Job description

The graphic designer produces designs for the Museum of the Rockies exhibitions, public areas, and behind-the-scenes departments according to brand guidelines, for specific audiences and channels, meeting specific communication and marketing goals, on time and on budget. The Graphic Designer receives graphics and signage requests, assessing the scope of work and deadlines. The designer determines the aesthetic in direct collaboration with the Director of Exhibits and the exhibits team. The designer also collaborates with the marketing teams in the definition of visual communication goals for specific content themes. Consults and collaborates with experts, including Curators and the Director of Exhibits, in the creation of graphics, taking in consideration scientific accuracy, accessibility, multiple languages, and cultural sensibilities. Works with design assistants and/or interns who may need some mentoring and coaching. Creates graphics within general museum standards but with inclusivity and ADA standards in mind. Additionally, when needed, will assist with exhibit installations and deinstallations.

Duties and Responsibilities
Receives requests and coordinates workflow with Director of Exhibitions. Prepares plan to complete the requested design assignments. Creates and delivers files for review and approval, delivered on time at all milestones. Incorporates feedback and completes revisions in final production graphic files, based on the project schedule and budget. Coordinates with printers in-house and out of house for the final production and delivery of physical or digital pieces.
Develops graphic design pieces for print and digital multimedia. Develops graphic visual communication systems based on analysis and integration of an exhibitions theme and communication goals, determined by content development and marketing, as expressed in display summaries and briefs. Considers budgets and deadlines. Integrates modifications and revisions based on a thorough analysis of the feedback received from key stakeholders and collaborators at major milestone presentations.
Understands clearly the themes, subject matter, and content of each assignment, to co-create the audience/visitor experiences, in close collaboration with the team and stakeholders, to define the goals and conditions for the accessible, clear, safe, and culturally appropriate display of items and interpretive elements, in order to reach the intended visitor experience and communication goals.
Prepares rough drafts, concept boards, and graphic layouts in digital and hard copies, including style guides, and mock-ups. Mocks up in elevations and renderings, creates lists and diagrams of elements to be produced. Communicates approaches, receives feedback and responds to concerns.
At every design iteration and milestone confers with directors, and representatives of exhibition development, marketing, communication, web, production, staff and vendors, in order to gather all necessary information about message, audience, constraints, guidelines, budget, and schedule.
Plans for efficient resolution of communication and aesthetic issues, in compliance with accessibility guidelines, additional languages, signage guidelines, and brand guidelines. Solves issues in consultation with the exhibits team, internal clients, branding team, and any other key stakeholders throughout the institution, and in coordination with the exhibition team, in particular with exhibition project manager and the branding team.
Will work with the Exhibitions Team to load and unload traveling exhibits and assist with the installation and deinstallation of traveling exhibits. The position will also assist with mounting and displaying graphic panels in exhibit space. Will also work with the team to install or deinstall permanent exhibits as needed.
Will assist in yearly cleanings of exhibit space and as needed assist with general upkeep and basic maintenance.

Required Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Minimum of a BA or BFA in arts, graphic design, visual communication, or graphic arts. Or equivalent work experience.
Minimum of 2 years working as a graphic design artist.
Demonstrated experience using standard graphic design programs- EX- GIMP, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Corel Draw, or similar programs.
Demonstrated experience working in a coordinated way on multiple projects at the same time.
Demonstrated experience working with various graphic design-print media- foamboard, Sintra, acrylics, and/or canvas.

Preferred Qualifications – Experience, Education, Knowledge & Skills
Previous museum experience as a graphic designer.
Relevant understanding of accessibility and disability requirements for graphic design.
Demonstrated experience with exhibit installations.
Experience creating indoor and outdoor signage.
Demonstrated experience using Professional Imaging Printers.
Demonstrated experience with exhibit fabrication, historic preservation, or construction a plus.

The Successful Candidate Will
A successful candidate will-
Have strong knowledge and experience in graphic design.
Have excellent organizational and communication experience and skill.
Be able to multi-task and work on several projects at one time.
Be able to work in groups but also independently.
Be able to meet deadlines agreed upon with the Director of Exhibits.
Experience working in team settings and independently.
Demonstrated enthusiasm for visual communication with culture and science.
Experience in workflow organization, critical thinking and problem-solving.

Position Special Requirements/Additional Information
Candidate must have a valid Montana State Driver’s License or obtain one within 60 Days of from the date of hire, and meet all requirements for driving State/University Vehicles.

This job description should not be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or requirements, but a general description of the job. Nothing contained herein restricts Montana State University’s rights to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Physical Demands
To perform this job successfully the individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodations. The requirements listed in this description are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required.

This position has supervisory duties? No
Posting Detail Information

Number of Vacancies 1
Desired Start Date Upon a successful search
Position End Date (if temporary)
Open Date
Close Date

Applications will be:
Screening of applications will begin on March 3, 2023; however, applications will continue to be accepted until an adequate applicant pool has been established.

Special Instructions
Diversity Statement

Montana State University values diverse perspectives and is committed to continually supporting, promoting and building an inclusive and culturally diverse campus environment. MSU recognizes the importance of work-life integration and strives to be responsive to the needs of dual career couples.

In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profile.

MSU’s Non-Discrimination Policy and Discrimination Grievance Procedures can be located on the MSU Website: https://www.montana.edu/hr/recruitment/dualcareer.html

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