Graphic Designer & Project Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Graphic Designer & Project Coordinator

Company: Petersen Automotive Museum

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Job Type: Part-Time, Hourly

Category: Creative Operations / Project Coordination

Date Posted: August 19, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a hybrid position blending creative design execution with essential project coordination responsibilities within a museum's Design department.

• It requires a proactive individual skilled in managing design project lifecycles, from request intake to final delivery, ensuring seamless workflow and adherence to brand standards.

• The position involves significant interaction with internal teams, external vendors, and stakeholders, demanding strong communication and organizational abilities.

• Key to success will be the ability to balance artistic contributions with meticulous project tracking and logistical management in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is classified under Creative Operations and Project Coordination due to the dual nature of responsibilities. While the title emphasizes "Graphic Designer," the detailed responsibilities highlight a strong project management component, particularly in tracking, logistics, and vendor coordination, which are core to operations functions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Design Project Intake & Tracking: Log and manage incoming design requests via the department's Trello board, ensuring all briefs are captured, organized, and updated with progress status.

• Resource & Vendor Management: Identify and procure necessary resources for design briefs, coordinating effectively with print vendors, suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely project execution.

• Creative Design Execution: Provide hands-on graphic design support for various briefs, creating visually compelling assets that consistently adhere to established brand guidelines and aesthetic standards.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration & Communication: Maintain clear and consistent communication channels with colleagues, external contractors, and various stakeholders throughout the entire project lifecycle to ensure alignment and mitigate potential issues.

• Brand & Industry Awareness: Stay updated on emerging design technologies, tools, and production methods, actively seeking opportunities to enhance the museum's creative output and pursue design recognition through awards and publications.

• Process Improvement Identification: Proactively identify inefficiencies within the design workflow and propose actionable solutions to enhance productivity and output quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities heavily emphasize process management (tracking, coordination, resource management) alongside creative duties. This suggests a need for an individual who can not only design but also optimize and manage the operational aspects of the design process, a hallmark of strong operations professionals.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or a related field, OR

• A professional certificate in Graphic Design.

• Equivalent professional experience supported by a robust portfolio will also be considered. Experience:

• 3+ years of professional experience in graphic design.

• Demonstrated experience in project coordination, tracking, or management, particularly within creative environments. Required Skills:

• Graphic Design Proficiency: Expert-level skills in Adobe Creative Suite, including Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

• Typography & Visual Design: Strong command of typography, layout, color theory, and overall design principles with a keen eye for visual aesthetics and brand consistency.

• Project Tracking & Organization: Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, track progress using tools like Trello, and maintain detailed organizational systems.

• Vendor & Resource Coordination: Experience in liaising with external vendors (printers, suppliers) and internal teams to procure resources and ensure project deliverables meet specifications.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and project status clearly to diverse audiences.

Preferred Skills:

• Video Editing Skills: Basic proficiency in video editing software is a plus for multimedia projects.

• Production Knowledge: Technical understanding of print and digital production processes, including file preparation for various outputs.

• Problem-Solving: Resourceful approach to identifying and resolving design and project-related challenges.

• Stakeholder Management: Experience communicating directly with stakeholders beyond email to manage expectations and gather feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of design software proficiency, organizational tools (Trello), and vendor coordination points to a role that values both creative output and operational efficiency. The "experience backed by a strong portfolio" is a crucial indicator for roles that require demonstrable process management and creative problem-solving.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Showcase: Include case studies that detail your design process from brief to final execution, highlighting problem identification, conceptualization, and iterative refinement.

• Project Management Examples: Demonstrate your ability to manage projects by including examples of project tracking, timeline management, and successful coordination with multiple stakeholders or vendors.

• Brand Adherence: Showcase projects where you successfully maintained and applied strict brand guidelines, illustrating your commitment to brand integrity.

• Problem/Solution Orientation: Feature projects that highlight your ability to solve design challenges or overcome logistical hurdles, showcasing resourcefulness and effective problem-solving strategies.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of using project management tools (e.g., Trello, Asana, Monday.com) to track design requests, monitor progress, and manage deadlines.

• Examples of workflow optimization or process improvements you've implemented in previous roles, particularly within creative or project management contexts.

• Documentation of communication strategies used with vendors and internal teams to ensure project clarity and successful outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For operations-focused roles, a portfolio is not just about finished products but also about the process behind them. This section emphasizes demonstrating how candidates manage workflows, utilize tools, and collaborate effectively, which are critical operational competencies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $27 - $30 per hour.

Benefits:

• Part-Time Benefits: As a part-time employee, specific benefits may vary. Typically, part-time roles may include access to sick leave, commuter benefits, and potential eligibility for a 401(k) plan, depending on institutional policy.

• Museum Access: Opportunity to enjoy the exhibits and cultural offerings of the Petersen Automotive Museum.

• Creative Environment: Work within a dynamic and inspiring cultural institution.

• Professional Development: Potential for learning and growth within a specialized design and operations function.

