Exhibition Designer

Exhibition Designer

Temporary Part-Time

Up to 35 hours a week from hire until March 31, 2026. Max 24 hours a week from April 1 to August 31, 2026

ART + AUDIENCE + LEARNING

Located in Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario is one of the largest art museums in North America, attracting approximately one million visitors annually. The AGO Collection of more than 120,000 works of art ranges from cutting-edge contemporary art to significant works by Indigenous and Canadian artists and European masterpieces.

AGO Values: 

• Respect: We foster belonging and appreciate each other.
• Openness: We interact with an open mind and thoughtful engagement.
• Collaboration: We believe in the power of together.
• Accountability: We own our actions and outcomes.

We are currently seeking an Exhibition Designer to join our Exhibitions and Collections team. Under the direction of the Director, Exhibitions, the incumbent will create appropriate and aesthetic designers for exhibitions, collection installations and other related building projects in collaboration with the other members of Exhibition Content Teams.

The rate of pay for this position is $ $45.61 per hour

What is this position responsible for?

1. Reviews works of art to assess aesthetic and technical requirements related to display designs in conjunction with colleagues in other departments. Documents all applicable measures, weights and other pertinent information through drawings, photographs and text to be included in design packages

2. Creates design concepts, construction drawings and installation plans for art and furnishings in temporary exhibitions and permanent collection installations. Provides detailed drawings of all installation components including pedestals, cases, built-in art and media displays, custom lighting, seating and interpretive materials

3. Attends in-person Content and Installation meetings for assigned exhibitions and collaborates with colleagues in Curatorial, Interpretation, Conservation, Building Operations, Protection Services and other departments to develop solutions to design challenges.

4. Prepares presentation materials (floor plans, elevations, Sketch-Up walk-throughs or similar), for Exhibition Content Team review presentations to Senior Managers and Director

5. Sources vendors and services as required in collaboration with the Production Coordinator.

6. Effectively communicates with Carpenters and Production Coordinator throughout the build of in-house millwork

7. Tracks all changes to the physical space and revises documentation to reflect 'as-built' conditions. Records and maintains drawings and specifications of all AGO interior art spaces including plans, elevations, architectural details, lighting plans, electrical requirements, materials and finishes

8. Maintains awareness of current design developments through contact with other professionals and institutions. Researches design best practices and participates in the maintenance of high design and Gallery appearance standards.

What are we looking for?

• Diploma or degree in field of design, fine arts, architecture or a related discipline
• Two to three years' experience in exhibition design and installation of art, or in a related creative sector.
• Knowledge of and expertise in industrial design, interior design or interior architecture
• Knowledge of graphic design
• Knowledge of art conservation principles
• Thorough knowledge of applicable computer software programs, such as CAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch-up, Solidworks.Illustrator
• Excellent visual communication skills; skill in drawing and reading scale drawings
• Skills and ability to conceptualize ideas, represent, and communicate concepts effectively through design and translate them into practice
• Interpersonal and relationship building skills in order to interact well with internal/ external stakeholders and maintain effective linkages with all levels of contacts across the AGO
• Good verbal and written communication skills
• Familiarity with industrial woodworking practices as well as art gallery appropriate materials and fabrication techniques
• Good interpersonal skills

What are the benefits of working at the AGO?

• Discounts to GoodLife Fitness.
• Free tickets to every major exhibit at AGO.
• Discounts to major attractions as a part of the Provincial/City Reciprocal Programs.
• Free admission to the AGO for friends and family, discounts at the gift shop, bistro, and Learning Centre.

If this sounds like the opportunity you are looking for, apply now

Our commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility:

At the AGO, we lead global conversations from Toronto through extraordinary collections, exhibitions, and programs, reflecting the diverse community we serve. Committed to fostering inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility, we embed these values into our strategic plan and ongoing priorities.

To Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and qualifications online at We thank all applicants for their interest in the position; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

The Art Gallery of Ontario is an Equal Opportunity Employer.