Exhibit Project Manager

Design and Production Incorporated; Lorton (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Design & Production Inc. in the United States is seeking an Exhibit Project Manager to lead high-profile museum and exhibit projects from planning through final installation.

You'll collaborate with fabricators, engineers, designers, estimators, and construction professionals to transform ambitious concepts into memorable physical experiences. Strong leadership and client-facing communication are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing large-scale, complex construction and exhibit projects.
• Track record of delivering projects on schedule and within budget.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Own complex museum and exhibit projects from planning through final installation.
• Lead project execution, ensuring timelines, budgets, quality, and client expectations.
• Develop plans, identify priorities, and proactively resolve challenges.
• Coordinate with estimating, senior leadership, and production teams.
• Maintain clear communication with clients, suppliers, and partners.

Skills

Project management

Budgeting

Scheduling

Client communication

Leadership

Cross-functional teamwork

Job description

Build Experiences That Inspire Millions.

What if your next project wasn't just another construction project, but a world-class museum experience that visitors will remember for years?

At Design & Production Inc. (D&P), we don't just build exhibits. We bring stories, history, culture, and creativity to life through extraordinary, large-scale museum experiences.

With over 75 years of expertise, D&P is a recognized leader in the design, fabrication, and installation of complex exhibits for museums, cultural institutions, and high-profile destinations.

As part of Museum Studio, the global museum business of Paris-based Chargeurs, we combine decades of American craftsmanship and technical excellence with the reach and ambition of an international creative organization.

Our projects are ambitious, highly customized, technically challenging, and often years in the making. They bring together construction, engineering, fabrication, technology, and storytelling.

We're looking for an Exhibit Project Manager who thrives on complexity, takes ownership, and wants to see extraordinary projects come to life.

The Opportunity

This isn't your typical Project Manager role.

You'll lead the execution of high-profile museum and exhibit projects, overseeing everything from planning and fabrication to installation and final delivery.

You'll work alongside talented fabricators, engineers, designers, estimators, construction professionals, and creative teams to transform ambitious concepts into unforgettable physical experiences.

You'll be the person who connects the dots, anticipates challenges, drives progress, and ensures that every detail comes together.

If you love building things that are anything but ordinary, this role is for you.

What You'll Be Doing

Own the Project. Drive the Vision.

• Take ownership of complex, custom-built museum and exhibit projects from initial planning through final installation.
• Lead project execution, ensuring timelines, budgets, quality standards, and client expectations are met.
• Develop strategic action plans, identify priorities, and proactively resolve challenges.
• Serve as a trusted point of contact for clients, internal teams, and subcontractors.
• Bring together multiple disciplines to deliver a seamless project experience.

Turn Complex Plans into Reality.

• Partner with estimating and senior leadership to define project scope, objectives, and deliverables.
• Build and manage detailed project schedules, resource plans, and execution strategies.
• Coordinate engineering, fabrication, production, installation, and external construction partners.
• Anticipate potential risks and adapt plans to keep projects moving forward.
• Ensure clear communication and alignment among all stakeholders.

Lead from Concept to Installation.

• Monitor progress across all phases of project delivery.
• Work closely with production teams and shop operations to translate designs into high-quality finished experiences.
• Coordinate with subcontractors and installation teams to ensure successful on-site execution.
• Troubleshoot technical and operational challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset.
• Champion craftsmanship, quality, and safety throughout every stage.

Manage the Business Behind the Build.

• Oversee project budgets, expenditures, and financial performance.
• Track costs, manage financial documentation, and provide accurate reporting.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and project partners.
• Ensure accountability, operational efficiency, and project profitability.

What You'll Bring

We're looking for a hands‑on, solutions‑driven Project Manager who combines technical understanding with strong leadership and a genuine passion for delivering exceptional projects.

Ideally, you'll have:

• Proven experience managing large‑scale, complex, custom construction, exhibit fabrication, or specialty installation projects.
• A strong track record of delivering projects on schedule and within budget.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams, subcontractors, and external stakeholders.
• Excellent project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong client-facing communication and relationship‑management abilities.
• The confidence to make decisions, take ownership, and navigate challenging project environments.
• A collaborative mindset and the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, project‑driven business.

Even Better If You Have:

• Experience in museum exhibits, experiential environments, themed entertainment, or architectural fabrication.
• Familiarity with custom millwork, specialty construction, audiovisual systems, lighting, or interactive installations.
• Experience working on complex, multi‑year projects involving multiple technical disciplines.

Why Join D&P?

Create Work That Lasts.

Your projects won't simply be completed and forgotten. They'll become destinations where visitors discover history, experience culture, and connect with extraordinary stories.

Work on Projects That Challenge You.

No two projects are alike. From intricate custom fabrication to large‑scale installations, you'll tackle ambitious challenges that push the boundaries of traditional construction.

Collaborate with Exceptional Talent.

Work alongside skilled craftspeople, engineers, designers, and technical experts who share a passion for bringing remarkable experiences to life.

Be Part of Something Bigger.

Combine the expertise and heritage of D&P with the international reach of Museum Studio, contributing to a global network dedicated to creating exceptional cultural experiences.

Ready to Build Something Extraordinary?

If you're a Project Manager who loves the challenge of turning complex ideas into reality, and you want your work to be experienced by audiences for years to come, we'd love to hear from you.

Join D&P and help us build the places where stories come to life.

Learn more: https://www.d-and-p.com

Design & Production Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. D&P is an E-Verify Employer.