Working Hours: This is a part-time position, likely requiring approximately 20-25 hours per week, with flexibility for specific project needs. The role is on-site, requiring consistent presence during designated working hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specified hourly rate is for a part-time role in Los Angeles, CA. Based on industry averages for Graphic Designers with project coordination responsibilities in a high-cost-of-living area like Los Angeles, this range is competitive for a part-time position. It aligns with entry to mid-level operational support roles within creative departments.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Museum / Non-profit / Automotive Heritage. The Petersen Automotive Museum is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the art and history of the automobile. This context means a commitment to excellence, public engagement, and preserving cultural heritage, influencing the pace and style of work.

Company Size: The Petersen Automotive Museum is a significant cultural institution with a substantial number of employees, indicating a structured organizational environment with established departments and processes. This size allows for specialized roles like this one.

Founded: Founded in 1994, the museum has a rich history of showcasing automotive culture, suggesting a stable organization with evolving needs in marketing, design, and operations.

Team Structure:

• Design Department: This role is situated within the Design department, reporting directly to the Design Manager.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: The role necessitates close collaboration with various internal departments (e.g., Marketing, Curatorial, Education, Events) and external partners (vendors, contractors).

• Operations Integration: While primarily creative, the project coordination aspect integrates this role into the broader operational framework of the museum's marketing and communications efforts.

Methodology:

• Brand-Centric Design: All creative output must align with the Petersen Automotive Museum's established brand identity and guidelines.

• Process-Driven Project Management: Emphasis on structured workflows, clear communication, and efficient project tracking using tools like Trello to ensure timely and high-quality deliverables.

• Collaborative Problem-Solving: A culture that encourages teamwork and open communication to address challenges and achieve collective goals.

Company Website: https://petersen.org/

📝 Enhancement Note: The museum environment implies a need for professionalism, attention to detail, and an understanding of public-facing communications. The "operations integration" note highlights how even creative roles within such institutions have operational components.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level position for professionals looking to combine creative skills with operational support. It's ideal for individuals seeking to develop project management capabilities within a creative field.

Reporting Structure: The Graphic Designer & Project Coordinator reports directly to the Design Manager, providing a clear line of supervision and mentorship.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the museum's brand presentation and marketing effectiveness by ensuring visually appealing and consistently branded materials are produced efficiently. Effective project coordination ensures that marketing campaigns and exhibition materials are delivered on time, supporting the museum's overall mission and engagement goals.

Growth Opportunities:

• Skill Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design software, production techniques, and project management methodologies.

• Creative Leadership: Potential to take on more complex design projects and lead smaller initiatives within the design team.

• Operational Acumen: Develop advanced project management, vendor negotiation, and workflow optimization skills applicable to various operations roles.

• Industry Exposure: Gain valuable experience within a high-profile cultural institution, enhancing career prospects in both design and operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth analysis emphasizes the dual path available: deepening creative expertise or developing operational management skills. This is a significant draw for candidates who might be looking to pivot or expand their career trajectory within operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is on-site at the Petersen Automotive Museum, a world-class facility. This implies working within a professional, potentially busy, and inspiring environment surrounded by automotive history and exhibits.

Office Location(s): Los Angeles, California. Specifics regarding the design department's workspace within the museum are not provided but can be assumed to be a professional office setting.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The workspace likely facilitates collaboration with other designers and project stakeholders, fostering a team-oriented atmosphere.

• Creative Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software and potentially project management tools is expected.

• Inspiration: Proximity to museum exhibits provides a unique and inspiring backdrop for creative work.

Work Schedule: This is a part-time, on-site role. The exact schedule will be determined based on museum needs and project demands, likely involving a set number of hours per week with some flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is crucial. The context of a museum suggests a professional, potentially fast-paced environment where creative output is directly tied to institutional goals and public perception.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess design skills, project coordination experience, and cultural fit.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a selection of their work, highlighting design process, project management examples, and problem-solving approaches. Be prepared to discuss your role, contributions, and outcomes.

• Skills Assessment: May include a practical design exercise or a case study related to project coordination and vendor management.

• Manager Interview: Discussion with the Design Manager to delve deeper into experience, technical skills, and alignment with team dynamics.

• Cultural Fit Interview: Potentially with other team members or department heads to assess collaboration style and alignment with museum values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Operations: Clearly articulate your project management contributions for each case study. Use Trello screenshots or similar visuals to demonstrate tracking and organization.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs or project coordination efforts (e.g., on-time delivery rate, vendor satisfaction, project efficiency improvements).

• Brand Adherence Focus: Highlight projects where you meticulously followed brand guidelines. Explain your understanding of brand integrity in a museum context.

• Problem/Solution Narrative: Structure your portfolio pieces to tell a story: identify the challenge, outline your approach (design and/or coordination), and present the successful outcome.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Task: Be ready for a small design task that tests your proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud and your ability to work within brand constraints.

• Project Coordination Scenario: Prepare for questions or a scenario involving managing a design request from intake to delivery, including identifying potential roadblocks and solutions.

