Graphics Technician

Position Overview

Under supervision, an Exhibits Preparator/Graphics Technician is primarily responsible for:  develop a brand style guide for each exhibit, use style guide in the creation of educational materials (pamphlets, brochures, flyers, etc.) for museum programs, events, and workshops, creates logos and graphics for the marketing of Museum exhibits and programs; provides mock-ups or renderings of signage layout and design for curatorial and interpretive review; operates large-format and oversize full-color printers, laminators, and vinyl cutting machine in the production of exhibit graphic components and signage; print & mount interpretive panels and object labels. Additionally, as a member of the Exhibits Team, this position participates in exhibition installation and deinstallation at the Museum and other ISM-affiliated sites; supports exhibit maintenance and repair needs; and organizes, maintains, and archives accurate project graphic files and records for clear and logical retrieval and reproduction.  

Each staff member is expected to create work that is visible to the residents of Illinois; work in a team environment across geographic locations and disciplines; perform at a level that reflects national standards and best practices of an accredited museum and brings state, national, and/or international recognition to the Museum; follow all relevant state and federal laws; and abide by professional museum ethics. 

We welcome interested applicants who would like to be part of this team to apply today.

Essential Functions

• Under the supervision of the Exhibits Production Lead works toward established goals in the ISM's strategic plan and the Museum's exhibit plan; and functions as a preparator responsible for developing graphic design packages for temporary and permanent exhibits, and related educational programming and marketing


• Under the supervision of the Exhibits Production Lead works toward established goals in the ISM's strategic plan and the Museum's exhibit plan; and functions as a preparator responsible for creating and fabricating exhibition interpretive panels and object lables, wayfinding & operational signage, and informational displays


• Participates in the preparation, installation, updating, maintenance, and dismantling of exhibitions and exhibition components at the Museum and other ISM-affiliated sites


• Supports exhibit maintenance and repair needs


• Maintains a clean, organized, and safe work environment


• Assists other Exhibit Preparators with their primary duties as necessary (including but not limited to: cutting and assembling mats for photographs and prints, framing artwork, adjusting gallery lighting, construction of exhibit components


• Performs other duties as required or assigned which are reasonably within the scope of the duties enumerated above

Minimum Qualifications

• Requires a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in graphic design, visual communications, communications, commercial and advertising arts, digital arts, or a related field.


• Requires a minimum of 5 years' relevant work experience in graphic design, communications, commercial or advertising arts, digital arts, or a closely related field.


• Requires advanced proficiency in 2D composition & layout, typography, iconography, infographics, and/or digital print mechanicals. 

Preferred Qualifications

• Four (4) years’ of experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) software.


• Three (3) years’ working experience with Microsoft Office 365 (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, OneDrive, SharePoint) and other desktop design and publishing programs on a Windows operating system.


• Four (4) years’ of experience with tools, equipment, and materials used in production of permanent and temporary graphics (large format digital printers, vinyl cutters, laminators, and various mounting and installation techniques, and associated safety practices).


• Two (2) years’ of experience preparing digital mechanical files for print, and an ability to effectively communicate with other design-specific contractors and printing vendors. 

Employment Conditions

• Requires completion of a background check and self-disclosure of criminal history


• Requires appropriate, valid Driver's license


• Requires ability to travel in performance of duties, with overnight stays as appropriate. 


• Requires ability to operate and maintain tools and equipment


• Requires ability to carry and transport up to 35 pounds

The conditions of employment lised here are incorporated and related to any of the job duties as listed in the job description

Agency and Division Statements

Agency Statement
Charged with preserving, protecting and promoting Illinois’ natural and cultural resources, Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) employees oversee water, wildlife, wetlands and oil wells, parks, historic sites – and everything in between. Employment opportunities vary greatly, often providing employees the chance to work indoors and out in a dynamic yet relaxed environment. Working for the State of Illinois, IDNR employees receive excellent benefits, including, vision health and dental insurance; a retirement plan and deferred compensation options; state holidays and other time off; as well as pre-tax benefit programs.

ISM Division Statement

The State Museum is a division of IDNR.  The mission of the Illinois State Museum (ISM), an American Alliance of Museums accredited institution, is to promote discovery, lifelong learning, and stewardship of the natural and cultural heritage of Illinois.  It strives to integrate its original research and diverse collections to advance knowledge and create thought-provoking exhibitions and educational programs and resources. The Illinois State Museum is committed to creating an inclusive workplace that is mindful of community stories and lived experiences.