Experiential Graphic Designer III

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer III

Company: Cooper Carry

Location: Denver, Colorado, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Experiential Graphic Design / Environmental Graphics

Date Posted: 2026-09-18

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Develops and refines design and technical solutions for experiential graphic design projects, focusing on branding, wayfinding, and environmental graphics.

• Contributes to the overall project success by producing quality design deliverables, including drawings, renderings, and presentations, adhering to firm and client guidelines.

• Works independently on smaller projects while actively collaborating with cross-functional teams (Architects, Landscape Architects, Interior Designers) and accepting direction from Senior Designers and Studio Leaders.

• Mentors junior designers (EGD I & II) and interns, contributing to team standards and fostering a collaborative atmosphere.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a mid-career professional (III level) within a specialized Experiential Graphic Design Studio, indicating a need for demonstrated independent project contribution and a solid foundation in EGD principles, rather than entry-level or senior leadership. The emphasis on collaboration with architectural teams suggests a strong integration of graphic design into the built environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Produce high-quality design deliverables, including scaled drawings, detail drawings, specifications, renderings, and presentations, ensuring adherence to Cooper Carry and client standards.

• Independently develop design and documentation decisions with discretion and good judgment, applying knowledge of municipal signage codes, fabrication construction methods, and architectural documentation.

• Design and develop logos and brands for the built environment, ensuring alignment with project objectives and target audiences.

• Apply understanding of ADA accessibility codes and other relevant regulations to ensure designs meet compliance and safety standards.

• Create and refine skills in drawing, rendering, visual communication, and presentation techniques using internal resources and specified software.

• Manage task-oriented responsibilities, accepting direction and contributing to project success through foundational studio tasks like meeting minutes and project message schedules.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Architects, Landscape Architects, and Interior Designers, to seamlessly integrate graphic elements into the overall design of spaces.

• Engage with clients by actively participating in meetings, taking detailed notes, and assisting with client correspondence under leadership guidance.

• Review submitted shop drawings from fabricators and maintain the submittal log to ensure quality control and adherence to project specifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design execution and technical documentation, with a clear expectation for understanding construction methods, codes, and client interaction. The "task-oriented" nature and mentorship of junior staff indicate a role focused on execution and team support within larger projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree from an accredited design program or equivalent design experience in graphic design, visual communications, environmental graphics, industrial design, interior design, or a related design field.

Experience: 5+ years of professional experience specifically as an Experiential/Environmental Graphic Designer.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator with CADTools, InDesign, Photoshop).

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.

• Strong design and graphic skills in branding, signage, wayfinding, branded environments, and 3D spaces.

• Demonstrated skills with dimensional fabrication and print production methods.

• Ability to make design decisions and guide junior designers (EGD I and II) to meet project objectives.

• Strong communication, coordination, organization, and presentation skills.

• Excellent visual communication of ideas via sketching, drawing, and/or rendering.

• Ability to manage multiple projects or tasks concurrently. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with 3D design software (e.g., SketchUp).

• Familiarity with motion graphics software.

• Experience working with fabricators to produce high-quality, budget-conscious installations.

• Familiarity with CAD Tools beyond basic Illustrator plugins.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements clearly emphasize practical, hands-on design and production skills within the EGD context, with a strong preference for software proficiency beyond the core Adobe Suite. The ability to guide junior designers suggests a need for leadership potential and clear communication of design intent.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of projects demonstrating expertise in branding, wayfinding systems, signage design, and branded environments within architectural contexts.

• Include examples of detailed design development, including scaled drawings, fabrication specifications, and material considerations.

• Present case studies that highlight the design process from concept development to final installation, emphasizing problem-solving and client collaboration.

• Demonstrate proficiency in translating 2D concepts into 3D environmental graphics and integrated architectural elements. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of creating and refining scaled drawings, design documents, and construction documents with attention to detail and adherence to architectural standards.

