Director of Exhibits & Design at Fleet Science Center in San Diego, California

Job Description:

The Fleet Science Center is a multi-faceted, county-wide organization that works with communities across the San Diego region to leverage STEM expertise and learning in support of their unique community goals and aspirations. In addition to welcoming visitors to our Balboa Park facility, the Fleet co-develops programs with neighborhoods across the county and partners with San Diego’s scientists, engineers, educators and STEM organizations to build collective capacity. With a vision to realize a San Diego where everyone is connected to the power of science, we view our work as being at the service of, and in collaboration with, community.

The Director of Exhibits & Design provides leadership, vision, and management of exhibition and design projects that advance the Fleet’s mission and strategic initiatives. This position leads teams charged with translating STEM concepts into fun, memorable and human-centered experiences that tell inspiring stories while meeting strong educational goals. The Director also oversees the Fleet’s Graphic Design team and helps establish the organization’s overall design direction.

This is a full-time position, eligible for the Fleet's employee benefit package including medical, dental, vision, life insurance and 401k, in addition to paid vacation, holidays and sick time. Also enjoy free admission, perks, & discounts at many other museums in Balboa Park, as well as complimentary Fleet passes monthly for friends and family! This position works onsite at the Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Lead all aspects, from conceptualization to development and implementation of interactive exhibit projects both long-term and temporary. Establish the overall design direction, look and feel for the projects . Adapt and apply new techniques to create innovative experiences and develop new ways to help diverse visitors make meaning of scientific phenomena through their interactions with exhibits.


• Work closely with the Visitor Experience, Marketing, Membership, and Education teams to create experiences that help visitors engage with the Science Center and develop a sense of belonging and desire to return.


• Foster a collaborative, growth-oriented environment for the exhibits and design staff. Encourage innovation, enhance team members' technical and creative skills, and ensure alignment with the strategic goals of the organization, empowering them to take ownership of their roles and contribute to high-quality, impactful project solutions.


• Provide oversight and strategic direction to the Fleet’s Graphic Designers, who provide in-house design services to all Fleet departments. Help establish priorities and ensure overall alignment between Fleet’s mission and various design projects and initiatives.


• Ensure that all exhibit experiences on the science center floor exceed the expectations of visitors. Oversee the maintenance, repair, and replacement of exhibit pieces. Coordinate with the Facilities & Engineering team, as needed, to ensure safety and functionality of interactives on the gallery floor.


• Work with the Vice President of Community Service & Engagement to establish the overall short- and long-term exhibit plans, including providing funding priorities and budget projections.


• Prepare and monitor the overall budget for the Exhibits & Design Department.


• Coordinate exhibit changeovers, including procurement of traveling exhibits, as needed.


• Serve as a member of the Fleet’s Senior Staff, collaborating with other department leaders on the Fleet’s overall strategic direction.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of 7 to 10 years’ experience in interactive Science Center exhibit development.


• Minimum of 7 to 10 years of management experience in the science center or related informal education fields. Experience as a collaborative, empathetic leader.


• Previous experience serving on a senior leadership team or serving in an organization-wide leadership capacity.


• A commitment to an inclusive, equitable workplace.


• Demonstrated understanding of budget development and tracking as well as developing successful grant proposals.


• Basic knowledge of graphic design and design principles and methodologies.


• Demonstrated familiarity with science museum interpretation techniques.


• Excellent research, project planning, and organizational skills.


• Familiarity with and enthusiasm for informal, inquiry-based, hands-on STEM learning, and science communication. Bachelor’s degree in design, science, or related field from an appropriately accredited institution a plus.