Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer

Company: RWS Global

Location: Cincinnati, OH / Orlando, FL

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Creative & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-05-05

Experience Level: 3-5 Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the creative development and execution of immersive destination design projects, driving the vision from concept to reality.

• Lead and mentor cross-functional creative teams, including writers, artists, and scenic designers, ensuring cohesive and high-quality output.

• Translate complex artistic ideas and creative intent into tangible deliverables through story development, visual models, and concept art.

• Serve as a key liaison, presenting project concepts, content, and progress to both internal leadership and external clients and partners.

• Oversee the procurement of necessary talent and resources, ensuring projects are completed efficiently and within scope, impacting guest experiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the "Creative & Design Operations" category, emphasizing the blend of artistic vision with operational execution required for large-scale themed entertainment projects. The emphasis on "destination design" and "guest experiences" indicates a focus on creating comprehensive, immersive environments rather than isolated design elements.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Define and lead the conceptualization, development, and progression of creative aspects for assigned destination design projects, ensuring achievable and impactful guest experiences.

• Oversee and direct the execution of all project elements, from initial sketches to final implementation, to uphold the intended guest experience and maintain overall quality standards.

• Manage and guide teams of creative project personnel, including writers, artists, and scenic designers, fostering a collaborative environment focused on project success.

• Create or facilitate the articulation of creative intent through compelling story development, including treatments, storyboards, visual models, sketches, and concept art.

• Develop and present project materials effectively to internal and external audiences, clearly communicating project concepts, content, and current status.

• Collaborate with Creative Leadership to identify and secure the necessary talent and resources, including external consultants, to ensure successful project completion.

• Act as a primary project contact for internal stakeholders and external partners, managing communication and expectations throughout the project lifecycle.

• Undertake required travel to project sites, client meetings, and studio locations to support project development and on-site execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on project management and leadership within a creative context. The term "achievable deliverables" suggests a need for practical execution alongside creative ideation. The requirement for travel indicates a hands-on role that extends beyond the studio.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as Design, Architecture, Fine Arts, Theatre Design, or a related creative discipline is typically expected for a Lead Designer role.

Experience: 3-5 years of direct experience in designing experience-based attractions, themed lands, location-based entertainment, or theme parks.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in designing experience-based attractions, lands, location-based entertainment, or theme parks.

• Proficiency in industry-standard design software: Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchup, Rhino, and AutoCAD.

• Core artistic abilities in at least one of the following disciplines: design, architecture, story development, illustration, theatrical/scenic design.

• Strong presentation skills with the ability to communicate concepts effectively through various media (e.g., verbal, visual, written).

• Thorough understanding of the creative process, including concept development, design iteration, and final deliverable production.

• Ability to articulate complex artistic ideas through clear and concise written and visual materials.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience managing creative teams or projects.

• Familiarity with 3D modeling and rendering software beyond the required list.

• Understanding of the operational aspects of themed entertainment, including guest flow, safety, and technical integration.

• Experience working with external vendors and consultants.

• A strong portfolio showcasing a range of design projects and creative problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience level requirement of 3-5 years suggests this is a mid-level to senior individual contributor role, requiring a solid foundation in design principles and practical application within the themed entertainment sector. The software requirements are specific and crucial for evaluating candidates.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A comprehensive portfolio showcasing a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant design work, with a focus on experience-based attractions, themed lands, or location-based entertainment.

• Demonstrations of proficiency in key design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchup, Rhino, AutoCAD) through project examples.

• Visual evidence of strong artistic disciplines, such as architectural renderings, detailed storyboards, concept art, or scenic designs.

• Case studies or project examples that illustrate the ability to define and articulate creative concepts and guest experiences.

Process Documentation:

• Projects within the portfolio should ideally demonstrate an understanding of the full creative process, from initial ideation and story development to final visual execution and potential implementation considerations.

• Evidence of how design concepts were translated into actionable deliverables, such as technical sketches, mood boards, or detailed concept art packages.

• Examples of collaboration with other disciplines or teams, showcasing an ability to integrate design with broader project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Lead Designer role, the portfolio is critical. It must not only showcase aesthetic talent but also demonstrate a grasp of the operational aspects of bringing creative visions to life in a themed entertainment context. The portfolio needs to prove the candidate can manage the "process" of design development and execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Lead Designer with 3-5 years of experience in the themed entertainment sector in Cincinnati or Orlando, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between $85,000 - $115,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in these regions and the specialized nature of the role.

Benefits:

• Competitive Salary

• Progressive Paid Time Off (PTO)

• Commuter benefits

• Comprehensive Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.

• Paid Parental Leave

• 401k retirement savings plan

• Employee Enrichment Program

• Summer Fridays (potential for extended weekends or reduced hours)

Working Hours: This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. However, given the "Mobile" status (3 days in-office, 2 days remote) and the nature of creative projects, flexibility may be expected, with potential for extended hours during critical project phases or travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for similar roles in the specified locations and industry. The "Mobile" work arrangement suggests a hybrid model requiring a balance of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Themed Entertainment, Live Entertainment Production, Experiential Marketing, Live Sports Production. RWS Global operates at the forefront of creating large-scale, immersive experiences for a global clientele, including major brands, resorts, cruise lines, and sporting events.