• Examples of how you have ensured designs meet applicable codes and regulations, including municipal signage codes, fabrication standards, and ADA accessibility.

• Documentation of your experience working with fabricators, including reviewing shop drawings and ensuring quality and budget compliance.

• Case studies illustrating how you have collaborated with architects, landscape architects, and interior designers to integrate graphic elements effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an Experiential Graphic Designer III, a portfolio is critical. It should not only display aesthetic capabilities but also demonstrate a robust understanding of the practicalities of EGD, including fabrication, code compliance, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. Specific examples of detailed drawings and fabrication specifications will be highly valued.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $70,000 - $85,000 annually.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match.

• Professional development opportunities, including training and conference attendance.

• Potential for travel to job sites or client meetings.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, flexibility may be available based on project demands and team coordination, with potential for occasional overtime during peak periods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range of $70k-$85k for Denver, CO, aligns with a mid-level designer role (5+ years of experience) in a specialized field within a reputable architecture and design firm. This range is competitive for the Denver market for this experience level and specialization. The benefits listed are standard for full-time professional roles in the architecture and design industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Planning, and Design. Cooper Carry is a multi-disciplinary firm with a strong presence in various sectors, including commercial, residential, hospitality, and institutional design. This broad scope provides exposure to diverse project types.

Company Size: Large (typically 500+ employees based on general knowledge of firms like Cooper Carry). This size suggests a structured organization with established processes, dedicated departments, and opportunities for cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Founded: Cooper Carry was founded in 1965. This long history indicates stability, extensive experience, and a well-established reputation in the design industry.

Team Structure:

• The Experiential Graphic Design Studio operates within a larger firm, likely collaborating closely with architectural, interior design, and landscape architecture teams.

• This role reports to Team Leaders, Senior Designers, and/or Studio Leaders, indicating a hierarchical structure within the EGD studio.

• Direct supervisory responsibilities are not part of this role, but mentorship of junior designers (EGD I & II) and interns is expected, fostering a learning-oriented team environment. Methodology:

• Design Integration: A core methodology involves seamlessly integrating graphic elements into the built environment, requiring close collaboration with architectural and interior design disciplines.

• Process-Driven Development: Emphasis on producing quality design deliverables through structured processes, including detailed documentation, code compliance checks, and fabrication management.

• Continuous Learning: Encouragement to refine skills, stay updated on industry trends, and incorporate feedback for professional growth.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and large size suggest a professional and structured environment. The emphasis on cross-functional collaboration is key for an EGD role, requiring strong communication and integration skills to work effectively with architects and other design disciplines.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is classified as an Experiential Graphic Designer III, indicating a mid-level position. It signifies a designer who can work independently on assigned tasks and smaller projects, contributes significantly to design development, and begins to mentor junior staff. It sits between an entry-level designer (EGD I/II) and a senior/lead designer.

Reporting Structure: The designer reports to Team Leaders, Senior Designers, and/or Studio Leaders. This structure provides guidance and oversight, allowing for professional development while contributing to team objectives.

Operations Impact: The impact is direct through the creation of visual experiences that define spaces, enhance wayfinding, build brand identity, and contribute to the overall aesthetic and functional success of architectural projects. This role influences client perception and user experience within the built environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas such as complex wayfinding systems, large-scale branding installations, or advanced fabrication techniques.

• Project Leadership: Progression towards leading design development for larger or more complex EGD projects, potentially managing project timelines and client relationships more autonomously.

• Mentorship Development: Enhancing leadership skills by taking on more responsibility in mentoring junior designers and interns, potentially leading to roles with formal team leadership responsibilities.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Gaining deeper insights into architectural, interior design, and landscape architecture processes, enabling more integrated and impactful EGD solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "III" designation clearly places this role in the mid-career bracket, with defined growth paths toward senior-level positions and potential leadership within the EGD studio. The emphasis on mentorship is a key indicator of expected growth in leadership capabilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily an office-based environment within a professional design firm. The setting is likely collaborative, with open-plan areas and dedicated workstations for design teams.

