Job Description

Bring history to life through design. The City of Oshkosh is seeking a creative, production-savvy design professional to support the Oshkosh Public Museum by leading the design and production of exhibition graphics, interpretive materials, publications, and museum marketing assets. This role sits at the intersection of visual storytelling and public service—helping residents and visitors connect with the people, places, and ideas that shape our community.

As a key member of the Museum’s exhibition team, you’ll work closely with museum staff to translate complex cultural, historical, and artistic concepts into clear, engaging, audience-ready visuals. You’ll also provide consultation and hands-on support for exhibit layout, fabrication, and installation. There may also be occasional design project support for other City departments and divisions.

This position works under general supervision and is regularly assigned non-routine projects requiring sound professional judgment, independence, and strong project management.

Key Responsibilities

• Exhibition Graphics & Wayfinding: Design and produce exhibition/interpretive graphics (titles, panels, labels, maps, timelines, donor recognition, photo enlargements) and support building/wayfinding signage; provide guidance on layout, readability, materials, fabrication, installation, accessibility/ADA considerations; proof for accuracy and brand alignment.
• Marketing & Promotions: Create print and digital marketing materials for exhibitions, programs, events, membership, fundraising, and outreach; maintain templates and consistent Museum/City branding across channels (including social media and web).
• Publications & Prepress: Design and format publications and collateral (catalogs, guides, brochures, newsletters, reports); edit images/graphics; prepare print- and production-ready files (preflight, proofs, packaging, corrections).
• Production & Vendor Coordination: Request quotes, coordinate print orders, communicate specs and deadlines, and ensure quality for offset, digital, and large-format output.
• Fabrication & Installation: Print/finish exhibit materials (mount, trim, laminate) and assist with installation/removal (measuring, alignment, leveling) while following safe tool-use and safety procedures.
• Tools, Files & Inventory: Maintain software/technology proficiency; manage supplies and recommend workflow improvements; organize digital files, templates, and archives to support reprints, updates, and records retention.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, Visual Communications, or a closely related field
• Three (3) or more years of professional design experience
• Prior experience in a museum, gallery, or similar cultural organization
• A proven portfolio demonstrating:
  • broad graphic design collateral
  • large-format and display graphics
  • publication/catalog design with strong editorial layout skills

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong understanding of production materials and fabrication methods across mediums
• Demonstrated ability to translate concepts into effective, brand-consistent visual communications
• Ability to produce consistent work across print, digital, and environmental graphics
• Advanced proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and familiarity with Acrobat preflight/print prep
• Working knowledge of standard office tools and technology (Apple/PC; Outlook, Word, web tools)
• Excellent organization and time management; ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills; able to work independently and collaboratively with internal/external stakeholders
• High attention to detail and craftsmanship, including printing, mounting, cutting, and installing graphics
• Ability to use exhibit/design drafting tools; familiarity with wayfinding systems and accessibility considerations
• Ability to interpret architectural drawings and floor plans
• Basic knowledge of SketchUp, AutoCAD, or Revit (coordination purposes)

Preferred/Desirable

• Experience coordinating with vendors and overseeing installation
• Experience preparing files for offset printing and large-scale display graphics
• Experience with architectural/cultural institution design environments
• Motion/digital exhibition experience (e.g., After Effects or similar)

Why This Role Matters

This is a hands-on, highly visible role where your design work directly shapes how the public experiences exhibitions, navigates the Museum, and engages with programming. If you love turning complex content into accessible, compelling design—and enjoy both concept development and production—you’ll thrive here.

Visit the employment section of our website (www.oshkoshwi.gov) for a full job description, benefits offered, and to apply.

The City of Oshkosh is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace.  Applicants from all backgrounds are welcomed.

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