Experiential Graphic Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer II

Company: CannonDesign

Location: Chicago, IL

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Experiential Graphic Design / Environmental Graphics

Date Posted: 2026-05-16

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the creative vision and execution of compelling environmental graphic design (EGD) solutions for diverse clients, including commercial, healthcare, and sports environments.

• Translate client needs and brand identities into tangible, immersive experiences within the built environment, collaborating closely with interior designers and architects.

• Manage all phases of the EGD design process, from initial concept development and stakeholder engagement through to final artwork production and fabrication documentation.

• Develop and present detailed design concepts, including two- and three-dimensional graphics, signage, wayfinding systems, donor recognition programs, and interpretive exhibits.

• Champion CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy by creating designs that are optimistic, empathetic, and have a positive social impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as an "Experiential Graphic Designer II," suggesting a mid-level professional capable of independent work on design projects and contributing significantly to client-facing deliverables. The emphasis on "Living-Centered Design" and collaboration with architects/interior designers indicates a strong focus on integrated, human-centric design solutions within the built environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Participate in all phases of the design process, from initial concept ideation and client workshops to final artwork preparation for fabrication.

• Develop innovative and impactful design concepts that clearly express a client's mission, purpose, and brand identity through environmental graphics and spatial experiences.

• Create detailed design documentation for a variety of projects, including comprehensive graphic programs, intuitive wayfinding and signage systems, meaningful donor recognition programs, and engaging interpretive exhibits.

• Produce high-quality, camera-ready artwork and specifications suitable for manufacturing and installation, ensuring accuracy and adherence to project standards.

• Prepare compelling visualizations and mockups of proposed signage and graphic content, often integrated into digital models (e.g., Revit, SketchUp), to effectively communicate design intent to clients and project teams.

• Actively engage in client meetings, team calls, and design critiques, contributing to lively discussions and providing insightful feedback to elevate project outcomes.

• Collaborate effectively with design leaders within the Experiential Graphic Design team and across broader project teams, fostering a cohesive and productive working relationship.

• Utilize curiosity, empathy, and intuition to clarify complex ideas, visions, and strategies, translating them into clear and compelling design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design, technical execution, and client/team collaboration. The explicit mention of "camera-ready artwork" and "digital models" (Revit, SketchUp) points to the need for strong technical proficiency and understanding of fabrication processes within the EGD lifecycle.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor degree in Graphic Design, Architecture, or a closely related design field required.

Experience: Minimum of 4 years of relevant professional experience in Experiential Graphic Design, Environmental Graphics, or a similar design-intensive role required.

Required Skills:

• Demonstrated strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of projects across various markets, with a focus on environmental graphics, signage, and wayfinding.

• Exceptional typography skills, with the ability to apply them effectively in spatial and environmental contexts.

• Proven ability to translate client needs and complex ideas into compelling, cohesive visual concepts.

• Robust communication skills, including active listening, clear articulation of design rationale, and effective presentation abilities.

• Demonstrated experience in collaborating within fast-moving, multi-disciplinary project teams, including architects and interior designers.

• Proven skill and keen interest in 3-dimensional design, wayfinding strategy, exhibition design, and the creation of impactful environments.

• Comprehensive understanding and practical experience in all phases of the design process, from research and concept to production.

• Strong analytical and independent thinking capabilities, with the ability to problem-solve creatively and strategically.

• Meticulous attention to detail in design execution, documentation, and production-readiness.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge and experience with Revit for design integration and visualization.

• Familiarity with SketchUp for 3D modeling and presentation of environmental graphics.

• Experience with donor recognition programs and interpretive exhibit design.

• Understanding of materials, fabrication processes, and installation best practices for EGD projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Bachelor's degree and 4 years of experience firmly places this role at a mid-level. The emphasis on specific software (Adobe Suite required, Revit/SketchUp preferred) and 3D/environmental design skills is crucial for applicants to highlight. The "independent thinker" and "analytical" requirements suggest a need for proactive problem-solving beyond pure design execution.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 4 years of relevant design experience, with a strong emphasis on Experiential Graphic Design (EGD) projects.

• Detailed case studies demonstrating successful application of design principles across diverse markets, including commercial workplaces, healthcare, and sports environments.

