Experiential Graphic Designer III

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer III

Company: CannonDesign

Location: United States - Remote

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Experiential Graphic Design / Architecture & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 16, 2026

Experience Level: 7+ Years

Remote Status: Fully Remote (Preference for candidates near CannonDesign locations)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the full lifecycle of experiential graphic design projects, from initial concept development through final artwork production for diverse client types including commercial, healthcare, and sports environments.

• Translate complex client needs and visions into compelling 2D and 3D graphic solutions, including integrated signage, wayfinding systems, donor recognition programs, and interpretive exhibits.

• Drive the creation of extraordinary, joyful, and memorable spatial experiences by collaborating closely with renowned architects, interior designers, and other project stakeholders.

• Champion the firm's "Living-Centered Design" movement by applying curiosity, empathy, and intuition to clarify complex ideas and deliver impactful design outcomes.

• Utilize superior technical know-how and creative expertise to develop and produce camera-ready artwork for fabrication, ensuring seamless integration into the built environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the "Operations" framework of a design firm, focusing on the execution and delivery of design projects rather than pure client acquisition or business development. The emphasis is on the operational aspects of design production, stakeholder coordination, and process management within a design lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conceptualize and develop innovative design solutions that express a client's mission, purpose, and brand identity across various media types.

• Execute projects from strategic concept through storyboard and final design, ensuring a cohesive and impactful user experience.

• Design detailed two- and three-dimensional graphics, signage, wayfinding systems, donor recognition programs, and interpretive exhibits.

• Prepare comprehensive documentation for design projects, including graphic programs and signage plans, under the guidance of senior design leaders.

• Produce technically accurate, camera-ready artwork suitable for fabrication by vendors and manufacturing partners.

• Actively participate in internal and external platform sharing of the team's work, including design award submissions and social media promotion.

• Coordinate effectively with a diverse range of vendors, fabricators, and outside consultants to ensure project quality and timely delivery.

• Develop and prepare visualizations and mockups of proposed signage and graphic content, often integrated into digital models for client review.

• Engage in lively design critiques and team calls, contributing to a collaborative and iterative design process.

• Explore and integrate best practices in experiential graphic design, sharing knowledge and insights with the team and the broader firm.

• Support senior design leaders within the EGD (Experiential Graphic Design) team and contribute to larger project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative execution and project coordination, typical of a mid-to-senior level designer in an operations-focused role. The emphasis on "documentation" and "coordination with vendors/fabricators" points to the operational rigor required for successful project delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in experiential graphic design or a related field.

• Demonstrated experience across the full design process for medium to large-scale projects.

Required Skills:

• Exceptional design portfolio showcasing a strong background in a variety of markets and a proven ability in experiential graphic design.

• Strong command of typography and its application in spatial and environmental contexts.

• Demonstrated skill and a clear interest in 3-dimensional design, wayfinding strategy, exhibition design, and environmental graphics.

• Robust communication skills with a proven track record of effective collaboration in fast-moving, complex project teams.

• Proficiency in Mac operating systems.

• Mastery of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for design creation and production.

• Analytical mindset with the ability to think independently and solve complex design challenges.

Preferred Skills:

• Working knowledge and practical experience with Revit for integrating graphics into architectural models.

• Familiarity with SketchUp for 3D modeling and visualization.

• Basic understanding of project management principles and methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of 7+ years and the preference for specific market experience suggest this role is for a designer who can operate with significant autonomy and contribute to strategic project planning, indicating a senior operational capacity within the design team.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio that clearly demonstrates expertise in experiential graphic design, wayfinding strategy, and environmental graphics.

• Showcase a range of projects, from concept development through final artwork and implementation, highlighting the applicant's role and contributions.

• Include case studies that illustrate the application of 2D and 3D design principles in built environments.

• Demonstrate proficiency in translating client briefs into compelling visual narratives and functional design solutions.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating detailed design documentation for graphic programs, wayfinding, and signage systems.

• Examples of developing specifications for fabrication and production.

• Documentation that reflects collaboration with architectural models and digital visualizations.

• Showcase of how design processes were managed from concept to final artwork production.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio is critical for demonstrating not just aesthetic capability but also the operational understanding of design execution in physical spaces. It needs to show how concepts are translated into actionable plans for fabrication and installation, reflecting a mature design process.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $68,265 to $85,285 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.

• Voluntary insurance programs.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO).

• Flex-time schedules supporting work-life balance.

• Remote work options, providing flexibility in work location.

• 401k retirement savings plan.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with potential for flex-time schedules. This suggests a focus on output and project delivery rather than strict adherence to a 9-to-5 schedule, allowing for operational flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an anticipated range for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on geographic location (even for remote roles, some companies adjust based on cost of living), work experience, education level, and specific skill set. The benefits package is robust, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and work-life integration, which is attractive for operations professionals who often manage demanding project timelines.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Design Services. CannonDesign operates within a sector that requires high levels of collaboration, creativity, and technical expertise. The focus on "Living-Centered Design" indicates a commitment to human-centric solutions and social impact.

