Exhibition designer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role

University

You'll normally need a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• spatial design (exhibitions)
• interior design
• three-dimensional (3D) design
• interior architecture

You may also find exhibition design options as part of some events management, and museums and galleries courses.

Entry requirements:

• a foundation diploma in art and design
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Work

You may be able to get into this type of work as a junior design assistant. To do this, you are likely to need a qualification in art and design, like a diploma or an A level.

You are also likely to need experience in using computer-aided design (CAD) software packages.

Volunteering

You could volunteer to help set up exhibitions, for example with local arts festivals or in libraries.

This would help you gain practical skills as well as an insight into the project management that goes on behind the scenes.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• knowledge of the fine arts
• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• the ability to use your initiative
• the ability to work well with others
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
• excellent verbal communication skills
• knowledge of English language
• thinking and reasoning skills
• the ability to read English
• maths knowledge
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• leadership skills
• knowledge of building and construction
• an interest and knowledge of history
• active listening skills
• operations analysis skills
• concentration skills
• the ability to work well with your hands

What you'll do:

Exhibition designers work with organisations and individuals to turn their ideas into engaging displays.

In your day-to-day duties you may:

• discuss requirements with clients
• present your ideas as sketches, scale plans, computer-generated visuals and models
• produce final blueprints after discussions with clients
• handle orders for supplies
• liaise with technical specialists like lighting staff
• project manage the set-up process from start to finish

Location : You could work at events, at a conference centre or in an office.
Environment : Your working environment may be you'll travel often and you may spend nights away from home.

Salary:

Starter : £18,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

39 - 41 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings / weekends attending events or appointments

Career Path:

With experience you may be able to progress to a more senior position, like team leader or senior designer.

You could also become freelance, or set up your own company.