• Examples of developed graphic programs, wayfinding and signage systems, donor recognition programs, and/or interpretive exhibits, illustrating the full design lifecycle.

• Visualizations and mockups, ideally integrated into digital models (e.g., Revit, SketchUp), that effectively communicate design intent and spatial integration.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of managing design projects through all phases, from initial concept development and client engagement to final artwork production and fabrication documentation.

• Examples of creating detailed design documentation for signage systems, graphic programs, and exhibits, ensuring clarity and accuracy for implementation.

• Demonstrations of producing camera-ready artwork and specifications that meet fabrication requirements.

• Documentation of collaboration with architects, interior designers, and other stakeholders throughout the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role, needing to showcase not just aesthetic ability but also a structured approach to the EGD process, including technical documentation and collaboration. The explicit mention of "camera-ready artwork" and "digital models" suggests a need for portfolio pieces that reflect this technical output.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $56,795 - $70,948 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.

• Voluntary insurance plans.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Flexible-time schedules available.

• Remote work options are offered, supporting a hybrid work arrangement.

• 401k plan with company contributions/matching.

• Access to employee perk programs.

Working Hours: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with flexibility offered through flex-time schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific to the Chicago office. The benefits package is robust, including standard health insurances, retirement savings, and notable flexibility with "flex-time schedules" and "remote work options," aligning with a hybrid work environment. The note about actual compensation varying based on location, experience, and education is a standard disclaimer.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Design Services. CannonDesign operates within the professional services sector, focusing on creating innovative and impactful built environments.

Company Size: CannonDesign is a large firm, indicated by its extensive career site and benefits overview, suggesting a structured and well-resourced organization.

Founded: CannonDesign has a long-standing history, implying a stable and experienced organization with established design methodologies and a commitment to long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Design (EGD) team is a specialized unit within CannonDesign, working in close partnership with interior design and architecture departments.

• The EGD team likely comprises designers at various levels, led by design leaders who oversee project direction and client engagement.

Methodology:

• Living-Centered Design: This is CannonDesign's core philosophy, emphasizing designs that are human-centric, optimistic, empathetic, and have a positive social impact, aiming to reshape the world for the better.

• Integrated Design Process: The role involves close collaboration with architects and interior designers, suggesting a holistic approach to design where EGD is considered from the early stages of a project.

• Data-Driven Insights: While not explicitly stated for this role, a firm of this caliber likely uses data and research to inform design decisions, particularly in understanding user behavior and optimizing spatial experiences.

Company Website: http://www.cannondesign.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Living-Centered Design" is a significant cultural differentiator for CannonDesign. Applicants should understand and be able to articulate how their EGD work aligns with creating positive human experiences and social impact. The company's size and established history suggest a professional environment with clear processes and opportunities for structured growth.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role, "Experiential Graphic Designer II," represents a mid-career professional. It implies a level of autonomy in design execution, the ability to manage specific project tasks, and a growing capacity for client interaction and contribution to strategic design thinking. It's a step beyond entry-level design support, requiring independent problem-solving and a solid understanding of the EGD process.

Reporting Structure: The Experiential Graphic Designer II will likely report to a Design Leader or Principal within the EGD team. They will also collaborate closely with project managers and principals from the architecture and interior design disciplines, acting as a key contributor to broader project teams.

Operations Impact: The EGD team's work directly impacts how users interact with and perceive a physical space. This role contributes to enhancing client brand identity, improving navigation and user experience within buildings, and creating memorable, functional environments. The success of EGD initiatives is often measured by client satisfaction, user engagement, and the effective communication of brand and purpose through design.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific areas of EGD, such as wayfinding strategy, exhibition design, or digital integration within physical spaces.

• Leadership: Progress to Senior Experiential Graphic Designer roles, taking on greater project leadership, client management responsibilities, and mentorship of junior designers.

• Cross-Disciplinary Skill Development: Gain further proficiency in areas like architectural integration, digital modeling (Revit, SketchUp), and potentially project management, broadening the scope of contribution.

