The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures furthers the understanding, celebration, and preservation of cinema through inclusive and accessible exhibitions, screenings, programs, initiatives, and collections. Welcoming visitors from Los Angeles and around the world, the Museum works in active partnership with motion picture artists and specialists, scholars, staff, and diverse communities to contextualize and challenge dominant narratives around cinema, inspiring discourse, connection, joy, and discovery.
Reporting to the Director of Exhibition Design, the Manager is responsible for designing and coordinating design for all Academy Museum exhibitions and projects. Working closely with Exhibition staff in the Production Department (Graphic Design, AV, Lighting, Fabrication, Art Installation, Media production), you will ensure all exhibitions and projects are completed to the highest standards, on time, and on budget.
You Will:
- Provide design strategies and concepts for all exhibitions – bringing coherence to the plan and a sophisticated approach to environmental design and visual communication.
- Working closely with Curatorial staff and external filmmakers, conceive and develop original designs for exhibitions, including elements such as temporary walls, scenic elements, screens, media, casework, wall color, floor treatments, public seating, lighting, and object layouts.
- Work closely with the Manager of Graphic Design to ensure a cohesive approach to 2d and 3d elements.
- Ensure successful integration of design from concept to implementation, working closely with staff from curatorial, exhibition production, conservation, exhibitions planning, registration, publication, and digital content.
- Schedule delivery of projects on time, within budget, and ensure quality control of exhibition and installation components to produce overall consistency.
- Supervise the generation of CAD drawings and other computer renderings to communicate design concepts.
- Prepare and oversee production of construction drawings based on final approved designs.
- Manage the making of models, maquettes, prototypes, and mockups for exhibitions and projects.
- Review design proposals with Visitor Services, Security, and Facilities to ensure clear communication and efficiency between exhibitions, visitor, and building.
- Ensure all construction is built to meet design standards; troubleshoot any issues that arise with fabricators and on the floor.
- Ensure processes are in place to maximize the effectiveness of design resources. This includes overseeing the preparation of design-related schedules, resource planning, and financial estimates and reports.
- Study trends in museum design, including technical advances, new methodologies, and products, and advise peers and senior management of their suitability.
You Have:
- B.F.A. or B.A. in a design discipline or related field.
- 5+ years of related experience.
- Mastery of exhibition design, artistic display and visual presentation methods used in a museum, combined with a thorough knowledge of museum exhibition concepts, standards, applications, procedures, and terminology.
- Strong conceptual and creative abilities as well as strong technical background.
- Proven exhibition design and installation experience, especially in film, video, and multimedia exhibitions.
- Experience establishing timelines, balancing priorities, and managing resources to accomplish multiple simultaneous exhibition projects.
- Deep knowledge of design processes and practices, policies, and procedures in a museum or art gallery environment.
- Knowledge of current and emerging trends in the design profession, preferably within the arts and heritage sector.
- Superior communication skills and the ability to effectively convey ideas and persuade outcomes through formal presentation.
- Knowledge of museum conservation needs and practices.
- Knowledge of industrial design and architectural practices, including life/safety and ADA requirements and city permits.
- Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
- Technical acumen: proficient in design software tools such as Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), Vectorworks and/or CAD, and Rhino, prototyping and physical model making. Advanced skills in business software including Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- A commitment to diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion.
Other Requirements:
- Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required, including any booster vaccinations as applicable.
Our Benefits:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision.
- PTO and Sick Time.
- 401(k).
