Graphic Design and Signage Specialist
Metro Parks Tacoma - Tacoma, Washington, us, 98417Work at Metro Parks Tacoma
Overview
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Overview
$27.74 - $29.41 Hourly
Location :
Tacoma, WA
Job Type:
Part-time Benefits Eligible
Job Number:
GDPDZA2024
Department:
Zoological and Environmental Education
Opening Date:
07/23/2024
Closing Date:
8/13/2024 11:59 PM Pacific
Job Description
Based on our internal equity review process, the starting hourly wage for this position will be $27.74
The current full hourly range for this position is $27.74 - $29.41
Metro Parks Tacoma (MPT) is a CAPRA-accredited and AZA-accredited, independent park district that leads efforts to build a healthy, sustainable community. Metro Parks Tacoma is in Tacoma, Washington. The system is comprised of many different park facilities that offer residents a variety of recreational opportunities. From waterfront access to local neighborhood parks to large regional facilities and attractions, the MPT system is both a local community asset and regional destination.
CORE VALUESThese eight core values will guide future decisions, business and operations, and the manner in which MPT treats staff, customers and the community:• Passion • Courage • Belonging • Compassion • Trust • Collaboration • Safety • Fun
POINT DEFIANCE ZOO & AQUARIUMPoint Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is the only combined zoo and aquarium in the Pacific Northwest. The 29-acre zoological park was established in 1905 and attracts over 800,000 visitors a year. It is nationally accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), which ensures rigorously high standards of animal welfare, veterinary care, conservation, education and more. The Zoo sits within the 700-acre Point Defiance Park, offering spectacular views of Mount Rainier, the Olympic Mountains and Puget Sound. Point Defiance Zoo is operated by Metro Parks Tacoma, the oldest independent park district in Washington. We are committed to living our mission in our daily work: Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest. For more information, visit www.pdza.org
POSITION INFORMATIONThe Graphic Design & Signage Specialist will design, assemble and install zoo signage that helps connect guests to the animals and conservation stories of Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium. This position also supports the efforts of all departments to communicate animal updates, wayfinding and codes of conduct to guests. Our goal is to develop signage that works in concert with the exhibits and live interpreter programs to embody the zoo's mission:
"Awakening a connection to Wild Life with everyone in the Pacific Northwest."The Graphics Specialist will report to the Interpretive Content and Design Coordinator within the Conservation Engagement Department. This position will also work collaboratively with staff from other departments to ensure consistent messaging and design throughout the zoo.
Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium is seeking an individual with excellent design skills who is eager to create signage that is effective at engaging a broad audience, integrates with existing signage and exhibit design and supports the live animals as the focus.In the performance of their respective tasks and duties all employees are expected to:
Perform quality work within deadlines with or without direct supervision.Interact professionally with other employees, zoo visitors and suppliers.Work effectively as a team contributor on all assignments.Work independently while understanding the necessity for communicating and coordinating work efforts with other employees and organizations.Observe applicable safety requirements, use safety equipment provided, implement appropriate safety practices at all times and report immediately any unsafe working conditions or hazards.Essential Duties
Design, install and maintain signage throughout the Zoo (print and digital) including ID labels, interpretive graphics and signage related to zoo operations, public relations and safety.Coordinate with outside vendors to negotiate project deadlines, price estimates and execution to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.Work with in-house exhibit design teams to develop exhibit elements and designs that thematically support interpretive plans.Provide production support such as printing, laminating and mounting signs to accommodate graphics requests, temporary closures and animal moves.Coordinate with AV staff to maintain and update digital exhibit signage and exhibit interactives such as Brightsign monitors and media players.Perform on-grounds signage maintenance and cleaning.Assist with the design and simple fabrication of graphics mounting systems that are durable and complement the design of the graphic.Assist in the development of graphic style guides and design standards.Other related duties as required.Minimum Qualifications
Minimum of associate's degree in graphic design, art or related field. Two years of related experience may substitute for the degree.Two years of professional design experience (ideally in print production).Flexible, creative and positive problem-solving mindset.Desirable Qualifications:
Prior zoo, parks or museum experience is highly desirable.Experience with (or interest in learning about) a wide range of signage materials and fabrication techniques that can be applied to novel situations.Graphic illustration skills are a bonus.
