Exhibits and Graphics Manager at the Oregon Coast Aquarium
Job Title: Exhibits and Graphics Manager
Job Status: Full-time
Location: Newport, OR
Description
The Exhibits and Graphics Manager guides exhibit interpretive planning for the Aquarium, including writing, designing, and evaluating graphics and interactives that convey the organization-wide education and conservation messages The manager oversees the coordination of exhibits for our changing exhibit gallery, including internal design and production. As a member of the Education & Volunteer Services team, the incumbent facilitates exhibit related communications between multiple departments as well as with external vendors and consultants.
Requirements
KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (Minimum levels)
Related college degree and background in education, graphic design, or five years experience with interpretive planning, graphic design, interpretive writing, and project coordination required. Ability to write/speak Spanish preferred, but not required.
The incumbent must be able to gain and hold a valid Oregon driver’s license.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
Knowledge of
- Project management principles and techniques
- Preferred-practice interpretation and graphic design methods related to zoos/aquariums/museums
- Extensive knowledge in principles and practices of exhibit design
- Relevant creative technologies including Adobe Photoshop and other professional design and editing software
- Microsoft Office applications, particularly Word, Excel, PPT, Illustrator and Outlook.
- Materials used in graphic arts, such as vinyl, plastic, wood, paint, and other construction elements
- ADA-requirements for consideration during signage design and installation process.
- Project evaluation processes
- Customer service best practices
- Group dynamics and group problem-solving techniques, such as leading meetings, gaining support while dealing with complex subjects, resolving conflicts and reaching consensus
Strong writing and verbal skills are essential.
Ability to
- Research subject matter, understand basic literature in the field, and have substantive, collaborative conversations with subject matter specialists
- Develop and present exhibit themes, goals and objectives
- Effectively organize work, manage time, prioritize tasks, and follow both written and oral direction
- Be responsive to and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders served or impacted by exhibits
- Work in team environment, with strong interpersonal skills and ability to develop stories collaboratively. Build effective relationships with internal and external topic experts and contractors
- Collaborate with organizational partners to develop stories and messaging around shared missions
- Manage a portfolio of signage projects in various stages at one time; manage time efficiently and effectively through scheduling and prioritizing
- Create messaging that is inclusive and considers the Aquarium’s diverse audiences; develop strategies to more effectively engage diverse and underserved communities
- Relate effectively with people of various cultural backgrounds, levels of education, and experience
- Read and interpret floor plans and elevations, safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals
- Evaluate, improve and expand current graphic design and participate in creating new exhibits
- Plan and lead exhibit development meetings
- Effectively communicate ideas both orally and in writing
- Use computers and standard, commonly accepted computer programs (MS Office products) is required
- Work under limited supervision and as a member of a team.