• Client Engagement: Enhance skills in client presentation, strategic consultation, and business development within the EGD practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" in the title signifies a progression from an entry-level role. Growth opportunities are likely focused on deepening EGD expertise, taking on more complex projects, and potentially moving into leadership positions within the EGD team or broader project leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: CannonDesign offers a hybrid work environment. This means employees will split their time between working remotely and in the office. The office space is designed to foster collaboration and facilitate in-person interactions essential for design critique and team synergy.

Office Location(s): The specific role is based in Chicago, IL. CannonDesign has multiple offices, but this position is tied to their Chicago presence.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office setting is designed to encourage teamwork and spontaneous idea sharing, crucial for the creative process in EGD.

• Tools and Technology: Employees will have access to the necessary design software (Adobe Suite, potentially Revit/SketchUp) and hardware (Mac systems) required for their roles.

• Team Interaction: The hybrid model allows for regular face-to-face interaction with EGD team members, architects, and interior designers, fostering strong working relationships and facilitating effective communication on complex projects.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but the "flex-time schedules" offer a degree of adaptability, allowing professionals to manage their time effectively while ensuring project deliverables and collaborative needs are met. This flexibility is beneficial for balancing deep work sessions with the demands of collaborative design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role is a key aspect of the work environment. Applicants should be comfortable with a blend of remote and in-office work, understanding that in-office days are likely focused on collaborative activities, team meetings, and design reviews.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and alignment with the role's requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely present their portfolio, discussing key projects, their role in each, design rationale, process, and outcomes. This is a critical step to evaluate design thinking, technical skills, and communication abilities.

• Team Interviews: Interviews with members of the Experiential Graphic Design team and potentially architects or interior designers to assess technical fit, collaborative style, and cultural alignment.

• Leadership Interview: A final interview with a senior leader (e.g., Design Director, Principal) to discuss strategic thinking, career aspirations, and overall fit with CannonDesign's mission and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest EGD projects that best demonstrate your skills in typography, 3D design, wayfinding, and environmental graphics. Ensure a mix of project types if possible (commercial, healthcare, sports).

• Showcase Process: For each project, clearly outline the client brief, your role, the design challenges, your problem-solving approach, key design decisions, and the final outcome. Visuals should include concept sketches, mood boards, process work, technical drawings, and high-quality renderings/photos of the installed work.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Include examples of detailed documentation, such as signage specifications, graphic program layouts, or integrations with architectural models, demonstrating your ability to produce camera-ready artwork.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, discuss the impact of your designs – how they improved user experience, reinforced brand identity, or achieved client objectives. Use metrics if available, or articulate qualitative results.

• Tailor to CannonDesign: Emphasize projects that align with CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy – those that focus on human experience, empathy, and positive social impact.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to translating brand strategy into spatial design.

• Anticipate questions about how you handle constructive criticism and feedback within a collaborative team.

• Review CannonDesign's website and recent projects to understand their aesthetic and philosophy. Be ready to articulate how your design approach aligns with their "Living-Centered Design" ethos.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio presentation is paramount. Candidates should prepare to walk through their work methodically, explaining not just what they designed but why and how, emphasizing their role and the impact of their contributions. Demonstrating an understanding of CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy will be key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Expert proficiency is mandatory in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for graphic creation, layout, and artwork production.

• 3D Modeling Software: SketchUp is listed as a plus, indicating its utility for conceptualizing and visualizing spatial graphics.

• Architectural/BIM Software: Revit is listed as a plus, suggesting its increasing importance for integrating EGD elements seamlessly within architectural designs and digital models.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, or internal CannonDesign systems) may be beneficial for tracking project progress and deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirement is a mastery of the Adobe Creative Suite. Proficiency in Revit and SketchUp will significantly enhance an applicant's candidacy, indicating an ability to work within architectural design workflows and create more integrated spatial visualizations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Living-Centered Design: A fundamental value driving all work, focusing on creating spaces that benefit occupants and communities, emphasizing optimism, empathy, and social impact.

• Client Adoration: A commitment to exceeding client expectations, not just achieving satisfaction, by consistently delivering exceptional service and impactful design solutions.

• Collaboration and Transparency: An open environment where ideas are shared freely, communication is encouraged, and constructive critique is welcomed to foster innovation and problem-solving.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (DEI): A strong commitment to fostering an inclusive practice through DEI Council leadership, Employee Resource Groups, and community initiatives, ensuring a diverse and equitable workplace.

