"Associate Director, Exhibition Design"

Associate Director, Exhibition Design

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the world's preeminent scientific and cultural institutions, and has as its mission to discover, interpret and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education and exhibition.

The Exhibition department is seeking an Associate Director of Exhibition Design. The Associate Director leads 3D design and plays a critical role in developing the overall design vision for each exhibition, assisted by their exceptional 3D design skills, their understanding of exhibition spaces and their ability to manage the exhibition fabrication process from concept to installation. They collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to create compelling and immersive exhibition experiences that adhere to the Museum's mission and can travel to other venues.

Job duties include, but are not limited to:

Concept Development and Design

• Work closely with curators and the exhibition team to translate exhibition concepts into 3D design concepts that consider space, architectural features and constraints of galleries or halls.
• Create detailed plans, layouts, and schematics that optimize the use of exhibition space while ensuring visitor flow and accessibility.
• Develop high-quality 3D renderings and physical scale models that visually communicate design concepts and enable collaboration with graphic designers and media teams.
• Design exhibitions with the understanding that many will travel to other locations, considering standardization of elements, feasibility, durability, and ease of assembly.
• Maintain thorough records of all design and fabrication processes, ensuring accurate documentation for future reference and potential reinstallation.

Project Management and Coordination

• Supervise 3D design staff to assist with all appropriate aspects of the 3D team's work.
• Prepare comprehensive exhibition design packages, including design drawings, specifications, and other materials required to facilitate the bidding process for 3D fabrication.
• Develop installation plans and schedules, coordinating with travel installation teams to ensure a seamless and safe setup.
• Art-direct the in-house preparators in the creation of scaled models for the exhibitions.

Fabrication and Construction Oversight

• Identify, select, and manage fabricators, suppliers, and contractors, ensuring they meet quality, budget, and timeline requirements.
• Inspect the fabrication process to ensure that all elements align with the approved design and projects are high-quality and completed accurately.
• Manage the exhibition fabrication budget, tracking expenses and developing value engineering options when required and implementing cost-effective solutions.

Lighting and Special Elements

• Manage lighting design, lighting equipment purchases, and hire and supervise freelance lighting designers.

The expected salary range for the Associate Director, Exhibition Design is $115,000/annual - $135,000/annual. The AMNH offers an extensive benefits package designed to meet the needs of our dedicated and diverse community.

Pay will be determined based on several factors. The hiring range for the position at commencement is based on the type of work and the scope of responsibilities. The salary and placement offered is based on a number of individualized factors, including, but not limited to, skills, knowledge, training, education, credentials, areas of specialization and depth and scope of experience.

Required Qualifications:

(Not specified in detail)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's degree in Museum Exhibition Planning & Design, Architecture, or a related discipline.
• Architectural / Spatial Design:
  • Space planning and visitor flow optimization within architectural constraints.
  • Familiarity with accessibility standards (ADA compliance) and building codes.
• Fabrication & Installation Oversight:
  • Direct experience working with fabricators and contractors.
  • Reviewing shop drawings, material samples, and prototypes.
  • Supervising or coordinating on-site installations.
• Project & Budget Management:
  • Managing project schedules, budgets, and fabrication bids.
  • Familiarity with procurement processes and contract management.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary teams (graphic, media, lighting, and fabrication).
• Lighting & Media Integration:
  • Understanding of exhibition lighting principles and audiovisual integration.
  • Experience coordinating with lighting designers and AV specialists.
• Traveling Exhibitions:
  • Designing for modularity and reusability.
  • Knowledge of packing, crating, and reinstallation logistics.

To be considered for this position please visit our web site and apply on line at the following link: careers.amnh.org