Company Size: CannonDesign is a large, established firm with a significant global presence, employing thousands of professionals. This size implies structured processes, diverse opportunities, and a robust organizational framework for design operations.

Founded: While the exact founding date isn't provided, CannonDesign has a long history, suggesting stability, established methodologies, and a deep understanding of the design industry.

Team Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Design (EGD) team is likely composed of specialized designers with expertise in various facets of environmental graphics, wayfinding, and exhibit design.

• This role involves collaboration with senior design leaders within the EGD team, indicating a hierarchical structure with opportunities for mentorship and advancement.

Methodology:

• The firm's commitment to "Living-Centered Design" suggests a methodology that prioritizes user experience, empathy, and social impact in all design decisions.

• Operations within the design teams likely involve a structured process from concept to production, emphasizing clear documentation, stakeholder alignment, and quality control.

• Data-driven insights might be applied to understand user behavior and inform design choices, particularly in healthcare and educational environments.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "Living-Centered Design" and client adoration points to a culture that values deep client relationships and impactful, user-focused outcomes. For operations professionals, this means understanding the firm's unique approach to design delivery and client engagement.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as "III," indicating a mid-to-senior level position. It requires significant independent work, conceptual leadership, and the ability to guide projects from inception to completion. It suggests a professional who can mentor junior staff and contribute to the operational strategy of the EGD team.

Reporting Structure: The Experiential Graphic Designer III will likely report to a Senior EGD Leader or Director. They will also collaborate closely with project managers and lead architects/interior designers on specific client projects, highlighting a matrixed reporting and collaboration structure common in large design firms.

Operations Impact: The role directly impacts project success by translating design concepts into tangible, functional, and aesthetically compelling environments. This involves ensuring design integrity, adherence to client objectives, and seamless integration with architectural and interior design elements, thereby influencing client satisfaction and the overall project outcome.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in project management within design, vendor/fabricator relations, and advanced EGD software applications.

• Leadership Development: Potential to transition into senior design leadership roles, managing larger projects, mentoring junior designers, and contributing to team operational strategy.

• Market Specialization: Ability to further specialize in high-demand sectors like Healthcare, Education, or Commercial design, becoming a subject matter expert.

• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to architectural and interior design processes can broaden understanding of integrated project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "III" designation implies a level of autonomy and responsibility that goes beyond execution, touching on operational planning and problem-solving within the design process. Growth here is likely tied to increasing project complexity, leadership scope, and strategic input into the EGD team's operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the role is listed as "Remote OK" and preference may be given to candidates near CannonDesign locations, it implies a hybrid model where remote work is standard, but occasional on-site presence or collaboration with physical offices might be beneficial or required for specific project phases or team meetings.

Office Location(s): CannonDesign has multiple physical office locations across the United States. While the specific "preference" locations are not detailed, candidates near any of their major hubs (e.g., Chicago, New York, Los Angeles, Boston, St. Louis, etc.) might be considered.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Even in a remote setting, the role demands active participation in team calls and design critiques, fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

• Tools & Technology: Access to and proficiency in industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite) and potentially BIM-related tools (Revit) are assumed, reflecting a tech-enabled operational setup.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual interaction with EGD team members, architects, and interior designers provides opportunities for cross-disciplinary learning and problem-solving.

Work Schedule:

• While likely a standard 40-hour work week, the mention of "flex-time schedules" and "remote work options" indicates a results-oriented environment where the focus is on project completion and quality rather than strict adherence to rigid hours. This flexibility is beneficial for managing complex design operations and personal work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote-first nature combined with a preference for proximity to physical offices suggests a flexible operational model. Candidates should be prepared for virtual collaboration and potentially occasional travel for key meetings or site visits if proximity is a factor.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

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

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing their role in specific projects, design process, problem-solving approaches, and outcomes. This is a critical step to evaluate design thinking and operational execution.

• Technical/Skills Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or exercise to assess proficiency in software (Adobe Suite) and ability to apply design principles to a given brief.

• Behavioral Interviews: Questions focused on collaboration, problem-solving, communication, and alignment with the firm's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy.

• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with EGD team members, architects, and/or senior leadership to assess cultural fit and collaborative potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience in experiential graphics, wayfinding, 3D design, and relevant market sectors (Healthcare, Education, Commercial).

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions, responsibilities, and decision-making processes for each project.

• Showcase Process: Include sketches, storyboards, concept development stages, and documentation to illustrate your design journey and operational approach.

• Highlight Outcomes: Quantify results where possible (e.g., improved user flow, enhanced brand recognition, successful fabrication).

• Technical Proficiency: Ensure your portfolio reflects mastery of Adobe Creative Suite and any mentioned preferred software.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to translating abstract concepts into concrete design solutions for the built environment.

• Practice articulating your design rationale, problem-solving strategies, and how you handle feedback and critiques.