• Innovation and Problem-Solving: A culture that embraces curiosity and encourages creative approaches to tackle complex challenges in the built environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teamwork: EGD professionals work hand-in-hand with architects and interior designers, requiring a collaborative approach that prioritizes shared goals and mutual respect.

• Open Communication: Expect regular team meetings, design critiques, and open dialogue channels to ensure all voices are heard and that projects benefit from diverse perspectives.

• Feedback Culture: The firm values lively design critique, suggesting a culture where constructive feedback is regularly exchanged to refine designs and elevate the overall quality of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Living-Centered Design," "Client Adoration," and "DEI" are core cultural pillars. Applicants should be prepared to discuss how their personal values and work style align with these principles, particularly how they approach design with empathy and a focus on human experience.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Client Needs: Effectively translating abstract client goals and brand strategies into tangible, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environmental graphics requires strong conceptual thinking and client management skills.

• Integrating EGD into Complex Architectural Frameworks: Ensuring seamless integration of graphic elements within architectural and interior design plans, especially when working with BIM software like Revit, can be technically demanding.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Collaborating with multiple internal teams (architecture, interiors) and external stakeholders (clients, fabricators) requires excellent communication and negotiation skills to align on design and project goals.

• Keeping Pace with Evolving Design Trends and Technologies: The field of EGD is constantly evolving with new materials, digital integrations, and user experience expectations, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen EGD Specialization: Opportunities to become an expert in specific EGD niches such as wayfinding strategy, exhibit design, or digital environmental graphics.

• Cross-Disciplinary Training: Gain exposure and training in architectural design principles, BIM software (Revit), and project management methodologies.

• Mentorship Programs: Benefit from guidance from experienced design leaders within the EGD team and across other disciplines.

• Industry Engagement: Potential for participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional development events to stay abreast of best practices and emerging trends in experiential design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for strong interpersonal skills, technical adaptability, and a proactive approach to learning. Growth opportunities are clearly geared towards advancing technical expertise and expanding professional influence within the firm and the broader design industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you translated a client's complex brand identity into a compelling environmental graphic design solution. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your conceptualization, execution, and impact.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with architects and interior designers to ensure your EGD concepts are seamlessly integrated into the built environment?" (Highlight your understanding of integrated design and interdisciplinary communication.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does your design philosophy align with CannonDesign's 'Living-Centered Design' ethos?" (Be prepared to connect your personal values and work examples to empathy, optimism, and social impact.)

• "Describe your ideal team environment and how you contribute to a collaborative and transparent culture." (Emphasize your ability to give and receive constructive feedback and work effectively in a team.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Flow: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (client brief/challenge), middle (your process, solutions, and rationale), and end (outcome, impact, and lessons learned).

• Visual Clarity: Use high-resolution images and clear graphics. Ensure any technical drawings or mockups are legible and effectively communicate your design intent.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially in team-based work.

• Highlight EGD Specifics: Emphasize how you addressed wayfinding, branding, spatial experience, and material/fabrication considerations.

• Engage Your Audience: Be enthusiastic, articulate, and ready to answer detailed questions about your design decisions and technical execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on articulating your design process, problem-solving capabilities, and how your work embodies CannonDesign's core values, especially "Living-Centered Design." The portfolio presentation is your primary tool for demonstrating these aspects.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer II position:

• Visit the CannonDesign careers site and submit your application through their official portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature 4-7 of your strongest Experiential Graphic Design projects that align with the role's requirements, emphasizing wayfinding, signage, and environmental branding. Ensure each project clearly outlines the brief, your role, challenges, design process, and impact.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 4+ years of relevant experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience with 3D design, Revit, or SketchUp. Use keywords from the job description such as "Experiential Graphic Design," "Wayfinding," "Environmental Graphics," and "Typography."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design philosophy and how it aligns with CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" and "Client Adoration" values. Prepare to walk through your portfolio with confidence, explaining your design decisions and problem-solving strategies.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review CannonDesign's website, paying close attention to their "Living-Centered Design" philosophy, recent projects, and their approach to collaboration and DEI. Understand their market sectors (commercial, healthcare, sports) and be ready to discuss how your experience fits.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.