Environmental Graphic Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Environmental Graphic Designer Company: Roto Location: Dublin, Ohio, United States Job Type: OTHER Category: Environmental Graphic Design / Exhibit Design Date Posted: September 15, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the creative design and development of immersive and engaging experiences for museums, attractions, zoos, aquariums, and play-based environments.
• Drive the full scope of exhibit design, from initial concept ideation through detailed design and execution planning.
• Contribute strong visual and interpretive ideas, guiding the aesthetic and functional direction of projects.
• Mentor mid- and early-career designers, fostering a collaborative and high-performance design team environment.
• Uphold design excellence and creative ownership across all studio workflows and project deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Environmental Graphic Designer at Roto is positioned as a leadership role within the design team, requiring not only strong design skills but also the ability to guide projects and mentor junior staff. This suggests a need for candidates with proven experience in project ownership and team collaboration within the experiential design field.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the lead exhibit designer for assigned projects, overseeing the entire design lifecycle from conceptualization to detailed design documentation.
• Take creative ownership of spatial, experiential, and visual direction for exhibit environments, ensuring cohesive and impactful visitor journeys.
• Develop compelling design deliverables, including sketches, floor plans, 3D models, and visualizations to effectively communicate design intent to internal teams and clients.
• Prepare and deliver persuasive design presentations for internal reviews and client meetings, articulating design rationale and incorporating feedback.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including exhibit developers, graphic designers, producers, and technical specialists, to achieve project goals.
• Partner with clients to present work, facilitate design discussions, and integrate feedback to ensure client satisfaction and project alignment.
• Participate actively in design charrettes, internal design reviews, and cross-disciplinary coordination meetings to foster innovation and problem-solving.
• Communicate design ideas clearly and concisely through a combination of visual aids, written documentation, and verbal presentations.
• Manage personal design workload efficiently while also supporting the time management and prioritization efforts of junior team members.
• Deliver high-quality, on-brand design solutions that align with project objectives, client requirements, and budgetary constraints.
• Balance the demands of multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring meticulous attention to deadlines and design detail.
• Support project planning processes by contributing to schedules, resource allocation, and scoping for design-related tasks.
• Actively contribute to upholding and advancing Roto's established standards for design excellence and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of individual design contribution and leadership, emphasizing the need for strong project management and client-facing skills, typical of a senior-level design role. The mention of supporting junior team members indicates a mentorship component.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent relevant experience in Architecture, Industrial Design, Environmental Design, or a closely related design discipline.

Experience:

• 4-8+ years of progressive experience specifically within exhibit design, architectural design, or environmental graphic design.
• Proven track record of managing design projects from concept through completion, demonstrating a strong command of the design process.
• Experience in a client-facing role, including presenting design concepts, leading discussions, and incorporating stakeholder feedback effectively.
• Demonstrated experience in mentoring junior design staff and coordinating design efforts within cross-disciplinary teams.

Required Skills:

• Exhibit Design Expertise: Deep understanding of narrative development, visitor flow, spatial planning, and creating engaging physical experiences.
• Environmental Graphic Design Principles: Proficiency in applying graphic design principles to built environments, including signage, wayfinding, and thematic graphics.
• 2D & 3D Design Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in industry-standard software such as SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), AutoCAD, and/or Revit.
• Visual Communication: Exceptional ability to translate concepts into compelling visual representations through sketches, renderings, and models.
• Verbal & Written Communication: Excellent skills in articulating design ideas, presenting to clients and teams, and documenting design decisions.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize tasks, meet deadlines, and contribute to project planning.
• Creative Ownership: Demonstrated ability to take lead on creative direction and drive design vision for projects.
• Materials & Fabrication Knowledge: Understanding of common materials, construction methods, and exhibit fabrication techniques relevant to project execution.

Preferred Skills:

• Storytelling in Design: Proven ability to weave narrative and interpretive elements into design solutions.
• Wayfinding Systems: Experience designing and implementing effective wayfinding strategies.
• Accessibility Standards: Knowledge of universal design principles and accessibility requirements for public spaces.
• Client Relationship Management: Experience in building and maintaining strong client relationships as a design lead.
• Team Mentorship: Experience in guiding and developing the skills of junior design professionals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills emphasize a strong foundation in design software and principles, coupled with essential soft skills for leadership and client interaction. The "4-8+ years" suggests a mid-to-senior level role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a range of environmental graphic design and exhibit design projects, demonstrating a strong command of space, form, and visitor flow.
• Clear examples of creative ideation, conceptual development, and the final execution of design solutions.
• Demonstrations of narrative development and storytelling integrated into the design process.
• Visualizations that clearly communicate design intent, spatial relationships, and user experience.
• Evidence of on-brand design solutions that meet project goals and constraints.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase examples of your design process, illustrating how you move from initial research and concept generation to detailed design and collaboration.
• Include case studies that highlight problem-solving approaches and how you navigated design challenges.
• Demonstrate your ability to articulate the rationale behind design decisions and how they support project objectives.
• Provide examples of how you incorporate feedback from clients and cross-functional teams into your design iterations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for this role, requiring a demonstration of not just aesthetic skill but also process, problem-solving, and client-facing capabilities. It needs to reflect experience in environmental and exhibit design specifically.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $80,000 per year Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.
• Opportunities for professional development, training, and continuing education.
• Exposure to innovative projects in the museum, attraction, and zoo/aquarium sectors.
• Collaborative and creative work environment.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work week, likely 40 hours, with potential for project-driven flexibility.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided, falling within a typical mid-level to early-senior designer compensation bracket for the Ohio region. Benefits are standard but can be elaborated upon by the company during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Experiential Design / Museum & Attraction Design Company Size: Roto's size is not explicitly stated, but the structure of the role (leading projects, mentoring) suggests a medium to large-sized, established firm with a dedicated design department. Founded: Roto was founded in 1977, indicating a long-standing presence and deep expertise in the experiential design industry.

