Experiential Graphic Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer II

Company: Cooper Carry

Location: Denver, CO, USA

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Experiential Graphic Design / Environmental Graphic Design

Date Posted: September 18, 2026

Experience Level: 3-5+ years professional experience

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develop and execute high-quality design and technical solutions for experiential and environmental graphic projects.

• Collaborate effectively with senior designers and studio leaders to achieve project objectives and client satisfaction.

• Contribute to the full design lifecycle, from conceptualization and branding to detailed documentation and production.

• Uphold Cooper Carry's professional standards and contribute to a positive, collaborative team environment.

• Gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software and documentation practices within the architectural and built environment context.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically for an early-career designer focused on experiential and environmental graphics, requiring a blend of creative design skills and technical documentation abilities within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. The emphasis on working independently with direction suggests a need for strong self-management and proactive problem-solving.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality design deliverables, including drawings, renderings, and presentations, adhering to Cooper Carry's and client-specific guidelines.

• Refine and apply skills in drawing, rendering, visual design, and presentation techniques using internal standards and best practices.

• Develop proficiency in essential computer software, including Adobe Creative Suite, CAD Tools, SketchUp, and Microsoft Office Suite, for design and documentation tasks.

• Make informed design and documentation decisions with discretion and sound judgment, under the guidance of senior team members.

• Prepare and produce detailed drawings, designs, and construction documents, including intricate details and specifications, with appropriate assistance.

• Design and develop logos and branding elements specifically tailored for the built environment.

• Accept direction and task assignments from others, demonstrating a task-oriented approach to project contributions.

• Acquire and apply knowledge of municipal signage codes, fabrication construction methods, and general architectural documentation standards.

• Perform foundational project and studio tasks, such as taking meeting minutes, maintaining studio libraries, and managing project message schedules, to build process understanding.

• Ensure all designs comply with applicable codes and regulations, including municipal signage codes, fabrication standards, and general architectural documentation requirements.

• Manage multiple projects and tasks simultaneously, demonstrating effective time management and organizational skills.

• Work both independently and collaboratively as part of a project team, contributing to overall project success.

• Attend and actively participate in project meetings and client presentations, taking detailed notes and contributing to discussions.

• Maintain organized project filing systems and email documentation for efficient record-keeping.

• Facilitate client correspondence, ensuring clear communication and proper team/leadership notification.

• Demonstrate a willingness to continuously learn, accept feedback, and incorporate constructive criticism from peers, senior designers, and studio leaders.

• Represent Cooper Carry professionally in all interactions and support studio initiatives, including social media content creation and project promotion.

• Seek opportunities for professional development and growth within the experiential graphic design industry.

• Develop and maintain an up-to-date knowledge of Cooper Carry's projects, resources, and capabilities.

• Contribute to and support the overall success of the Experiential Graphic Design studio and the firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on design execution and administrative/support tasks, indicating a role that bridges creative output with project management fundamentals. The expectation to "assist in mentoring entry level designers" while reporting to senior staff suggests a junior leadership or peer-guidance component.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Graduate of an accredited design program with a Bachelor's level degree or equivalent professional design experience.

• Degrees in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, Environmental Graphics, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or a closely related design field are preferred. Experience:

• 3-5+ years of professional experience specifically within the experiential/environmental graphic design industry.

• Demonstrated ability to understand and create design drawings to required architectural scales.

• Foundational knowledge of all design phases, from conceptualization through detailed documentation.

• Proven track record of producing high-quality design work. Required Skills:

• Experiential Graphic Design: Deep understanding of designing for physical spaces and user experiences.

• Environmental Graphic Design: Proficiency in integrating graphics and wayfinding into architectural environments.

• Adobe Creative Suite: Advanced skills in Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for design and production.

• CAD Tools: Competency in AutoCAD or similar for technical drawing and documentation.

• SketchUp: Ability to create 3D models for visualization and design development.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for project management and presentations.

• Rendering Techniques: Ability to produce compelling visual representations of design concepts.

• Design Documentation: Skill in preparing detailed drawings, specifications, and construction documents.

• Brand Development: Experience in creating logos and visual identities for the built environment.

