Director of Experience Design

Space Center Houston is a space exploration learning destination dedicated to revealing how science and humanity power space exploration through meaningful, moving experiences about people and the courage, innovation, and teamwork they use to expand the boundaries of what's possible. We inspire guests of all ages to connect with the significance of space exploration as incredible feats of human spaceflight continue to bring joy and wonder to the world. Owned and operated by the nonprofit Manned Space Flight Education Foundation, we are the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center and a Smithsonian affiliate.

Space Center Houston is currently seeking a full-time Director of Experience Design responsible for overseeing the visual and spatial design of the Space Center Houston’s exhibitions, public spaces, and overall aesthetic. This role involves collaborating with curators, educators, and other museum crew to create engaging and educational experiences for visitors. The Director of Experience Design ensures that all design elements align with the center’s mission and enhance the visitor experience. Position responsibilities and qualifications are shown below:

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the design and layout of museum exhibitions, ensuring they are engaging, visually appealing, accessible, and educational.
• Oversee the design of public spaces within the center, including lobbies, galleries, and outdoor areas.
• Work closely with curators, educators, and other museum staff to develop design concepts that support the center’s educational goals.
• Manage creative design projects from conception to completion, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating with contractors and vendors.
• Stay current with design trends and technologies to continually improve the center’s design practices.
• Ensure that all design elements contribute to a positive and engaging visitor experience.
• Maintain consistency in the center’s visual identity across all design projects and work closely with the center’s Brand Manager.
• Incorporate universal design practices and accessibility techniques into all projects.
• Incorporate sustainable design practices into all projects.
• Other duties as assigned.

POSITION QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in design, Architecture, Museum Studies, or a related field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in exhibition design, interior design, or a related field, preferably in a museum or cultural institution.
• Strong project management skills, proficiency in design software (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD), excellent communication and collaboration skills, and a keen eye for detail.
• Understanding of museum practices and visitor engagement strategies.

• Creative thinker, problem solver, and team player with a passion for design and education.
• Proficiency using Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience developing and managing budgets.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively with internal and external vendors and/or contractors.
• Must be self-motivated with the ability to work with limited daily supervision.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented work environment.
• Ability to travel and work nights/weekends as needed.

Salary Range: $95,000-$120,000 (Commensurate with experience)