in exhibit materials implementing technology solutions as needed.
Identify and engage outside experts, creators, agencies and others who provide services related to exhibit design and experience.
Oversee expert reviews and the editorial process; work with designer to ensure correct changes. Proofing of all exhibit elements from presentations and review packages to mechanicals for final graphics.
Manage and facilitate external and internal partners involved in design and build process.
Organize and help conduct audience/exhibit evaluations, and apply findings to changes and future projects.
Monitors guest experience and oversees repairs and enhancements to existing exhibits as needed.
In conjunction with the Creative Director, oversee the integration of the brand vision and objectives, within exhibit interpretation throughout the organization.
Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
Work Experience
Bachelor's degree or higher in exhibition design, industrial design, architecture or related design field.
5 to 7 years in exhibit design at an aquarium, zoo, museum, or related organization ideally with increasing responsibilities.
Experience leading exhibit design process at an aquarium, zoo, or museum.
Experience working under pressure and managing multiple, competing tasks and priorities.
Knowledge and Skills
Commitment to the Aquarium's mission, with an appreciation for the important role that the Aquarium plays in conservation, education and the life of a vibrant community.
Knowledge of production methods and materials, fabrication techniques and procedures, with sensitivity to ecological, biological and conservation issues to elevate guest experience.
Ability to conceptualize content in 2D and 3D spaces.
Commitment to equity and social justice, and strong alignment with our organizational values.
Exemplary project management skills in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Continuous improvement / problem solving mindset and way of working.
Strong attention to detail.
Willingness to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed.
Facility in collecting and utilizing data to inform and validate decisions.
Benefits
Health Insurance Benefits
Health Reimbursement Account (HRA)
Life Insurance
Short- and Long-Term Disability
Retirement Benefits and Plans
Paid leave (Vacation and Sick Time, Bereavement Leave, Jury Duty, and Holidays)
Paid Parental leave
Employee Assistance Program
Free Family Membership to The Maritime Aquarium
This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