• Visual Communication: Strong ability to convey design ideas effectively through various media.

Preferred Skills:

• Signage Codes: Familiarity with municipal signage regulations and permitting processes.

• Fabrication Methods: Understanding of materials and construction techniques for signage and environmental graphics.

• Architectural Documentation: Knowledge of architectural drawing conventions and standards.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Basic understanding of project timelines, deliverables, and client coordination.

• Client Engagement: Experience actively participating in client meetings and presentations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of creative talent and technical acumen, crucial for translating design concepts into tangible built environments. The specific software requirements are critical for operations professionals to highlight in their resumes and portfolios.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 years of professional work demonstrating expertise in Experiential and Environmental Graphic Design.

• Include detailed case studies that illustrate the design process from concept to final execution, highlighting problem-solving approaches.

• Present a range of projects, including branding for the built environment, wayfinding systems, and interior graphics.

• Clearly articulate your role and contributions in each project, especially regarding design decisions, technical documentation, and collaboration.

• Demonstrate proficiency in core software (Adobe Creative Suite, CAD, SketchUp) through the quality and complexity of the presented work. Process Documentation:

• For each case study, provide insights into your workflow, including:

  • Conceptualization and ideation phases, detailing how initial ideas were developed.

  • Design development stages, showing iterative refinements and decision-making processes.

  • Technical documentation preparation, including examples of drawings, details, and specifications.

  • Collaboration with other disciplines (e.g., architects, interior designers) and how you managed interdisciplinary communication.

  • Understanding and application of relevant codes and fabrication standards in the design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is paramount for this role, as it directly demonstrates the candidate's ability to execute complex design projects within the built environment. The emphasis on process documentation is key for operations professionals to showcase their structured approach to design and problem-solving.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $75,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with potential company match.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued learning, workshops, and industry event attendance.

• Work-Life Balance: Supportive environment promoting a healthy balance between professional and personal life.

• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected, typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be available, but the role requires on-site presence for collaborative work and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range aligns with an early-career to mid-level designer role in a major metropolitan area like Denver, considering the specific industry focus. The benefits listed are standard for full-time professional positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Design, and Planning. Cooper Carry is a renowned architecture and design firm with a strong presence in various sectors, including mixed-use, hospitality, residential, and corporate. Their experiential graphic design studio plays a critical role in enhancing brand identity and user experience within these built environments.

Company Size: Cooper Carry is a large, established firm, likely employing hundreds of professionals across multiple offices. This size offers stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for diverse project exposure.

Founded: Cooper Carry was founded in 1964, indicating a long history of innovation and a deep understanding of the architectural and design landscape. This legacy suggests a culture that values experience, mentorship, and enduring design principles.

Team Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Design Studio operates as a specialized unit within Cooper Carry.

• Designers will report directly to a Team Leader, Senior Designer, and/or Studio Leader, facilitating clear guidance and project oversight.

• While this role has no direct supervisory responsibilities, there's an expectation to mentor entry-level designers, fostering a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment.

• Cross-functional collaboration is intrinsic, as the studio works closely with architectural, interior design, and other project teams to integrate experiential graphics seamlessly into larger projects. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While not explicitly stated, a modern design firm like Cooper Carry likely leverages client briefs, user research, and site analysis to inform design decisions.

• Iterative Design Process: The responsibilities suggest a structured approach involving conceptualization, refinement, documentation, and client feedback loops.

• Collaboration and Integration: Emphasis on working with other disciplines highlights a process that prioritizes seamless integration of experiential graphics into the broader architectural vision.

Company Website: https://www.coopercarry.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Cooper Carry's established presence and large size suggest a structured, professional environment with clear career paths. The Experiential Graphic Design Studio's integration into broader architectural projects means this role offers significant exposure to large-scale, impactful design work.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is classified as an "Experiential Graphic Designer II," representing an early-to-mid-level role within the design hierarchy. It signifies a designer who has moved beyond foundational tasks and can independently manage specific design and documentation responsibilities with guidance. The role is a stepping stone towards becoming a Senior Designer or Studio Leader.