• Familiarize yourself with CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy and be ready to discuss how your work aligns with it.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize the candidate's portfolio for evidence of operational understanding—how they manage design projects from concept to production, coordinate with external partners, and deliver tangible results within the built environment.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign): Essential for all aspects of graphic design, from concept development to final artwork production. Proficiency is a must.

• 3D Design Software (SketchUp, potentially others): Valuable for creating visualizations, mockups, and understanding spatial relationships in environments.

• BIM Software (Revit): A plus, indicating the ability to integrate experiential graphics directly into architectural project models, streamlining collaboration and execution.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the designer role itself, but understanding how design projects fit within the firm's overall client relationship management and business development processes can be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technology stack revolves around design creation and production tools. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Experience with 3D modeling and BIM software significantly enhances a candidate's operational value in this role, allowing for better integration and visualization within architectural contexts.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client Adoration: A relentless pursuit of exceeding client expectations, ensuring satisfaction through exceptional service and impactful design delivery.

• Living-Centered Design: A core philosophy emphasizing human-centricity, empathy, social impact, and well-being in all design solutions.

• Curiosity, Empathy, Intuition: Valued traits for understanding complex challenges and developing innovative, user-focused concepts.

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, detailed, and technically sound design outcomes.

• Collaboration & Transparency: Open communication and a willingness to share ideas and challenges within teams.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with architects, interior designers, engineers, and fabricators is fundamental to successful experiential graphic design projects.

• Design Critique Culture: An environment where constructive feedback is actively sought and given to refine designs and elevate project quality.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the dissemination of best practices, new techniques, and insights across the EGD team and the wider firm.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "client adoration" and "Living-Centered Design" suggests a culture that is both client-focused and deeply invested in the human impact of their work. For operations, this translates to a need for meticulous project execution that aligns with these core values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Translating Abstract Concepts: The primary challenge is translating clients' abstract visions, missions, and purposes into tangible, compelling 2D and 3D graphic experiences.

• Balancing Creativity and Technicality: Navigating the fine line between innovative design expression and the technical constraints of fabrication, materials, and budget.

• Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing communication and integration between diverse teams (architecture, interiors, EGD, fabrication) to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Rapidly Evolving Design Landscape: Staying abreast of new technologies, materials, and design trends in experiential graphics and the broader built environment.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced EGD Techniques: Deepen expertise in specialized areas like kinetic graphics, interactive installations, or sustainable materials in design.

• Project Leadership: Develop skills in managing larger, more complex projects, including client presentations and team leadership.

• Industry Conferences: Opportunities to attend and present at industry events (e.g., SEGD events) to gain insights and network.

• Mentorship: Benefit from guidance from senior design leaders within CannonDesign's EGD practice.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents challenges that require continuous learning and adaptation, particularly in managing complex stakeholder relationships and staying innovative in a rapidly evolving design field. Growth opportunities are geared towards deepening technical expertise and expanding project leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex client vision you had to translate into a tangible experiential graphic design. What was your process, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on conceptualization, problem-solving, and results.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with architects and interior designers to ensure seamless integration of experiential graphics into the built environment?" (Highlight communication, coordination, and understanding of architectural processes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How does your design philosophy align with CannonDesign's 'Living-Centered Design' movement?" (Research the philosophy and connect your values/approach.)

• "Describe a time you successfully managed competing priorities or stakeholder needs on a project. How did you ensure client satisfaction?" (Showcase prioritization and client management skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: Structure your presentation with a clear beginning (client brief/challenge), middle (your process, solutions, collaboration), and end (final design, outcome, impact).

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality images, renderings, and mockups. Explain the why behind your design choices.

• Operational Focus: Clearly articulate your role in project management, coordination with fabricators, and problem-solving throughout the design lifecycle.

• Metrics & Impact: If possible, include data or anecdotal evidence of the design's success (e.g., user feedback, ease of wayfinding, brand recognition).

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your most impactful projects efficiently, respecting the interviewer's time.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only creative talent but also operational competence: the ability to manage projects, collaborate effectively, solve problems, and deliver impactful results within the specific context of experiential graphic design in a large firm.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer III position:

• Submit your application exclusively through CannonDesign's official company Careers site at http://www.cannondesign.com/careers/?gh_jid=8552263002.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in experiential graphic design, wayfinding, 3D design, and relevant market sectors (Healthcare, Education, Commercial). Ensure your portfolio clearly demonstrates your design process from concept to production.

• Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords from the job description naturally into your resume, emphasizing your 7+ years of experience, proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite, and any experience with Revit or SketchUp. Quantify your achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving strategies, and collaborative approach. Prepare to present your portfolio confidently, focusing on your role, operational contributions, and project outcomes.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy, their project portfolio, and their approach to client relationships. Be ready to discuss how your values and work align with the firm's mission.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with CannonDesign through their official careers portal before making application decisions. Be wary of any other platforms requesting application information.