Retail Brand Environmental Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Description

ABOUT MKG

Founded in 2003, MKG is a women-led creative agency specializing in brand experience. From moments to movements, our work breaks through culture by connecting brands with their people. We're obsessively curious problem solvers who humanize brands through creative storytelling, purpose-driven engagement, beautiful design and impeccable production. We're proud to be long-standing partners to brands like Google, Target, Netflix, Meta, HBO, Delta Air Lines, Beis and Spotify and have offices in NYC and LA, but work everywhere else, too.

WORKING AT MKG

We're in the business of experience. We aim to create incredible experiences for everyone - that includes consumers, our clients, and our teammates as well. We care deeply about the journey just as much as the final product. So while you'll be working hard to check all the details (twice) to make sure the work is flawless, you'll be shoulder to shoulder with some of the brightest, most compassionate and collaborative people in the industry. 

We have offices in NYC and LA. Candidates should be within commuting distance of either office and will need to be available for in-person collaboration on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

This position will begin with a four month short term position before converting to full time.

MKG is looking for a talented and versatile mid-level Environmental Designer, who will be responsible for the art direction, concepting and design of branded spaces and experiences. This person will work both independently and collaboratively at varying capacities: leading 3D on projects individually, leading projects in partnership with a teammate or supporting portions of projects a more senior teammate is leading.

WHAT YOU WILL DO IN THIS ROLE:

• Take on Environmental Design Lead roles (on small to medium projects) and Environmental Design Support roles (on larger projects). 
• Work as part of a Creative Team within a Project Team - Typically working under ACDs or CDs, closely collaborating with 2D Designers, Environmental Designers and Creative Strategists while collaborating effectively with a larger project team of Producers and Account Managers., etc.
• Participate in the creative ideation phase and brainstorms to contribute ideas and perspectives 
• Lead site visits and surveys to gather accurate information and dimensions 
• Build accurate floor plans to communicate experience flows and layouts
• Develop original design concepts and art direction through mood boards and sketches
• Model and render entire spaces and custom scenic pieces to communicate and sell through design concepts 
• Design with close attention to project budgets and timelines, ensuring efficient use of resources and that concepts are feasible before being presented to clients 
• Co-manage fabrication vendors in collaboration with Production, creating and managing build lists for quotes, and performing value engineering as necessary
• Manage the selection of props, furniture, and decor and maintain organized documentation for all sourced items
• Deliver and present design work directly to clients, articulating design decisions to sell work
• Maintain clear and effective communication with clients, addressing their needs and incorporating feedback into design revisions
• Lead design efforts during load-ins and installs, ensuring the execution aligns with design specifications
• Manage and mentor 3D interns 

Requirements

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THIS ROLE: 

Given the nature of experiential work, this role may require occasional travel and flexibility to work non-traditional hours, including evenings and weekends, as business needs arise

• Proven creative execution with 2-5 years of experience.
• Degree or experience in Industrial Design, Environmental/Exhibition Design, Architecture, Interior Design, or related field.
• Portfolio of spatial design work-brand experience-specific work is advantageous
• Experience in designing physical environments, sets, and displays.
• Proficiency in 3D programs (e.g., SketchUp) and Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator and Photoshop)
• Proficiency in rendering programs like Enscape or V-Ray
• Knowledge and curiosity around ai tools and image generation 
• Hand sketching skills are a plus
• Experience working with brands, adhering to brand guidelines and pushing brand guidelines 
• Passion for staying updated and ahead of design and cultural trends
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills
• Acute attention to detail, high level of organization, and diligent in follow-through
• Strong time management and the ability to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously
• Some experience with fabrication shops and other external partners