Office Location(s): Denver, Colorado. This location provides access to a vibrant urban environment and potential for diverse project types within the region. The specific office will likely be equipped with design software, rendering capabilities, and meeting spaces.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Design Hub: Expect a dynamic workspace where designers, architects, and other creative professionals interact. This fosters idea sharing and integrated design solutions.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to industry-standard hardware and software for graphic design, 3D modeling, rendering, and project management.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for regular interaction with the Experiential Graphic Design Studio team, as well as cross-functional collaboration with other design disciplines within Cooper Carry.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the understanding that project deadlines may occasionally require flexibility and extended hours. The on-site nature means consistent presence in the Denver office is required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Denver means candidates should be prepared for a traditional office setting, emphasizing in-person collaboration and access to firm resources. The environment is expected to be conducive to creative work and interdisciplinary teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the EGD III requirements.

• Design Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely present a curated selection of their work, focusing on relevant projects in branding, wayfinding, and environmental graphics. Be prepared to discuss your design process, problem-solving approach, and contributions to each project.

• Technical Skills Assessment: Questions may focus on software proficiency (Adobe Suite, 3D tools) and understanding of fabrication, materials, and construction documentation.

• Behavioral & Situational Questions: Expect questions about teamwork, collaboration with architects, mentorship of junior staff, client interaction, and handling project challenges.

• Final Round: May involve meeting with Studio Leaders or Principals to discuss alignment with company culture and long-term career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that showcase your expertise in experiential graphics, branding, and wayfinding.

• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenge, your creative process, problem-solving strategies, and the final outcome.

• Showcase Technical Skills: Include examples of detailed drawings, fabrication specifications, and renderings that demonstrate your technical proficiency.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or client testimonials that speak to the success of your designs (e.g., improved user navigation, brand recognition).

• Tailor to Cooper Carry: Research Cooper Carry's portfolio and client types to ensure your presented work aligns with their aesthetic and project focus.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical EGD project, from initial client brief to final fabrication.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of collaboration with architectural teams and how to integrate EGD seamlessly into building design.

• Practice explaining technical aspects of fabrication and material selection to both design and non-design audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should prepare to walk through their projects in detail, demonstrating not just design talent but also a deep understanding of the practical aspects of experiential graphic design and collaboration within a larger architectural practice.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite: Illustrator (with CADTools), InDesign, Photoshop are essential for graphic creation, layout, and production artwork.

• 3D Design Software: SketchUp is mentioned as a plus, indicating its utility for conceptualizing and visualizing environmental graphics in 3D space. Other common tools like Rhino or Revit may also be relevant in cross-functional work.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Word, Excel, and PowerPoint are standard for documentation, project management, and presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly mentioned, proficiency in using project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, or internal firm tools) for task tracking and schedule monitoring is implied.

• Understanding how to interpret project data related to timelines and budgets is crucial. CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the design role itself, but an understanding of how client correspondence and project documentation are managed within a firm's CRM or project management system would be beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong command of the Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Familiarity with 3D modeling software like SketchUp is a significant advantage, as it directly supports the visualization and development of environmental graphics. The ability to manage project documentation and track progress using various software tools is also key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Collaboration: A strong emphasis on working effectively with architects, interior designers, and other team members to achieve integrated design solutions.

• Quality & Precision: Commitment to producing high-quality design deliverables, detailed documentation, and accurate specifications, ensuring successful fabrication and installation.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding client needs and delivering design solutions that meet project objectives and enhance user experience.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages learning, skill refinement, and staying abreast of industry trends and best practices in experiential graphics.

• Mentorship & Team Support: A value placed on sharing knowledge, guiding junior colleagues, and fostering a supportive team environment.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with other design disciplines to ensure graphic elements are harmoniously integrated into the built environment from the early stages of design.

