Experiential Graphic Designer II

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Experiential Graphic Designer II

Company: CannonDesign

Location: Chicago, IL, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Design / Creative Operations

Date Posted: November 05, 2025

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in translating client visions into tangible, impactful spatial experiences by developing compelling visual narratives for environments.

• The Experiential Graphic Designer II will be instrumental in the end-to-end design process, from initial concept ideation through to final artwork production for fabrication.

• A key focus will be on creating detailed design solutions across various media, including 2D and 3D graphics, signage, and exhibit elements, ensuring alignment with client missions and purposes.

• This position requires strong collaboration with interior designers, architects, and project teams to elevate spaces into memorable and functional environments that foster connection and inspiration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Experiential Graphic Designer II," the core responsibilities and required experience level align with a mid-level operational design role. The emphasis on process, client needs translation, and production artwork points to a need for structured execution within a creative operations framework, rather than pure conceptual design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Execute all stages of the experiential graphic design process, from initial concept ideation and client requirement interpretation to final artwork production and handover for fabrication.

• Develop and present dynamic visual concepts that effectively communicate client missions, visions, and strategic objectives through spatial design elements.

• Support project teams by creating detailed design documentation, including comprehensive graphic programs, wayfinding and signage systems, donor recognition programs, and interpretive exhibit designs, all under the guidance of design leadership.

• Produce precise, camera-ready artwork and specifications essential for the fabrication of signage, environmental graphics, and exhibit components.

• Collaborate effectively with internal design leaders, project teams, interior designers, and architects to ensure seamless integration of experiential graphics within the overall built environment.

• Prepare high-quality visualizations and mockups of proposed signage and environmental graphics, integrating them into digital models and architectural plans for client review and approval.

• Actively participate in team calls, design critiques, and project meetings, contributing to a collaborative and iterative design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative execution and process management. While creativity is key, the "support project execution," "develop documentation," and "produce camera-ready artwork" points to a structured approach to design delivery, typical of operations-focused roles that ensure project timelines and quality standards are met.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• A minimum of 4 years of professional experience in a relevant design capacity, with demonstrable experience across various market sectors.

Required Skills:

• Strong Design Portfolio: A comprehensive and compelling portfolio showcasing a diverse range of projects, particularly in environmental graphics, signage, wayfinding, and exhibition design, is essential.

• Typography Expertise: Advanced skills in typography, with the ability to apply it effectively in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional contexts.

• 3D Design Acumen: Demonstrated skill and a keen interest in three-dimensional design principles, spatial thinking, and environmental applications.

• Core Design Software Proficiency: Essential proficiency on a Mac platform using Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign for graphic creation and layout.

• Analytical & Independent Thinking: Ability to approach design challenges analytically, think independently, and develop innovative solutions.

• Detail Orientation: Exceptional attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design, documentation, and production artwork.

• Communication & Collaboration: Robust communication skills and a proven track record of effectively collaborating within fast-moving, complex project teams.

• Process Management: Working knowledge and practical experience in all phases of the design process, from concept to production.

Preferred Skills:

• Revit & SketchUp Proficiency: Familiarity or working knowledge of Revit and SketchUp is a significant advantage for integrating designs within architectural models.

• Wayfinding Systems Design: Specialized experience in developing and implementing complex wayfinding and signage systems.

• Exhibition Design: Experience in designing engaging and informative interpretive exhibits.

• Client Presentation: Ability to present design concepts and solutions effectively to clients and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "working knowledge and experience in all phases of design process" and the explicit mention of producing "camera-ready artwork for fabrication" highlight the operational aspect of this role, requiring a candidate who understands project lifecycles and deliverable requirements beyond just creative ideation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Comprehensive Project Case Studies: Showcase at least 3-4 detailed case studies demonstrating your involvement in the full design lifecycle, from initial client brief and concept development to final execution and production.

• Process Documentation Examples: Include examples of how you document design processes, such as workflow diagrams, project timelines, or system documentation for signage programs.

• 3D Visualization Samples: Present mockups or digital models that illustrate how you integrate 2D graphics into 3D environments, demonstrating spatial understanding.

• Fabrication-Ready Deliverables: Highlight examples of final artwork or specifications prepared for fabrication, emphasizing attention to detail and technical accuracy.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate understanding of design workflows, from initial concept to final output, with examples of how you contribute to efficient process execution.

• System Implementation: Showcase experience in developing and documenting comprehensive systems, such as wayfinding or branding guidelines, for consistent application across multiple touchpoints.

• Performance Analysis: While not explicitly stated, a strong portfolio should indirectly show how designs aim to meet objectives (e.g., improved visitor experience, clearer navigation), implying an understanding of performance impact.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, the portfolio isn't just a gallery of work; it needs to be a testament to process adherence, technical capability, and the ability to translate creative concepts into manufacturable assets. Candidates should prepare to discuss the "how" and "why" behind their design decisions and production methods.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $56,795 - $70,948 annually This range is specific to the Chicago, IL office and represents the anticipated base compensation at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on individual qualifications, experience, and internal equity.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

• Financial Wellness: Flexible Spending Account options and Voluntary Insurances.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and flexible work arrangements.

