Ralph Appelbaum Associates

Ralph Appelbaum Associates is seeking a full-time Physical Designer to join our studio in Berlin. Skills in architecture, interior design, and exhibition design are all relevant to the work of a Physical Designer at RAA.

Working closely with the members of our multidisciplinary team, you will be responsible for translating exhibition concepts with content into expressive design, from the first ideas to the technical details. In developing the design, you will be responsible for integrating content, digital media, graphics, lighting and architecture.

Nearly a half century ago, Ralph Appelbaum Associates (RAA) pioneered a new approach to learning in public. RAA is now the world’s largest practice dedicated to the planning and design of museums and narrative environments.

Today, we work on commissions of all sizes to use physical space as a medium for communication and dialogue. Our comprehensive creative and technical offerings uplift the missions and ideas of our clients. Past and current projects include many of the world’s most recognizable cultural attractions. Our studios are diverse and interdisciplinary: we draw together designers, architects, artists, historians, educators, media-makers, technologists, writers, and poets that are passionate about encouraging a mindful connection to the world around us.

Our work has been honored with every major award for design and communication, including the first-ever National Design Award for Communications Design. Connective and transformative experiences in public spaces are essential for individuals, communities, cities, and nations — now more than ever.

More than 75,000,000 people encounter our work every year.

• Draws/models exhibit objects in various digital design platforms
• Develops individual exhibits under direction of senior team members
• Prepares architectural drawings (plans, elevations, sections, details, etc.), ranging from conceptual studies to fabrication documents, under project staff supervision
• Builds physical models and mock-ups for internal study as well as client presentations
• Generates 3D models of exhibition spaces and elements
• Researches and helps to select materials, finishes, and equipment
• Researches materials and design techniques
• Develops exhibit fabrication details
• Produces digital models of designs
• Produces plans, sections, elevations and study models of gallery schemes
• Prepares interim, study, and workshop visualizations
• Participates in internal design meetings and client workshops

• Degree in Exhibit Design, Architecture, Industrial Design, Interior Design, or related fields
• 3+ years of experience in exhibition design or related design discipline
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
• Excellent ability to write and speak in English is required
• Excellent ability to write and speak in German is a plus
• Strong organizational, multi-tasking, and time-management skills
• Proactive approach to time and task management
• Strong attention to detail
• Proficiency in Vectorworks
• Proficiency in a 3D modeling program, such as Rhino, Grasshopper, or Sketchup a plus
• Rendering or other visualization skills are a plus
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace

Qualified candidates will be contacted via email regarding our interview process. To apply for this role, please send a cover letter, CV, and portfolio to humanresources@raai.com.

RAA is an equal opportunity practice that is committed to furthering diversity and inclusion in our studio. RAA does not discriminate in employment or access to its programs or activities on the basis of: race; color; creed; religion; gender; gender identity or expression; sex; sexual orientation; national origin or ancestry; citizenship status; health or genetic information; age; marital status; mental or physical disability; pregnancy; political affiliation; arrest record; past, present, or future service in the uniformed services; or any other legally protected status. Our policy of non-discrimination applies to all personnel practices, including, but not limited to, recruitment, project assignments, professional development, compensation, or any other employment practice. We strongly encourage women, people of color, and candidates from other underrepresented communities to apply.