Company Size: Over 8,000 individuals worldwide, indicating a large, complex organization with extensive resources and a global operational footprint.

Founded: While the founding date isn't specified, RWS Global has established itself significantly in the entertainment industry, with a history of producing millions of live moments daily and expanding into new sectors like live sports.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer reports to the Creative Director and Creative Leadership team.

• They will oversee teams of creative project personnel, including writers, artists, and scenic designers.

• Collaboration is expected with art directors, executive creative design and development teams, and potentially external consultant resources.

Methodology:

• Emphasis on conceiving, developing, and presenting creative content for destination design projects.

• Focus on translating creative visions into achievable, high-quality guest experiences.

• Utilization of story development, visual models, sketches, and concept art as core creative tools.

• A collaborative approach to brainstorming, visual development, and talent/resource procurement.

• Data-informed decision-making may be implied through the need to deliver "achievable" and impactful experiences, though not explicitly stated as a primary methodology.

Company Website: www.rwsglobal.com

📝 Enhancement Note: RWS Global's scale and diverse client list suggest a dynamic, fast-paced environment where innovation and client satisfaction are paramount. The company's "Diverse is Who We Are" statement highlights a commitment to inclusivity, which is a key aspect of its company culture.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This Lead Designer role represents a significant step in a creative career path. It involves not just individual design contribution but also leadership, team management, and client-facing responsibilities within the operations of large-scale entertainment productions. It bridges individual creative talent with operational project execution.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer reports to the Creative Director and Creative Leadership, indicating a hierarchical structure within the creative department. They, in turn, lead and direct other creative personnel on projects.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's work directly impacts the core product of RWS Global – the immersive guest experiences. Their ability to translate creative vision into tangible, high-quality designs directly influences client satisfaction, brand perception, and the overall success of entertainment productions and events. This role is crucial for ensuring the "achievable deliverables" that form the foundation of RWS Global's operational output.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress into senior design roles, Art Director positions, or even Creative Director roles within RWS Global, managing larger teams and more complex projects.

• Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas of themed entertainment design, such as immersive storytelling, interactive experiences, or large-scale architectural concepts.

• Project Diversity: Exposure to a wide range of projects across different industries (theme parks, cruise lines, sports events, theatrical productions), broadening skill sets and portfolio breadth.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers, developing leadership and training capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within the creative operations of a major entertainment company. The emphasis on leadership and project management within a creative context is a key differentiator for career progression.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid model ("Mobile" status: 3 days in office, 2 days remote). This suggests a need for collaborative in-office work, likely for team meetings, brainstorming sessions, and hands-on design reviews, balanced with the flexibility of remote work for focused individual tasks.

Office Location(s): Cincinnati, OH or Orlando, FL. These locations are significant hubs for the entertainment and theme park industries, offering access to talent and industry connections.

Workspace Context:

• Collaboration: The hybrid model necessitates strong communication and collaboration tools to ensure seamless teamwork between in-office and remote team members. In-office days are likely dedicated to high-interaction activities.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchup, Rhino, AutoCAD) and potentially advanced visualization or VR/AR tools will be essential for design work.

• Team Interaction: Opportunity to engage closely with the Creative Director, Art Directors, fellow designers, writers, and scenic artists, fostering a creative and supportive studio environment.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with a standard 40-hour work week. However, the dynamic nature of live entertainment production and client-driven deadlines may require occasional flexibility and extended hours, particularly during critical project phases or when traveling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid "Mobile" work arrangement is a key feature, indicating RWS Global's adaptation to modern work preferences while maintaining the necessity of in-person collaboration for creative roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and portfolio to assess experience, skills, and alignment with role requirements.

• Creative Assessment: Potential for a design challenge or case study presentation focusing on conceptualizing and developing a themed entertainment experience. This would evaluate problem-solving, creativity, and presentation skills.

• Team/Leadership Interviews: Interviews with the Creative Director, Creative Leadership, and potentially other key team members to assess technical expertise, collaboration style, and leadership potential.

• Client/Stakeholder Simulation: Possibly a simulated presentation scenario to gauge the candidate's ability to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences.

• Final Interview: Discussion with senior leadership to confirm fit and discuss compensation/offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 3-5 of your strongest, most relevant projects that demonstrate expertise in experience-based attractions, themed lands, or location-based entertainment.

• Highlight Core Skills: Ensure your portfolio clearly features examples of work using Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchup, Rhino, and AutoCAD. Detail your role and contributions for each project.

• Showcase Artistic Discipline: Include examples that clearly demonstrate your core artistic abilities (design, architecture, story development, illustration, scenic design).

• Tell a Story: For each project, articulate the creative brief, your conceptual approach, the development process, and the final outcome. Explain how you addressed the "guest experience intent."