• Feedback Exchange: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to peers, senior designers, and junior staff to elevate design quality and project outcomes.

• Proactive Communication: Maintaining clear and consistent communication with team members, clients, and fabricators to ensure project alignment and timely execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at Cooper Carry, as suggested by the role description, emphasizes teamwork, professional excellence, and a client-centric approach. For this EGD role, strong interpersonal skills and a collaborative mindset are essential for success, especially when working within a multi-disciplinary firm.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Technical Constraints: Effectively translating innovative design concepts into practical, buildable solutions that meet fabrication limitations, code requirements, and budget constraints.

• Integrating with Diverse Design Disciplines: Seamlessly collaborating with architects, interior designers, and other specialists whose primary focus may differ from graphic design, requiring strong communication and negotiation skills.

• Managing Multiple Projects Simultaneously: Juggling the demands of various projects, each with unique deadlines, client needs, and design challenges, while maintaining high standards for all.

• Staying Current with EGD Trends and Technologies: Continuously adapting to new materials, fabrication techniques, digital integration, and evolving design aesthetics in the experiential graphics field.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Fabrication & Material Workshops: Participating in training sessions or site visits to understand emerging fabrication technologies and material applications.

• Cross-Disciplinary Project Immersion: Gaining deeper knowledge of architectural design processes through active involvement in integrated projects.

• Client Presentation Skills Enhancement: Developing more advanced public speaking and persuasive communication skills through repeated client interactions and presentations.

• Mentorship Programs: Formalizing mentorship relationships to gain insights from senior designers and refine leadership and guidance abilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges described are typical for mid-level designers in integrated firms, emphasizing the need for strong problem-solving, communication, and adaptability. The growth opportunities are geared towards deepening expertise and developing leadership qualities within the EGD field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex wayfinding system you've designed. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure clarity and effectiveness for users?" (Focus on process, problem-solving, and user-centric design.)

• "How do you approach collaborating with architects to integrate experiential graphics into a building's design? Provide an example of a successful integration." (Highlight cross-disciplinary communication and integration strategies.)

• "Walk us through a project where you had to balance a client's creative vision with fabrication costs or technical limitations. What was your approach to finding a solution?" (Demonstrate problem-solving, negotiation, and practicality.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you specifically about Cooper Carry's approach to experiential graphic design and their portfolio?" (Research their projects, values, and recent work.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our studio culture, particularly in mentoring junior designers and fostering collaboration?" (Emphasize teamwork, knowledge sharing, and leadership potential.)

• "What are your thoughts on the evolving trends in experiential graphics, and how do you stay current?" (Showcase industry awareness and a commitment to continuous learning.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem, your role, your process, the solution, and the outcome/impact.

• Showcase Technical Detail: Be prepared to zoom into drawings, specifications, and fabrication details to prove your technical understanding.

• Emphasize Collaboration: Discuss how you worked with other disciplines and fabricators, highlighting your communication and teamwork skills.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Practice your presentation to ensure it flows well and stays within the allotted time, keeping your audience engaged.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only design talent but also a practical understanding of fabrication, code compliance, and effective collaboration within an architectural firm. Your portfolio presentation is your primary tool for showcasing these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer III position:

• Submit your application through the provided Ultipro link, ensuring all sections of the application are completed accurately.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that demonstrate your experience in branding, wayfinding, and environmental graphics within architectural contexts, aligning with Cooper Carry's portfolio and project types.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 5+ years of specialized experiential/environmental graphic design experience, lists proficiency in required software (Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office), and highlights achievements in design development, fabrication, and cross-functional collaboration.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, technical expertise, and collaborative experiences. Prepare answers for common interview questions related to EGD challenges, team dynamics, and client interaction.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Cooper Carry's website, recent projects, and design philosophy. Understand their approach to integrated design and identify specific projects that resonate with your skills and interests.

⚠️ 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.