📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Creative Services Designer
🔹 Company: Oklahoma City Zoo
🔹 Location: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
🔹 Job Type: Full-Time
🔹 Category: Museums, Historical Sites, and Zoos
🔹 Date Posted: July 10, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Designing and developing brand collateral for print and digital platforms
- Creating habitat signage and wayfinding solutions
- Developing digital media and event promotion materials
- Collaborating with internal stakeholders to understand design needs
- Maintaining a highly organized creative assets digital library
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong background in graphic design and signage production, with a focus on creating engaging visuals that align with the Zoo's brand guidelines.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Design and develop brand collateral, including in-park signage, brochures, posters, banners, and digital assets
✅ Assist in the design, production, and installation of polished signage for animal habitats, wayfinding, and other in-park displays
✅ Develop visually appealing graphics for the Zoo's website, social media platforms, and advertising campaigns
✅ Conceptualize and design promotional materials for special events, educational programs, and seasonal campaigns
✅ Collaborate with internal stakeholders to understand their design needs and deliver creative solutions
ASSUMPTION: The Creative Services Designer will work closely with the marketing and public relations team, as well as other departments, to ensure cohesive and effective communication across various platforms.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or related field
Experience: Three (3) years related work experience in graphic design and signage production OR, an equivalent combination of education and experience to perform the essential duties of the job.
Required Skills:
- Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Strong knowledge of brand development and management
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
- Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with 3D modeling software (e.g., SketchUp, Blender)
- Fluency in Spanish (both written and verbal)
- Experience working in a zoo or related environment
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in both graphic design and signage production will be highly competitive for this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $21.20 - $26.50 per hour
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Paid time off (vacation, sick, and holidays)
- Employee discounts at the Zoo's gift shop and café
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week. The Zoo is open seven days a week, and some weekend and evening work may be required.
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is based on the job posting and is subject to change. Benefits information is based on industry standards for non-profit organizations.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: The Oklahoma City Zoo is a non-profit organization dedicated to conservation, education, and providing a fun and engaging experience for visitors. It is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a member of the American Alliance of Museums.
Company Size: The Zoo has between 201 and 500 employees, providing a mid-sized work environment with opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Founded: The Oklahoma City Zoo was founded in 1902 and has since grown to span over 120 acres, housing more than 1,100 animals and welcoming over 1 million visitors annually.
Company Description:
- The Zoo is committed to informing and inspiring guests to conserve and protect the world's vanishing wildlife and wild places.
- It offers a variety of educational programs, special events, and conservation efforts to engage the community and promote its mission.
- The OKC Zoo is a proud member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the American Alliance of Museums, and Oklahoma City's Adventure District.
Company Specialties:
- Animal care and conservation
- Education and public programming
- Veterinary care
- Family recreation and visitor experience
Company Website: http://www.okczoo.org
ASSUMPTION: The Oklahoma City Zoo places a strong emphasis on its mission and values, making it an ideal fit for candidates passionate about conservation and education.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: This role is an entry to mid-level position within the creative services department, offering opportunities for growth and advancement.
Reporting Structure: The Creative Services Designer reports directly to the Creative Services Manager and works closely with the Chief Marketing Officer.
Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position, requiring the designer to work both indoors and outdoors in a zoo setting.
Growth Opportunities:
- Advancement within the creative services department, such as a promotion to Senior Designer or Manager
- Expanding skills and knowledge in areas like 3D modeling or video production
- Gaining experience in event planning and execution through collaboration with the events team
ASSUMPTION: The Oklahoma City Zoo offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: The Zoo's main office is located on the zoo grounds, with additional workspaces throughout the park for specific projects or events.
Office Location(s): 2101 NE 50th St, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma 73111, US
Geographic Context:
- The Zoo is situated in Oklahoma City, offering a vibrant urban environment with numerous cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Oklahoma City has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cold winters, which may impact outdoor work conditions.
- The city is known for its friendly and welcoming community, with a strong sense of civic pride.
Work Schedule: The Zoo is open seven days a week, and some weekend and evening work may be required. The Creative Services Designer's work schedule will align with the Zoo's operating hours and may include flexible scheduling to accommodate special events or projects.