• Schedule Flexibility: Flex-time schedules and hybrid work options available.

• Retirement Planning: 401k plan with company contributions.

• Employee Engagement: Employee perk programs designed to enhance the employee experience.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through flex-time schedules and hybrid work options.

📝 Enhancement Note: The stated salary range is typical for a mid-level designer in a major metropolitan area like Chicago. The benefits package is comprehensive, reflecting a commitment to employee well-being and work-life integration, which is valuable for maintaining productivity and engagement in design operations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Design Services (with a strong focus on Healthcare, Education, and Workplace sectors).

Company Size: Large (CannonDesign is a global firm with hundreds of employees).

Founded: 1945

Team Structure:

• Experiential Graphic Design (EGD) Team: This specialized team operates collaboratively, likely with a mix of designers, project managers, and production specialists. They integrate closely with architectural and interior design disciplines.

• Reporting Structure: The "II" in the title suggests a mid-level position, likely reporting to a Senior Designer, Design Director, or EGD Lead.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role inherently requires deep collaboration with interior designers, architects, project managers, and potentially marketing or client relations teams.

Methodology:

• Living-Centered Design: This is CannonDesign's core philosophy, guiding all projects to focus on human experience, empathy, and social impact. For EGD, this means creating environments that are intuitive, inspiring, and supportive.

• Data-Informed Creativity: While creative, the role requires an analytical approach to translate client needs and user behavior into effective design solutions.

• Process-Oriented Execution: The structure of the responsibilities points to a methodical approach to design delivery, ensuring quality and consistency across projects.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy is a key differentiator. For an operations-minded candidate, understanding how this philosophy translates into tangible design processes and project requirements will be crucial for demonstrating alignment and effectiveness.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

Reporting Structure:

Operations Impact:

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like wayfinding systems, exhibit design, or branded environments.

• Leadership: Progress to Senior Designer roles, leading projects, mentoring junior designers, and taking on more strategic client responsibilities.

• Process Improvement: Contribute to refining EGD workflows, documentation standards, and production methodologies within the firm.

• Skill Expansion: Develop proficiency in advanced software (e.g., AR/VR applications for design visualization) or gain experience in project management aspects of design delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "II" designation clearly marks this as a step beyond entry-level. Candidates should highlight their experience in managing design tasks independently and contributing to project success, showcasing their readiness for increased responsibility and their potential for growth within the firm's operational structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid Work Arrangement

Office Location(s):

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: The office environment is designed to facilitate collaboration, with shared workspaces, meeting rooms, and potentially dedicated areas for design critiques and brainstorming sessions.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (Adobe Creative Suite, Revit, SketchUp) and digital modeling tools is expected. The firm likely invests in robust IT infrastructure to support design workflows.

• Team Interaction: Hybrid work implies intentional scheduling of in-office days for team meetings, project reviews, and spontaneous collaboration, fostering a strong team dynamic.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time working hours (approx. 40 hours/week) are expected, with flexibility offered through "flex-time schedules." This allows for adaptation to project deadlines and personal needs while maintaining operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment requires strong self-management and communication skills. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they maintain productivity, collaboration, and connection within a hybrid model, emphasizing their ability to manage their time effectively for both independent work and team engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a review of resume and portfolio by HR or a hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and alignment.

• Portfolio Presentation & Interview: Candidates will likely be asked to present their portfolio, detailing their process, design rationale, and contributions to specific projects. This will be followed by behavioral and technical questions.

• Team/Cross-functional Interviews: Interviews with potential colleagues (designers, architects) and possibly project managers to assess collaboration style and cultural fit.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss career aspirations, strategic thinking, and overall fit with CannonDesign's culture and mission.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your strongest projects that best represent your skills in experiential graphic design, 3D design, and process execution.

• Focus on Process: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges, your thought process, the methodologies used, and the final outcomes. Emphasize how you translated client needs into impactful solutions.

• Highlight Production Skills: Showcase examples of artwork prepared for fabrication, demonstrating your attention to detail, technical accuracy, and understanding of production constraints.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you can, include metrics or qualitative feedback that demonstrates the success of your designs (e.g., improved navigation efficiency, positive client feedback on brand expression).

• Tailor to CannonDesign: Emphasize projects that align with CannonDesign's focus areas (healthcare, workplace, sports) and demonstrate an understanding of "Living-Centered Design."

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Thinking Exercise: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge where you might need to develop a concept, outline a process, or solve a spatial/graphic problem under timed conditions.

• Software Proficiency Test: Questions may probe your familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite, Revit, or SketchUp, and how you leverage them in your workflow.

• Behavioral Questions: Prepare to discuss your collaboration style, how you handle feedback, manage project challenges, and approach problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "process," "documentation," and "artwork production" means candidates should be ready to dissect their portfolio projects from an operational perspective, explaining not just the creative outcome but the structured journey to achieve it.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Adobe Creative Suite:

  • Illustrator: For vector graphics, logos, icon design, and detailed technical drawings.
  • Photoshop: For image manipulation, rendering, and creating visual mockups.
  • InDesign: For layout, creating graphic programs, signage schedules, and presentation documents.

