Event Designer
COMPANY DESCRIPTION
Van Wyck & Van Wyck and Workshop are sister event companies distinguished by innovative design and an unsurpassed level of service, with over 20 years of experience in the field. We are a dynamic, creative, and growth-oriented team with incredibly high production values. Van Wyck & Van Wyck is a highly regarded environmental design and event production firm with headquarters in New York City. We produce private celebrations ranging from stunning weddings on beaches and mountaintops to international destination experiences and not-for-profit events. www.vanwyck.net Workshop designs and produces engaging events that communicate a brand's message. We build experiences that create compelling content, heighten brand loyalty and influence purchase behavior. www.workshopworldwide.com
POSITION OVERVIEW
Van Wyck is seeking experienced Event Designers to join our creative team. In this role, you will partner with project managers and production teams to execute compelling event design, from full-scale spatial environments and conceptual elements to detailed hospitality touchpoints. You will bring aesthetic sophistication, technical design skills, and proven ability to move projects from concept through sourcing, fabrication, and on-site execution. This is a design-focused role for a creative professional who thrives under pressure, makes independent decisions with confidence, and has demonstrated success managing complex design projects with multiple stakeholders. You will lead design development, guide junior designers, collaborate with project and production teams, and deliver work that is both elevated and buildable. Mid-level and Senior-level Event Designer positions are available based on experience.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Day-to-day responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Design Support and Concept Development
- Lead the development of event concepts and creative presentations for prospective and existing clients
- Oversee research, sourcing, and procurement of event design elements; manage vendor relationships and negotiations
- Conceptualize and source distinctive event décor and design elements that elevate brand and event experience
- Explore and stay current on emerging trends across design-adjacent industries (architecture, fashion, interiors, art, etc.)
- Interpret client requirements and define the aesthetic framework for each project with project managers and team members
- Develop creative solutions to client needs and present these ideas confidently through visual proposals and supporting materials
Visual and Graphic Production
- Design compelling event concepts and visual presentations for client engagement and new business development
- Create detailed floor plans, elevations, and renderings; lead the technical documentation of design concepts
- Direct the creation of cohesive graphic designs for presentations, signage, collateral, and branded materials
Project and Production Support
- Lead vendor evaluation, material sourcing, and subcontractor selection; manage quality and timeline expectations
- Coordinate directly with fabricators, craftspeople, and installation teams; ensure design intent is maintained through execution
- Prepare comprehensive design documentation including concept memorandums, technical specifications, and production materials
- Manage project coordination across design, production, and logistics; collaborate with teams on budget and timeline
- Lead on-site design execution, problem-solving, and styling; ensure quality standards are met under pressure
On-Site, Administrative and Office Support
- Maintain design documentation, project records, and ensure all deliverables meet quality and timeliness standards
- May mentor junior designers and contribute to studio culture and team success
PAY & BENEFITS AT VAN WYCK & VAN WYCK
This position has an annual base salary range of $100,000 to $150,000. Actual compensation within this range will be determined based on the candidate's skills, experience, education, and other job-related factors permitted by law. In addition to base salary, employees may be eligible for other benefits that impact overall compensation or total rewards. Other benefits include: Paid Time Off (PTO): Enjoy flexible, discretionary PTO to balance your work and personal life, with manager approval and proper coverage Health Insurance: Comprehensive health benefits include medical, dental, and vision plans, with significant company contributions to premiums and options for FSA or HSA One Medical and Talkspace Memberships: Complimentary memberships providing primary care and mental health support 401(k) Retirement Plan: Participate in a retirement savings plan with pre-tax and Roth options after six months of employment with a discretionary company match Cell Phone Stipend: Receive a $100 monthly phone reimbursement after three months of employment Commuter Benefits: Take advantage of our pre-tax commuter benefits program to save on transit and parking expenses Gym Reimbursement: Stay fit with a $400 annual gym reimbursement, available to those enrolled in our health insurance plan
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS
- 5-10 years or more of professional experience in event design, environmental design, or a closely related field
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop) and CAD or Vectorworks software
- Strong organizational skills, with the ability to effectively multi-task and prioritize multiple large-scale projects with changing deadlines
- Clear, professional communication skills; ability to articulate design thinking and take client direction
- Proven leadership and collaborative approach; ability to work independently and make decisions under pressure
- Ownership mindset; demonstrated ability to lead projects from concept through completion
- Superior aesthetic judgment, strong point of view, and proven ability to execute sophisticated design work
- Ability to create and present design concepts clearly to clients, teams, and stakeholders; skilled in 3D rendering or illustration software
The ideal candidate has the following qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in design, architecture, or related field (or equivalent professional experience)
- Direct experience designing events or environmental installations; understanding of production process and budget management
- Skilled in 3D rendering or illustration software for presenting design concepts
- Proficiency with floor plans and site plans; advanced AutoCAD or VectorWorks skills
- Demonstrated experience managing production timelines, vendor relationships, and on-site execution
- Experience with interiors, prop styling, set design, or experiential design environments
Van Wyck & Van Wyck and Workshop are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, creed, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical conditions, reproductive health decision-making, marital status, partnership status, familial status, caregiver status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, national origin, ancestry, citizenship or immigration status, age, disability, arrest or conviction record, genetic information or predisposition, military or veteran status, lawful source of income, unemployment status, height or weight, hair texture or protective hairstyles, credit history, or any other status protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.