ASSUMPTION: The work environment at the Oklahoma City Zoo is fast-paced and dynamic, with a focus on teamwork and collaboration to achieve the Zoo's mission and goals.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening with the Human Resources department
- In-person or virtual interview with the Creative Services Manager and Chief Marketing Officer
- Portfolio review and creative challenge (if applicable)
- Final decision and offer
Key Assessment Areas:
- Graphic design skills and portfolio
- Understanding of the Zoo's brand and mission
- Communication and collaboration skills
- Problem-solving abilities and adaptability
- Cultural fit and alignment with the Zoo's values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best work, with a focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to create engaging visuals for print and digital platforms.
- Research the Oklahoma City Zoo and be prepared to discuss your enthusiasm for its mission and values during the interview process.
ATS Keywords: Graphic Design, Signage Production, Digital Media, Print Design, Brand Development, Collaboration, Communication, Event Promotion, Creative Problem Solving, Visual Arts, Project Management, Attention to Detail, Organizational Skills, Fabrication, Installation, Marketing
ASSUMPTION: The application process for the Oklahoma City Zoo may vary depending on the specific needs of the department or the current hiring manager. Applicants should be prepared to adapt their approach based on the feedback received during the interview process.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
- Microsoft Office Suite
- 3D modeling software (e.g., SketchUp, Blender) - preferred
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello) - preferred
ASSUMPTION: The Creative Services Designer will be expected to have a strong working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite and proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite. Familiarity with 3D modeling software and project management tools is preferred but not required.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Excellence in animal care and conservation
- Commitment to education and community engagement
- Integrity and accountability in all actions
- Collaboration and teamwork to achieve common goals
- Innovation and continuous improvement
Work Style:
- Adaptable and flexible, with the ability to work both independently and in a team environment
- Strong communication and collaboration skills
- Attention to detail and a commitment to quality
- Passionate about the Zoo's mission and dedicated to its success
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a strong commitment to the Oklahoma City Zoo's mission and values?
- Are you able to work effectively in a dynamic and fast-paced environment, with a focus on teamwork and collaboration?
- Do you have a strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality work?
ASSUMPTION: The Oklahoma City Zoo places a strong emphasis on its mission and values, making it an ideal fit for candidates who are passionate about conservation and education and who possess the necessary skills and work style to thrive in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Working outdoors in various weather conditions
- Managing multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously
- Adapting to changes in priorities or project scope
- Balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders with varying design requests
ASSUMPTION: The Creative Services Designer will need to be adaptable and able to manage multiple projects and priorities effectively to succeed in this role.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Unlike other graphic design roles, this position requires experience in signage production and fabrication, as well as a strong understanding of wayfinding principles.
- This role is unique to the zoo industry, with a focus on creating engaging visuals that align with the Zoo's brand and mission.
- Career progression in this role may include opportunities to advance within the creative services department or explore other areas of the Zoo, such as education or conservation.
ASSUMPTION: The Oklahoma City Zoo's Creative Services Designer role is unique to the zoo industry and offers a dynamic and engaging work environment for candidates with a strong background in graphic design and signage production.
📝 Sample Projects
- Designing and installing habitat signage for a new animal exhibit
- Creating promotional materials for a special event, such as a fundraising gala or educational program
- Developing a comprehensive brand style guide for the Zoo, outlining visual identity elements and usage guidelines
ASSUMPTION: The Creative Services Designer will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects that showcase their skills and contribute to the Zoo's mission and goals.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the creative services department's role within the Zoo's overall marketing and communications strategy?
- How does the Creative Services Manager support the growth and development of team members?
- What opportunities exist for collaboration with other departments, such as education or conservation science?
- How does the Zoo measure the success of its creative services efforts, and what metrics are used to evaluate performance?
- What is the typical career path for someone in this role, and what opportunities exist for growth and advancement within the creative services department or the Zoo as a whole?
ASSUMPTION: Applicants should use the interview process to gain a deeper understanding of the role, the department, and the Zoo's mission and values, as well as to demonstrate their enthusiasm and qualifications for the position.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role.
- Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best work, with a focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to create engaging visuals for print and digital platforms.
- Research the Oklahoma City Zoo and be prepared to discuss your enthusiasm for its mission and values during the interview process.
- Follow up with the Human Resources department one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about the status of your application.
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