Team Structure:

• The Environmental Graphic Designer likely works within a broader Design or Creative department, collaborating closely with Exhibit Developers, Graphic Designers, Producers, and Technical Staff.
• The role involves providing design leadership and direction, implying a reporting structure where junior designers might report to this position or work closely under their guidance.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a key aspect, requiring seamless integration with project management, fabrication, and client relations teams.

Methodology:

• Roto's approach likely emphasizes a holistic design process, integrating storytelling, user experience, and technical feasibility from concept to completion.
• Data-driven insights may be used in understanding audience engagement and optimizing exhibit effectiveness, though the primary focus is creative and experiential design.
• Workflow planning and optimization are crucial for managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects within timelines and budgets.
• Automation might be leveraged in design workflows or interactive elements within exhibits, but the core of this role is creative design execution.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Roto's long history and specialization in immersive experiences suggest a company culture that values creativity, innovation, and a deep understanding of narrative and spatial design. The emphasis on leading projects and mentoring points to a culture that supports professional growth and leadership.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-to-Senior Level Designer. This position requires significant experience and the ability to lead projects and mentor others, positioning it beyond an entry-level or junior designer role. Reporting Structure: Likely reports to a Design Director, Creative Director, or Lead Designer, and in turn, will provide direction and mentorship to junior designers on projects. Operations Impact: The Environmental Graphic Designer directly impacts the quality and success of Roto's client projects by shaping the visitor experience, ensuring brand consistency, and delivering compelling visual narratives within physical spaces. Their designs are instrumental in achieving client objectives for engagement, education, and entertainment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Leadership: Progression to Senior Designer, Lead Designer, or Design Director roles, with increased project responsibility and client-facing duties.
• Specialization: Opportunity to specialize in specific types of attractions (e.g., science museums, cultural heritage sites, theme parks) or specific design aspects (e.g., interactive design, wayfinding systems).
• Project Management Skills: Development of stronger project management capabilities, potentially leading to roles with more direct project oversight.
• Mentorship & Team Development: Opportunities to refine leadership and mentoring skills, contributing to the growth of the design team.
• Industry Recognition: Potential to contribute to award-winning projects and gain recognition within the experiential design community.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within the specialized field of experiential design, with opportunities to deepen expertise, take on leadership roles, and contribute to high-profile projects.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Roto's primary office is located in Dublin, Ohio. The work environment is likely a professional studio setting that fosters creativity and collaboration. Office Location(s): 7001 Discovery Blvd., Dublin, OH 43017. This location is in a business park or similar professional area.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely include design studios equipped with necessary hardware and software, meeting rooms for presentations and collaboration, and potentially areas for model-making or prototyping.
• Expect a collaborative atmosphere where designers share ideas, receive feedback, and work together on project components.
• Access to modern design tools and technology is expected to support the creative and technical demands of the role.
• Opportunities for interaction with a diverse range of creative professionals, project managers, and technical experts.

Work Schedule: The role is based on-site in Dublin, Ohio. The standard work schedule is likely Monday to Friday, approximately 40 hours per week. While the company may offer some flexibility, the nature of project deadlines and client interactions may require occasional extended hours or weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates should be prepared for a traditional office-based work environment in Dublin, Ohio, conducive to collaborative design work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess basic qualifications and design experience.
• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: A more in-depth interview, likely including a presentation of your portfolio. This stage will assess your design process, creative thinking, problem-solving skills, and ability to articulate your work. Expect behavioral questions related to collaboration, client management, and leadership.
• Skills Assessment (Potential): You might be asked to complete a design challenge or a specific task to evaluate your proficiency in relevant software or your approach to a design problem.
• Team/Management Interview: Interviews with potential colleagues or managers to evaluate cultural fit, team collaboration dynamics, and leadership potential.
• Final Interview: A concluding interview, possibly with senior leadership, to discuss overall fit and expectations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate your expertise in environmental and exhibit design. Prioritize projects that align with Roto's portfolio.
• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly outline the client's brief, your role, the design process, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the final outcome/impact.
• Highlight Your Process: Detail your ideation, research, concept development, and iteration stages. Show sketches, mood boards, 3D models, and client presentation materials.
• Emphasize Collaboration: If possible, describe how you worked with other disciplines or team members.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics or client feedback to demonstrate the success of your designs.
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually polished, and easy to navigate, whether digital or physical.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to common design challenges, such as working with tight constraints, managing difficult client feedback, or balancing creative vision with budget limitations.
• Familiarize yourself with Roto's past projects to understand their aesthetic and the types of experiences they create.
• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, as if presenting to a client or team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be rigorous, with a strong emphasis on portfolio evaluation and the ability to communicate complex design ideas and processes. Candidates should be prepared to present their work and discuss their contributions in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling & Visualization: SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino (potentially) for creating spatial designs and accurate models.
• 2D Design & Graphics: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for concept development, graphic elements, layout, and final asset creation.
• Presentation Software: PowerPoint, Keynote, or similar for creating compelling client and internal presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary focus for this creative role, understanding how to interpret user data or feedback to inform design decisions might be beneficial. Tools would typically be proprietary client systems or general analytics platforms if applicable to interactive elements.

