Displays Specialist

Description

The Printing and Displays team are seeking a skilled and detail‑oriented Display Specialist to join our dynamic team. In collaboration with exhibit specialists, graphic artists, and technical editors, this role is responsible for the end‑to‑end production and installation of large‑format displays, wall graphics, and exhibit booths for internal and external events. These designs are created by in‑house design teams for APL staff, sponsors, and partners.

This position requires strong organizational, communication, and project management skills, along with hands‑on experience in display design, printing, fabrication, and installation.

As a Displays Specialist you will....

• Collaborate with clients to understand exhibit needs and develop accurate cost estimates.
• Work closely with cross‑functional teams including graphic artists, technical editors, and vendors.
• Meet with internal stakeholders and external sponsors to capture large format requirements, develop accurate cost estimates, and maintain clear, timely communication.
• Provide technical input during design development phases.
• Maintain clear communication throughout all project phases.
• Oversee all aspects of printing and displays projects from concept through delivery, coordinating with graphic designers, technical editors, and stakeholders.
• Troubleshoot technical issues during fabrication and installation phases.
• Manage project schedules and timelines to meet critical milestones and deadlines.
• Oversee large format printing, cutting, fabrication, assembly, and onsite display construction; troubleshoot issues and ensure safety standards are met.
• Ensure timely completion of milestones by effectively managing project timelines and addressing competing priorities.
• Support rapid ideation and prototyping during brainstorming sessions, including sketching and conceptual development.
• Assist in the setup and installation of displays at various locations.
• Maintain a safe and organized workspace at all times.
• Identify process enhancements, adopt new printing/fabrication technologies, and mentor junior staff as needed.
• Operate APL vehicles to conference rooms and specialized facilities.
• Other duties as assigned.

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Bachelor's degree in Graphic Design, Architectural Design, Industrial Design, or related field; plus 4+ years of professional experience in a printing or fabrication environment, including at least 2 years in exhibit design and construction, or equivalent year of experience.
• Demonstrated ability to lead printing and displays projects from start to finish.
• Strong proficiency in both Mac and Windows environments.
• Expertise with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, Acrobat), Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word), and cross‑platform tools.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work independently and collaboratively in fast‑paced environments.
• Proven track record of managing multiple deadlines and priorities under pressure.
• Understanding of various printing and fabrication techniques and materials.
• Hold an active Secret security clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
• Must maintain a clean, safe, and efficient workspace.
• Requires valid state‑of‑residence driver's license in good standing.

• Experience working across all levels of an organization, including senior leadership.
• Advanced large format printing, illustration, drawing, and layout capabilities.
• Comfortable supporting real‑time creative processes and in‑situ prototyping.

• Occasional irregular hours required, including weekends and evenings when necessary.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds repeatedly and handle large, unwieldy materials.
• Must be able to safely climb ladders up to 20 feet high.

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space…