• Demonstrate Presentation Ability: Be prepared to walk through your portfolio, explaining your design choices and strategic thinking as if presenting to a client or senior leadership.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include any metrics or feedback related to the success of your designed experiences (e.g., guest satisfaction, operational efficiency).

Challenge Preparation:

• Familiarize yourself with RWS Global's existing portfolio and recent projects to understand their style and scale.

• Practice articulating your creative process for developing an immersive experience from a brief.

• Prepare to discuss how you would balance creative vision with practical, achievable deliverables and operational constraints.

• Be ready to showcase your ability to lead and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on evaluating both the candidate's creative output (portfolio) and their ability to articulate and defend their design decisions, particularly in the context of large-scale operational projects.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Graphic Design & Illustration: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) - essential for concept art, storyboards, mood boards, and visual development.

• 3D Modeling & Design: Sketchup, Rhino - crucial for conceptualizing and developing spatial designs, architectural elements, and immersive environments.

• CAD & Technical Drawing: AutoCAD - necessary for creating technical drawings, site plans, and detailed design specifications that can be handed off for production.

• Presentation Software: PowerPoint, Keynote, or similar - for creating and delivering compelling project presentations to internal teams and external clients.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the core responsibilities of a Lead Designer, but understanding how projects are managed within the company's systems (e.g., project management software) would be beneficial for coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the listed design and CAD software is non-negotiable. The ability to use these tools effectively to visualize and communicate complex ideas is central to the role's success.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Creativity & Innovation: A core value driving the development of groundbreaking live entertainment and immersive experiences.

• Excellence & Quality: A commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful designs that meet client expectations and captivate audiences.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams and with external partners to achieve shared project goals.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and fulfilling client needs, translating their visions into successful realities.

• Passion for Entertainment: A shared enthusiasm for creating memorable experiences that connect with people.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expected to work closely with writers, artists, scenic designers, art directors, and potentially production managers to ensure design concepts are integrated into the broader project.

• Open Communication: Encourages clear and consistent communication to share ideas, provide feedback, and resolve challenges effectively.

• Iterative Design: The creative process likely involves feedback loops and iterative refinement of designs based on input from leadership, clients, and technical teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's explicit "DIVERSE IS WHO WE ARE" statement underscores a commitment to inclusivity, which is likely a foundational element of their team culture and collaboration style.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Operational Constraints: The primary challenge will be to deliver innovative and captivating designs while adhering to project budgets, timelines, and technical feasibility.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Effectively aligning the creative vision with the varied needs and expectations of internal leadership, clients, and external partners.

• Leading and Motivating Creative Teams: Harnessing the talent of a multidisciplinary team and guiding them toward a unified creative output.

• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with new design tools, software, and immersive technologies to maintain a competitive edge.

• Travel Demands: Managing personal and project needs while fulfilling travel requirements for site visits and client meetings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Software Training: Opportunities to master new features or explore advanced functionalities in existing design tools.

• Industry Conferences & Workshops: Attending events focused on themed entertainment design, immersive experiences, and creative technology.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from experienced Creative Directors and senior designers within RWS Global.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gaining insights into production, operations, and client management through project involvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for lead roles in creative operations, requiring strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills alongside technical expertise. The growth opportunities are geared towards expanding both creative and leadership capabilities.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a creative concept for a new themed attraction, from initial brief to final presentation." (Focus on story development, visual exploration, and stakeholder communication.)

• "How do you ensure your design concepts are not only creative but also achievable within budget and technical constraints?" (Highlight experience with practical execution and collaboration with production/engineering teams.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What excites you about RWS Global's work in the themed entertainment industry?" (Show genuine interest and research into their projects and clients.)

• "How do you contribute to a diverse and inclusive team environment?" (Align with the company's stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: For each project, provide a brief overview of the client, the challenge, your role, the solution, and the outcome.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your digital portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Use high-quality images and clear annotations.

• Tool Proficiency Demonstration: Be ready to discuss specific software features you utilized and how they aided your design process.

• Focus on Impact: Emphasize how your designs contributed to the overall guest experience, client satisfaction, or operational success.

• Engage with Questions: Be prepared for in-depth questions about your design choices, process, and problem-solving approaches.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of the creative process within an operational context, highlighting leadership potential, and showcasing excellent communication skills relevant to client-facing roles.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the RWS Global careers portal.

• Tailor your Resume: Emphasize your 3-5 years of experience in themed entertainment design, highlighting specific projects, software proficiencies (Photoshop, Rhino, AutoCAD, etc.), and any leadership or project management experience. Use keywords from the job description.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select your most impactful projects that directly align with the requirements for experience-based attractions, lands, or location-based entertainment. Ensure it clearly showcases your artistic disciplines and software skills. Prepare a concise presentation narrative for your portfolio.

• Prepare for a Design Challenge: Anticipate an exercise that will test your conceptualization, problem-solving, and presentation abilities within the context of themed entertainment design.

• Research RWS Global: Familiarize yourself with their client roster, recent projects, and company culture to articulate your interest and demonstrate cultural fit during interviews.

⚠️ 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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