• 3D Modeling Software:

  • SketchUp: (Preferred/Plus) For quick 3D modeling, integrating graphics into architectural contexts, and visualization.
  • Revit: (Preferred/Plus) Experience with BIM software is advantageous for seamless integration with architectural project files.

• Visualization Tools: Various tools for creating realistic mockups and renderings of graphics within spaces.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but familiarity with project management software used within the firm (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud, Asana, Monday.com) might be beneficial for tracking project progress.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite is non-negotiable. Experience with 3D modeling tools like SketchUp and BIM software like Revit is a significant plus, demonstrating a candidate's ability to work within integrated design environments and produce technically sound deliverables for complex projects.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Living-Centered Design: A core value that prioritizes human experience, empathy, and well-being in all design solutions. Operations here means ensuring this philosophy is embedded in every deliverable.

• Client Adoration: A commitment to exceeding client expectations through consistent, high-quality service and impactful design outcomes. Operational excellence is key to achieving this.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): CannonDesign actively promotes EDI, fostering a workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. This is reflected in their team composition and community engagement.

• Communication & Transparency: An open environment where ideas and challenges are shared freely, promoting proactive problem-solving and continuous improvement.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Strong emphasis on working seamlessly with architects, interior designers, and other project stakeholders to deliver holistic design solutions.

• Iterative Design Process: A culture that embraces feedback and critique as essential elements for refining designs and ensuring the best possible outcome.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, technical insights, and project learnings across teams to foster collective growth and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should demonstrate how their operational approach to design supports these values. For example, how their attention to detail ensures client satisfaction, or how their collaborative approach fosters EDI.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creativity with Technical Constraints: Effectively translating innovative concepts into practical, producible designs that meet budget, schedule, and fabrication limitations.

• Integrating Complex Systems: Developing comprehensive wayfinding and signage systems that are intuitive, aesthetically cohesive, and adaptable across diverse environments.

• Cross-Disciplinary Communication: Navigating communication nuances between design disciplines (architecture, interiors, graphics) to ensure project alignment and a unified vision.

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

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from senior designers and directors within the EGD team.

• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of project types and scales, offering continuous learning and skill development.

• Industry Engagement: Potential for attending industry conferences (e.g., SEGD) and participating in professional development programs.

• Internal Workshops: Access to internal training sessions focused on design methodologies, software updates, and firm-wide initiatives like Living-Centered Design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should frame challenges as opportunities for growth and demonstrate proactive strategies for overcoming them, showcasing their problem-solving skills and commitment to continuous improvement within an operations context.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a wayfinding system from initial client brief to final production artwork."

  • Preparation: Outline your steps: needs assessment, site analysis, concept development, user journey mapping, system design (sign types, hierarchy), content development, technical specifications, and production management. Emphasize documentation and client communication at each stage.

• "How do you ensure your experiential graphics align with the overarching architectural and interior design intent of a space?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your collaboration methods, how you interpret architectural drawings, how you use mood boards or material palettes, and your approach to presenting graphics within digital models. Highlight your understanding of spatial context.

• "Walk us through a project where you had to translate a client's abstract mission or values into tangible environmental graphics."

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about CannonDesign's 'Living-Centered Design' philosophy, and how would you apply it in your daily work?"

  • Preparation: Research the philosophy thoroughly. Prepare examples of how you've previously designed with user experience, empathy, and well-being in mind.

• "How do you approach collaboration within a hybrid work environment, especially when working with diverse teams like architects and interior designers?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative: the challenge, your solution, and the outcome.

• Process Focus: Dedicate significant time to explaining your design process, tools used, and decision-making rationale. Show sketches, wireframes, and production details.

• Impact & Results: Clearly articulate the impact of your work, aligning it with client objectives and the firm’s values.

• Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss technical aspects of production, materials, and fabrication, demonstrating your readiness for execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily emphasize process, collaboration, and the ability to articulate how design decisions support client objectives and the firm's core philosophy. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate operational rigor in their creative work.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Experiential Graphic Designer II position:

• Submit your application through the CannonDesign Careers site via the provided URL.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature projects demonstrating your experience in 3D design, wayfinding, exhibition design, and the full design-to-production lifecycle. Ensure it highlights your technical proficiency and process-driven approach.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to include keywords from the job description, such as "Experiential Graphic Design," "Environmental Graphics," "Wayfinding," "3D Design," "Adobe Illustrator," "Adobe Photoshop," "Adobe InDesign," and "design process." Quantify achievements where possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on explaining your process, role, and the impact of your work. Prepare specific examples for behavioral questions related to collaboration, problem-solving, and handling feedback.

• Company Research: Deeply understand CannonDesign's "Living-Centered Design" philosophy, their market sectors (healthcare, workplace, education), and their commitment to EDI. Prepare to discuss how your design approach aligns with these values.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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