Narrative Design Lead

About the role

Serve as a primary client contact on interpretive and exhibit development; lead workshops, pitch ideas, and field feedback with clarity and confidence.

Research wide-ranging topics in depth and distill complex material into clear, compelling messaging for clients and the public.

Develop and refine storylines, interpretive plans, and content outlines aligned to each project's goals and audiences.

Champion the "voice of the visitor," ensuring experiences are accessible, inclusive, and meaningful—for clients and the people they serve.

Collaborate with 2D/3D designers, developers, and media specialists to weave storytelling seamlessly into the overall experience.

Partner with Creative and Project leads to plan tasks, allocate resources, and meet budgets and deadlines.

Identify needs for freelancers or subject-matter experts and bring them to project leadership.

Mentor junior designers—reviewing interpretive plans and content outlines, leading creative reviews, and sharing best practices in storytelling and interpretation.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary client contact on interpretive and exhibit development; lead workshops, pitch ideas, and field feedback with clarity and confidence.
• Research wide-ranging topics in depth and distill complex material into clear, compelling messaging for clients and the public.
• Develop and refine storylines, interpretive plans, and content outlines aligned to each project's goals and audiences.
• Champion the "voice of the visitor," ensuring experiences are accessible, inclusive, and meaningful—for clients and the people they serve.
• Collaborate with 2D/3D designers, developers, and media specialists to weave storytelling seamlessly into the overall experience.
• Partner with Creative and Project leads to plan tasks, allocate resources, and meet budgets and deadlines.
• Identify needs for freelancers or subject-matter experts and bring them to project leadership.
• Mentor junior designers—reviewing interpretive plans and content outlines, leading creative reviews, and sharing best practices in storytelling and interpretation.

Requirements

• 8+ years in exhibit development, museum content creation, or interpretive planning.
• Bachelor's degree in Museum Studies, History, Education, Design, or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• A confident public speaker who can articulate ideas to clients, stakeholders, and teammates in formal and informal settings.
• Experience guiding junior team members with clear, constructive feedback.
• A passion for audience-centered design, storytelling, and alternative learning methods—plus familiarity with Inclusive and Universal Design.
• Adaptability and creative problem-solving when content, timelines, or resources shift.

Qualifications

• In-studio a minimum of 3 days/week at our Chicago, New York City, or Seattle office.
• Some travel for client meetings, site visits, installations, and professional development.

Skills

• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience with exhibit development, museum content creation, or interpretive planning.
• Familiarity with Inclusive and Universal Design principles.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Flexible working hours.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Health insurance coverage.

Pay

• $100,000 - $120,000 annually.

Schedule

• Full-time position.