Working knowledge:
Advanced graphic design and production skills for print and digital media. Sign assembly, mounting and installation techniques (or willingness to learn).Adobe Creative Suite (primarily Illustrator and Photoshop) and Microsoft Office 365.Printing processes and production schedule development.Practical applications of interpretive design concepts.
Abilities:
Create engaging content for audiences of different ages, abilities, experiences and backgrounds.Visually present complex information in an accessible manner for diverse audiences.Apply best practices in diversity, equity and inclusion to ensure signage is respectful and culturally sensitive to all zoo visitors.Prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced team environment with a focus on deadlines, details and accuracy.Manage time efficiently and effectively through scheduling and prioritizing.Flexible and open to changing priorities within compressed timelines.Interpret rules and regulations.Give and receive feedback in a constructive manner.Communicate clearly verbally and in writing.Speak, read and write English at a proficient level.Work within and contribute to the effectiveness of a team, respecting differences.Use power tools, such as drills, to perform basic sign installation.Carry out calculations accurately.Operate a large format printer, computer and software associated with position requirements.Familiarity or ability to learn to use PC operating systems (available hardware is PC, not MAC).Commit to upholding all Zoo safety and personnel policies and support the overall mission.
*This position requires you to submit a portfolio of your graphic design work, especially as it relates to signage (print and digital) and exhibits with your application.*
Additional Information
HOURS:
Due to the nature of the work, this is an on-site position.A consistent work schedule (preferably including Saturday coverage) is required, but there is some flexibility for hours and days.ENVIRONMENT:
Busy indoor office environment with frequent interruptions.Outdoor work environment in a variety of weather conditions.PHYSICAL ABILITIES:
Manual dexterity to operate computer keyboard and other office equipment.Sitting or standing for extended periods at a computer station.Hearing and speaking to exchange information.Sight (with color) to read, design and execute projects.Navigating zoo grounds.Lifting, carrying, and installing signage.Reasonable accommodations can be made based on individual need.HAZARDS:
Exposure to paints, solvents and adhesives.Occasional contact with potentially dissatisfied guestsMay work in close proximity to animal exhibits.
METRO PARKS TACOMA IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.All qualified persons will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, political affiliation, disability, or any other merit factor. Members of ethnic minorities, women, special disabled veterans, veterans of the Vietnam-era, recently separated veterans, and other protected veterans, persons of disability and/or persons age 40 and over are encouraged to apply.
MPT employs only U.S. citizens and lawfully authorized non-U.S. citizens. All new employees must show employment eligibility verification as required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services.
MPT is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, education, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact Human Resource (253) 305-1089 or HR@tacomaparks.com.
Employment is subject to a national background check.
This position is an at-will position with no written or implied contractual agreement.
OVERVIEW (more detailed information can be found at )
Retirement Plan:
All employees are covered under the Public Employees' Retirement System through the Washington State Department of Retirement Services (DRS).
Medical Benefits:
Employees are eligible to participate in a MPT group medical plan. Coverage begins the first of the month following the date of employment. Medical coverage is offered through Kaiser. If you enroll in a medical plan and add dependents you will be required to provide documentation to show eligibility.
Paid Time Off (PTO):
Employees in this classification accrue 4 hours of Paid Time Off (PTO) leave every pay period.
Sick Leave:
1 hour earned for every 40 hours worked.
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - SupportLinc provides emotional wellbeing and work-life balance resources to keep you at your best. Administered by CuraLinc Healthcare, the program offers guidance to help you address and resolve everyday issues at no cost to you or your family. Features include:
Community Center Fitness Pass -
All Metro Parks Tacoma employees get a Staff Pass to use at our community centers.The All Center Pass allows access to all four centers - Center at Norpoint, Eastside Community Center, People's Center and STAR Center - plus three indoor pools, all semi-outdoor fitness classes, and our exciting new online virtual community center.
Note: THIS BENEFIT OVERVIEW IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. ANY PROVISION CONTAINED HEREIN MAY BE MODIFIED AND/OR REVOKED WITHOUT NOTICE.
01
Please explain, in detail, your specific experience and skill sets as they relate to the job description.
02
This position requires you to submit a portfolio of your graphic design work, especially as it relates to signage (print and digital) and exhibits.Have you submitted these materials?
YesNo
03
Describe key considerations for developing effective signage in a zoo and aquarium environment. What are some approaches that would help make it accessible to zoo visitors of different ages, abilities and backgrounds?
Required Question