Environmental Designer

Thisismkg; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Part time

Job summary

Thisismkg is seeking a mid-level Environmental Designer in Los Angeles, responsible for the art direction and design of branded spaces. The role involves leading projects, collaborating with teams, and managing interns. With 2-5 years in design and a strong portfolio, candidates should have proficiency in SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite. Candidates must be flexible for occasional travel and non-traditional hours. This position starts short-term before transitioning to a full-time role.

Qualifications

• 2-5 years of experience in environmental design or related fields.
• Portfolio showcasing spatial design work, particularly brand-specific.
• Experience designing physical environments and displays.

Responsibilities

• Lead design efforts and manage interns.
• Collaborate in creating design concepts and art direction.
• Present design work to clients and incorporate feedback.

Skills

Proven creative execution

Excellent communication skills

Attention to detail

3D design proficiency

Time management

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Industrial Design, Environmental/Exhibition Design, Architecture, or related field

Tools

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop)

Rendering programs (Enscape, V-Ray)

Job description

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.

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.

Overview of the Role

We’ll need a designer to 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

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.