Reporting Structure: The designer will report to a Team Leader, Senior Designer, and/or Studio Leader. This layered reporting structure ensures ample mentorship and guidance while allowing for exposure to different leadership styles and project management approaches. This structure is common in large design firms to provide comprehensive support and development.

Operations Impact: The Experiential Graphic Designer II directly impacts projects by translating architectural concepts into engaging and functional visual experiences. Their work influences brand perception, user navigation, and the overall atmosphere of built environments. They contribute to the firm's reputation by delivering high-quality, impactful design solutions that enhance client projects and attract new business.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like wayfinding, digital integration, or material application within experiential graphics.

• Project Leadership: Progress to leading design efforts on smaller projects or specific components of larger projects as a Senior Designer.

• Mentorship Development: Hone leadership and communication skills by continuing to mentor junior designers and potentially taking on project lead responsibilities.

• Industry Engagement: Join professional organizations (recommended) to expand network, stay abreast of industry trends, and potentially gain leadership roles within those organizations.

• Firm-Wide Advancement: Explore opportunities within Cooper Carry's broader design studios or specialized teams as experience and interests evolve.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for an Experiential Graphic Designer II at a firm like Cooper Carry is typically focused on deepening technical and design skills, gaining project management experience, and developing leadership qualities necessary for senior roles and project ownership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role within a professional design studio environment. Cooper Carry's offices are typically modern, collaborative spaces designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): The position is located in Denver, Colorado, specifically within the 80202 zip code, which is in the downtown Denver area. This location offers access to a vibrant urban environment and potential client sites within the city and surrounding region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect an open-plan or semi-private studio setting that encourages interaction, brainstorming, and peer feedback among designers.

• Tools and Technology: Access to industry-standard hardware (high-performance workstations) and software (Adobe Creative Suite, CAD, SketchUp) will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction with fellow designers, project managers, and senior leadership, facilitating knowledge sharing and skill development.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week, operating within typical business hours.

• While the role is primarily on-site, occasional travel to job sites or meetings may be required, necessitating flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a metropolitan hub like Denver suggests a dynamic work environment with ample opportunities for professional interaction and exposure to diverse projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the job requirements.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely present their portfolio to a panel of designers and studio leadership. This will involve discussing design rationale, process, technical skills, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to articulate your specific contributions to each project.

• Technical Assessment: You may be asked to complete a design exercise or a technical challenge related to drafting, rendering, or problem-solving within experiential graphics.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions will assess your teamwork, communication skills, adaptability, and alignment with Cooper Carry's culture and values.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or studio head to discuss career aspirations and overall fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 4-6 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills in experiential and environmental graphic design, specifically highlighting your 3-5 years of professional experience.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, the process, your design solutions, and the final outcome/impact. Use visuals effectively.

• Highlight Technical Skills: Include examples of detailed drawings, construction documents, and renderings that demonstrate your proficiency in CAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.

• Showcase Branding: If you have experience developing logos and brand identities for the built environment, make sure to feature these.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you can, mention any measurable outcomes or positive feedback received for your projects.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize projects that align with Cooper Carry's portfolio and the specific requirements of the Experiential Graphic Designer II role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Practice Technical Skills: Brush up on your CAD drafting, SketchUp modeling, and Adobe Creative Suite proficiency. Be ready to demonstrate these skills under pressure.

• Develop a Case Study: Prepare a detailed walkthrough of one or two key projects from your portfolio, focusing on your problem-solving process and design decisions.

• Understand Industry Codes: Familiarize yourself with common signage codes and fabrication considerations relevant to environmental graphics.

• Research Cooper Carry: Understand their project types, design philosophy, and recent work. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and interests align with their firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is heavily focused on a candidate's ability to demonstrate their design process, technical proficiency, and collaborative capabilities through their portfolio and direct discussion. Practical application and problem-solving are key.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Essential for graphic design, layout, and image manipulation (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• CAD Tools: Critical for technical drawings, architectural scale plans, and construction documents (e.g., AutoCAD).

• SketchUp: Widely used for 3D modeling, visualization, and spatial design concepts.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Necessary for project management, documentation, presentations, and communication (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this design role, understanding how to interpret project briefs and client requirements (which may involve data on user behavior or space utilization) is beneficial.

