Exhibition designer

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• working towards this role

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

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

You'll usually need:

• 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

You could apply to do a Scenic Construction Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship with an organisation.

You'll usually need:

• 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A
  * to
  
  C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship

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.

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.

You'll need to put together a portfolio of your work to highlight your design skills to show k experience would also give you an advantage when applying for training and jobs.

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

You'll need:

• 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
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

• 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
• work with technicians to build and fit displays and installations
• project manage the set-up process from start to finish

You could work at events, at a conference centre or in an office.

Your working environment may be you'll travel often and you may spend nights away from home.

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

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.

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

We can't find any apprenticeship vacancies in England for an exhibition designer right now.

The Find an apprenticeship service can help you with your search, send alerts when new apprenticeships become available and has advice on how to apply.

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