POSITION SUMMARY
This is temporary, full-time, salaried position, with the potential to transition into a permanent role based on organizational needs and performance. This position updates existing Adobe design files, produces (either in house or coordinating with vendors), installs and monitors the Zoo’s signs and some digital graphics and maintains frames/hardware inventory under direction of the senior marketing manager. Leads quarterly and ongoing quality control for all signs in the Zoo.
Serves as the key point of contact for in-Zoo signage requests, including exhibit, event, wayfinding, promotional, interpretive and educational materials, and produces signage, collateral, digital graphics and other branded content for all departments. Production includes but is not limited to:
Large-format printing
Cutting in various formats and materials
Laminating
Vinyl production and application
Installation (sometimes with external vendors or internal maintenance team) Single- and double-sided printing
Working with external vendors to deliver design files in accurate formats, and coordinate delivery and installation
Should be fluent in design terminology and how frames’ production logistics dictate design. Promotes professional working relationships with internal and external customers. Adheres to and supports all organizational policies, procedures and standards. Promotes teamwork!
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
● Must submit to and pass a pre-employment drug/alcohol screening and criminal background check.
● Must be able to provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States.
● Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field required.
● 1-3 years of professional graphic design experience required; nonprofit or inhouse experience preferred.
● Proficient with Adobe Creative Suite (especially InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator), Google Workspace, Microsoft Office (Word, Excel), internet and email; experienced with both Mac and PC platforms required.
● Familiarity with web-based creative and organizational platforms (e.g. Constant Contact, Canva, Asana) a plus.
● Strong knowledge of print, production and signage installation.
● Skilled in building and maintaining effective working relationships with coworkers, vendors and partners.
● Excellent written and verbal communication skills; able to interact clearly and professionally with internal and external stakeholders, and provide strong writing and editing support as needed.
● Demonstrates creative problem-solving skills and a solutions-oriented mindset.
● Maintains high attention to detail while managing multiple design projects simultaneously.
● Strong organizational skills for coordinating projects, managing design files, inventory, and materials.
● Collect and analyze data on all in-Zoo signage (e.g. wayfinding, maps, animal ID/interpretation, pricing, sponsor placements, event promotions, and other guest-facing or staff-only communications), and report insights to improve future designs.
● Performs effectively in fast-paced environments, navigating tight deadlines, complex logistics and shifting priorities with focus and follow-through.
● Quick to learn and adapt to new software and digital tools.
● Ability to research, draw conclusions, and summarize data for discussion and review.
● Take ownership and pride in responsibilities.
● Possess the ability to organize and prioritize while working with strict deadlines.
RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES
Organizational Responsibilities:
● Ensure discretion with confidential information.
● Maintains courteous, helpful and professional behavior on the job. Will support the success of the entire team by promoting a collaborative and accommodating work environment.
● Adheres to all CMZoo Policies and Procedures, CMZoo Safety Policies and Procedures and OSHA safety guidelines.
● Consistently contributes to problem-solving and cooperates with identified resolutions.
● Must demonstrate regular attendance and punctuality.
● Brings issues and process improvement ideas to the attention of the Supervisor.
● Maintains verbal and written skills required for the position.
● Attends meetings and participates in committees as required.
● Completes trainings as required.
● Adheres to Company Dress Code Policy. Always “Zoo Crisp!”
● Demonstrates appropriate level of time management in support of co-workers and the entire team.
● Represent the Zoo in a professional manner.
Departmental Expectations:
● Produces and maintains, under the direction of the senior marketing manager, all in-Zoo signage (e.g. wayfinding, maps, animal ID/interpretation, and other guest facing or staff-only communications) and coordinates regulatory signage with appropriate departments as needed.
● Occasionally designs and/or updates Zoo-produced materials representing the brand and supporting programs, events and Zoo-wide initiatives (e.g. advertising, digital content, print collateral, apparel, vehicle wraps, Zoo collateral, etc.).
● Creates brand extensions (print and digital) based on 3rd party advertising agency campaigns and provides input during campaign development to support brand consistency, sponsor visibility and file usability.
● Provides design support for affiliated partners and conservation programs as required, ensuring alignment with Zoo branding and partner guidelines.
● Coordinates with printers and installers to ensure quality, brand alignment, timely delivery and budget adherence.
● Manages design project requests, timelines, budgets and production resources (e.g. large-format printers, laminators, tools), sourcing cost-effective materials and maximizing value.
● Provides graphic installation support outside regular business hours as required.
● Assists with special events, including setup, teardown and staffing all special events.
● Other duties as assigned.
RESPONSIBILITY FOR CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION
This position handles highly sensitive information. Total confidentiality and discretion are mandatory regarding organizational information and other sensitive information.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORKING CONDITIONS
The physical demands and working conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
● Physical Requirements – Requires full range of body motion, manual and finger dexterity, and hand-eye coordination; requires the ability to use department equipment, to communicate effectively; requires standing, walking on a steep terrain (Zoo), sitting (possibly for long periods of time) and performing repetitive tasks (including working on the computer) for up to the entire work day; requires the ability to lift/carry up to 50 pounds using appropriate body mechanics.
● Visual, Hearing and Communication Requirements – Requires corrected vision and hearing to within normal range, with or without reasonable accommodation. Must be able to communicate effectively in verbal and written form with all levels of personnel within and outside of the organization.
● Environmental Conditions – Working conditions may be noisy with fluctuating indoor and/or outdoor temperatures. May be exposed to a risk of bodily injury through contact with moving instrumentation, substances and other conditions common to an office environment. Subject to exposure to animals which may have the potential for physical aggression. May be exposed to a risk of bodily injury through contact with moving instrumentation, toxic substances, bodily fluids, animal attack, communicable diseases, allergens, pests, signage production tools, outdoor weather conditions and other conditions common in a Zoo and workshop environment. Subject to unpleasant odors. May be required to visit construction sites, assist with installations, or navigate steep terrain in inclement weather, requiring the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, fall protection harnesses, or weather gear like ice cleats.
● Pressure Factor – Requires working under stressful conditions. Moderate to high pressure to meet scheduled, recurring, and last-minute deadlines for high-visibility projects. May occasionally be called upon to support high-demand projects outside of normal job scope while continuing to fulfill regular responsibilities.
Pay: $52,510.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