CRM & Automation:

• Less relevant for this design role, but familiarity with project management software (e.g., Asana, Monday.com, Jira) could be advantageous for tracking project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard design software, particularly 3D modeling and the Adobe Creative Suite, is essential for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A strong emphasis on generating original ideas and pushing creative boundaries in experiential design.
• Design Excellence: Commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, attention to detail, and delivering impactful design solutions.
• Collaboration: Valuing teamwork and the ability to work effectively across different disciplines and with clients.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building strong relationships, and delivering successful projects that achieve client goals.
• Passion for Storytelling: A shared enthusiasm for creating meaningful narratives and immersive experiences that engage audiences.
• Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of work ethic, communication, and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Roto likely fosters a collaborative environment where designers work closely with developers, producers, and technical specialists.
• Open communication and constructive feedback are probably encouraged to ensure cohesive project outcomes.
• The team likely engages in iterative design processes, involving multiple stakeholders in reviews and critiques.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be one that deeply values creative output, collaborative problem-solving, and a client-centric approach, common in successful experiential design firms.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Constraints: Effectively translating imaginative concepts into feasible designs that meet client budgets, timelines, and technical requirements.
• Managing Diverse Client Expectations: Navigating different client needs, feedback styles, and approval processes across various projects.
• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with evolving design software, fabrication techniques, and interactive technologies in the experiential design field.
• Mentoring Junior Staff: Developing and refining leadership skills to effectively guide and support the growth of less experienced designers.
• Project Prioritization: Juggling multiple high-profile projects simultaneously, ensuring each receives adequate attention and meets deadlines.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to learn or deepen expertise in new design tools or specialized software relevant to experiential design.
• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Participation in events focused on museum design, exhibit fabrication, or interactive technologies.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Gaining insights into the processes and challenges of exhibit development, production, and technical integration.
• Leadership Development: Formal or informal opportunities to hone project leadership, client management, and team mentoring skills.
• Exposure to Diverse Projects: Working on a wide range of projects for different types of institutions, broadening design experience and understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle complex design challenges and grow significantly within the specialized field of experiential design, particularly in leadership and advanced creative execution.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing an exhibit concept from a client brief." (Focus on research, ideation, narrative integration.)
• "How do you balance creative vision with practical constraints like budget and timeline?" (Highlight problem-solving, compromise, and iterative design.)
• "Walk us through your most challenging exhibit design project and how you overcame obstacles." (Showcase resilience, collaboration, and design thinking.)
• "How do you approach client presentations and incorporate feedback?" (Emphasize communication, client management, and adaptability.)
• "Describe a time you mentored a junior designer. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate leadership and team development skills.)
• "What are your favorite examples of environmental graphics or exhibits, and why?" (Showcase passion and critical thinking about the field.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Roto, and why are you a good fit for our company culture?" (Research Roto's projects, values, and mission.)
• "How do you see yourself contributing to our design team and fostering a collaborative environment?" (Align your skills with team dynamics.)
• "How do you stay current with trends in experiential and exhibit design?" (Mention industry publications, conferences, and ongoing learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with a brief overview of Roto and the role, then present your selected projects. For each project:
  • Context: Client, project goals, your specific role.
  • Process: Ideation, concept development, key design decisions, challenges, solutions.
  • Deliverables: Visuals (sketches, renderings, photos of executed work).
  • Impact: How the design met objectives.
• Key Talking Points: Emphasize your leadership, creative ownership, problem-solving abilities, and collaboration skills.
• Engagement: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your design choices and processes. Be enthusiastic and articulate.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their design process in detail, demonstrate leadership potential, and clearly articulate how their work aligns with Roto's reputation for innovative experiential design.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Environmental Graphic Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paycom platform.
• Portfolio Customization: Ensure your portfolio is tailored to highlight experience relevant to museums, attractions, zoos, and aquariums. Focus on projects showcasing spatial design, narrative, and visitor engagement.
• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to clearly articulate your 4-8+ years of experience in exhibit/environmental design, emphasizing leadership, client interaction, and software proficiency. Use keywords from the job description.
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio and answering common interview questions related to design process, collaboration, and problem-solving. Be ready to discuss your leadership and mentoring experience.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Roto's website, past projects, and any news or press releases to understand their design philosophy, client base, and company culture. Prepare specific questions to ask the interviewer.

⚠️ 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.