• Vendor Communication: Practice how you would communicate with a hypothetical vendor regarding a design project's specifications, timeline, or potential issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio review for both design and project management aspects is key. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their operational capabilities, not just their artistic talent.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Tools:

• Adobe Creative Cloud: Expert proficiency required in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop.

• Video Editing Software: Working knowledge or basic proficiency in video editing tools (e.g., Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effects) is a plus.

Project Management & Collaboration Tools:

• Trello: Essential for project tracking, task management, and workflow organization as specified in the job description.

• Email & Communication Platforms: Proficiency in standard email clients and potentially internal communication tools (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) for cross-functional collaboration.

Other Potential Tools (Beneficial):

• Digital Asset Management (DAM) Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing and retrieving design assets.

• Project Management Software: Experience with other PM tools like Asana, Monday.com, or Jira could be advantageous.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of Trello makes it a critical tool to highlight in one's application and portfolio. Proficiency in the Adobe Creative Suite is a baseline requirement for the design component.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: Valuing original ideas and visually engaging content that enhances the museum's appeal.

• Precision & Detail: Maintaining high standards in both design execution and project logistics, ensuring accuracy and quality.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where team members work together to achieve common goals and share knowledge.

• Efficiency & Effectiveness: Striving for streamlined processes and timely delivery of projects to support the museum's operational needs.

• Brand Stewardship: A deep commitment to upholding and enhancing the Petersen Automotive Museum's brand identity.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The team likely works closely with marketing, curatorial, and events departments, requiring strong interpersonal skills and the ability to adapt communication styles.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to constructive criticism and feedback on both design work and project management approaches.

• Proactive Communication: A preference for clear, consistent, and proactive communication to keep all parties informed and aligned.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values highlight a blend of creative excellence and operational discipline, essential for a role that bridges design and project coordination in a cultural institution.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative and Operational Demands: Effectively managing time between hands-on design work and the administrative/logistical tasks of project coordination.

• Managing Multiple Stakeholders: Coordinating design needs and feedback from various internal departments and external vendors, each with potentially different priorities.

• Evolving Project Scope: Adapting to changing project requirements or deadlines in a dynamic museum environment.

• Resource Constraints: Working within the budget and resource limitations typical of non-profit organizations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to learn new design software features or specialized design disciplines.

• Project Management Certification: Potential to pursue certifications or training in project management methodologies.

• Museum Operations Insight: Gaining a comprehensive understanding of how creative operations contribute to the success of a large cultural institution.

• Vendor Relationship Management: Developing skills in negotiating with and managing external suppliers effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: These challenges and growth opportunities highlight the dynamic nature of the role and the potential for significant professional development, particularly in bridging creative and operational functions.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design & Operations Synergy: "Describe a project where you had to balance creative execution with strict project deadlines and resource constraints. How did you manage both aspects?" (Focus on process, tools like Trello, and communication.)

• Vendor Management: "How would you approach selecting and managing a print vendor for a critical museum exhibit piece? What criteria would you prioritize, and how would you ensure quality and timely delivery?" (Highlight negotiation, communication, and quality control.)

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a design request comes in with unclear objectives or requirements. What steps would you take to clarify the brief and ensure the final design meets the need?" (Demonstrate your analytical and communication process.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Museum Context: "What interests you about working in a museum environment, specifically the Petersen Automotive Museum?" (Show research into the museum's mission and exhibits.)

• Brand Adherence: "How do you ensure consistency in brand application across various design projects, especially when working with external vendors?" (Emphasize understanding of brand guidelines and quality checks.)

• Collaboration: "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a difficult stakeholder or resolve a conflict within a project team. What was your approach?" (Focus on communication, empathy, and resolution skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell the Story: For each portfolio piece, narrate the project's objective, your specific role (design and coordination), the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the final outcome.

• Highlight Operations: Explicitly point out where you used Trello or other organizational methods, how you managed vendor relationships, and how you ensured project timelines were met.

• Quantify Success: If possible, provide metrics on project success, such as on-time delivery rates, positive feedback received, or cost savings achieved through efficient vendor management.

• Brand Consistency: Show examples that clearly demonstrate your understanding and application of brand guidelines.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating proficiency in both design and the operational aspects of project management, using specific examples and relevant tools.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Graphic Designer & Project Coordinator position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Petersen Automotive Museum's careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature projects that showcase both your graphic design skills and your project coordination capabilities. Include examples of your work with Trello or similar tracking tools and highlight instances where you effectively managed vendor relationships.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3+ years of relevant experience, highlighting specific accomplishments in graphic design, project tracking, vendor coordination, and proficiency in Adobe Creative Cloud. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your process, problem-solving approach, and the operational aspects of your projects. Be ready to discuss your experience with Trello and other relevant tools.

• Research the Museum: Familiarize yourself with the Petersen Automotive Museum's mission, current exhibits, and brand aesthetic to demonstrate genuine interest and understanding of their context.

⚠️ 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.