• Proficiency in creating clear and visually effective presentation materials is key for reporting design progress and outcomes. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the design tasks, but familiarity with project management software used by the firm (likely integrated into their AEC workflow) might be beneficial for task tracking and communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is centered around industry-standard design and documentation software, emphasizing the need for hands-on technical proficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A commitment to producing high-quality, innovative, and impactful design solutions that meet client needs and push creative boundaries.

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and cross-disciplinary integration to achieve project success.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding client objectives and delivering solutions that enhance their brand and user experience.

• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of conduct, communication, and work ethic in all interactions.

• Continuous Learning: A culture that encourages ongoing skill development, feedback, and adaptation to new technologies and industry trends.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teamwork: Designers work closely with architects, interior designers, and other specialists, requiring clear communication and a shared vision for project outcomes.

• Feedback-Driven: An environment where constructive criticism is welcomed and used to refine designs and improve project deliverables.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of sharing best practices, techniques, and insights among team members to foster collective growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: Cooper Carry likely fosters a culture that balances individual creative contribution with the collaborative demands of large-scale architectural projects, emphasizing both design quality and effective teamwork.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Technical Constraints: Effectively translating innovative design concepts into feasible solutions that adhere to architectural scales, codes, and fabrication limitations.

• Managing Multiple Project Demands: Juggling the requirements of various projects simultaneously, ensuring all deadlines are met without compromising design quality.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Navigating complex communication and integration with diverse project teams (architects, engineers, clients) to ensure seamless execution of experiential graphics.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new design software, fabrication methods, and digital integration techniques in the built environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized CAD, 3D modeling, or rendering software.

• Industry Conferences and Workshops: Participation in events focused on experiential graphics, environmental design, and signage to gain insights and network.

• Mentorship from Senior Designers: Direct guidance and learning from experienced professionals on complex projects and career development strategies.

• Exposure to Diverse Project Types: Working on a wide range of projects (e.g., corporate campuses, cultural institutions, retail spaces) to broaden design experience and portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers significant opportunities for professional growth by tackling complex design challenges and benefiting from the resources and expertise of a large, established firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a project where you had to balance a strong creative vision with significant technical or code-related constraints. How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical understanding, and compromise.)

• "Walk us through your process for developing a branding concept for a new building or public space. What factors do you consider?" (Highlight your conceptualization, research, and execution steps.)

• "How do you ensure your design documentation is clear, accurate, and usable for fabricators and construction teams?" (Emphasize attention to detail, technical drawing skills, and understanding of construction standards.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Cooper Carry's work, specifically our Experiential Graphic Design studio?" (Research their portfolio and recent projects; connect your skills to their work.)

• "How do you approach collaboration with architects and interior designers, especially when there might be differing opinions on design direction?" (Focus on communication, compromise, and shared project goals.)

• "Describe a time you received constructive criticism on your design. How did you handle it, and what did you learn?" (Show receptiveness to feedback and a growth mindset.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the client's challenge, your specific role, the design process, key decisions, and the final resolution.

• Highlight Technical Proficiency: Be ready to discuss the specific software and techniques used for drawings, renderings, and documentation. Show detailed examples.

• Emphasize Collaboration: If applicable, discuss how you worked with other team members or disciplines.

• Be Ready for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving methods, and technical skills. Practice concise and clear answers.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the design and documentation process, effective collaboration, and a clear alignment with Cooper Carry's project types and values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer II position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Ultipro recruiting portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 3-5+ years of experience in experiential and environmental graphic design. Use keywords from the job description such as "Adobe Creative Suite," "CAD Tools," "SketchUp," "Design Documentation," and "Brand Development." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your skills in conceptualization, design development, technical documentation, and client engagement. Ensure it is well-organized and easily navigable.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice walking through 2-3 key portfolio projects, focusing on your process, design rationale, and technical execution. Be ready to discuss your specific contributions.

• Research Cooper Carry: Familiarize yourself with their firm's history, design philosophy, and recent projects, particularly those related to experiential graphics. Understand their values and culture.

⚠️ 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.

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