Position Summary

The Exhibit Artist is responsible for managing and performing highly skilled artistic work for new exhibits and renovation projects, and/or work orders involving rockwork, epoxy, or themed environments. The Artist will utilize sculpting, painting, carving, and other artistic skills to create desired results in a variety of applications such as themed finishes, exhibit fabrication, scenic work, and water features.
This position provides direction on exhibits fabrication and works closely with highly skilled contract labor artists and vendors, as needed.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Acts as primary creator of fabrication

• Assists in the development and execution of exhibit design

• Fabricates three-dimensional exhibit elements such as branches and rockwork for a variety of exhibits and displays

• Paints various types of prefabricated items, inclusive of samples made from wood, fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), glass fiber reinforced concrete (GFRC), plastics, steel (stainless, galvanized), and “castable” elements (e.g., sea stars, anemones, barnacles)

• Produces “Museum Quality” artistic theming work in terms of realistic resemblance to natural elements, in line with requirements of projects; helps Zoo teams to provide an exceptional display or exhibit to help communicate specific educational messages or wildlife-saving information

• Provides conceptual sketches and color renderings and provide basic plan view, elevations and cut section views of project or elements in project for review

• Oversees the theming construction process for new projects and renovations; anticipates the needs of the rockwork and themed applications for upcoming projects

• Research concepts and materials to utilize in exhibit design and development

• Manages schedule, scope, and budget of fabrication and exhibit design

• Estimates time and materials for each assigned project and relays this information directly to the Director of Exhibit Design

• Communicates effectively in person as well as via phone and email with Zoo staff, contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders as necessary to complete tasks on time and on budget

• Contributes to saving animals in the wild through reduction of waste, water, and energy use and inspiring guests and staff to take wildlife-protecting actions

• Considers fundamental physical requirements of animals in each exhibit as work is planned and executed

• Manages work areas and assures all staff are working in a safe manner using proper PPE (personal protective equipment) such as safety glasses, work gloves, ear protection and respirator masks

• Orders materials and supplies and keeps relevant materials in stock to complete projects in a timely manner

• Maintains log of weekly activity of major tasks worked on for contract or vendor personnel

• Performs other duties as assigned

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent and a minimum of 5 years relevant work experience or a combination of an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and work experience in artistic fabrication and/or construction

• Work independently and be able to solve problems onsite

• Use power and battery tools along with various hand tools on a limited basis

• Experienced in using a variety of materials, such as fiberglass, clay, concrete, etc.

• Be knowledgeable in themed carpentry

• Ability to build from plans, specifications, photos, and models

• Knowledge in working with units of measurement and scales

• Use spray equipment, pump sprayers, and various methods of paint application

About the Houston Zoo
The Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts with over 6,000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! There are over 2 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well-being of our residents and guests. We strive to ensure the protection of all the counterparts of the animals we have at the Zoo and in the wild.

Join the Houston Zoo and become a part of an organization that is focused on the preservation of wildlife and their habitats by combining conservation with education and promotion of sustainable livelihoods in the local communities. The Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Disclaimer  The above job description is meant to describe the general nature and level of work being performed; it is not intended to be construed as a complete inventory of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for the position.     This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee occupying this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform other job-related duties requested by their supervisor.    Requirements are representative of minimum levels of knowledge, skills and/or abilities. To perform this job successfully, the employee must possess the abilities or aptitudes to perform each duty proficiently. Continued employment remains on an at-will basis.    Benefits   This is a full-time position and offers the following benefits:   • Medical and Prescription Drug • Vision  • Dental  • Basic Life AD&D (100% Employer Paid)  • Short Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)  • Long Term Disability (100% Employer Paid)  • Supplemental Life  • Flexible Spending Account / Health Savings Account • 401k  • Free Zoo Membership  • Free Guest Passes  • Discounts on Food, Merchandise, Attractions, Admission and Programs     Houston Zoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer     We thank all applicants in advance for their interest in this position, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.