3D Experiential Designer (Narrative + Spatial Design | SketchUp/Rhino Required)

ABOUT

AKJOHNSTON is an award-winning creative agency designing and producing immersive brand experiences, pop-ups, and large-scale activations. From concept through fabrication.

THE ROLE

We’re looking for a 3D Experiential Designer who can develop ideas and bring them to life as physical environments.

This is not a graphic design role. You’ll be designing spatial layouts, structures, and environments that are grounded in real-world constraints—materials, fabrication, budget, and install.

In addition to design execution, this role requires the ability to shape concepts and articulate the thinking behind them. You should be comfortable building narratives, writing supporting copy, and creating decks that clearly communicate the idea.

You’ll own your work from early concept through execution, working closely with Creative, Production, and Fabrication teams.

WHAT YOU’LL DO

• Design physical environments, installations, and branded spaces from concept through build
• Create 3D models, layouts, and renderings (SketchUp / Rhino)
• Develop concept narratives and experience ideas that translate brand objectives into physical form
• Write clear, concise copy for presentations (headlines, experience descriptions, guest journey)
• Shape the guest journey and overall experience flow, not just the layout
• Collaborate with producers, fabricators, and vendors to ensure ideas are buildable and executed correctly
• Present work internally and to clients, clearly articulating both design and intent
• Support installs and ensure work translates from screen to site

WHAT YOU BRING

• 3–6 years of experience designing physical / spatial environments (experiential, exhibit, retail, scenic, or similar)
• Strong 3D modeling skills (SketchUp and/or Rhino required)
• Experience designing projects that get fabricated and installed
• Ability to generate ideas and think conceptually, not just execute direction
• Strong storytelling instincts — able to translate ideas into clear, compelling narratives
• Comfortable writing tight, on-strategy copy to support design concepts
• Clear communication and a proactive, problem-solving mindset
• Ability to move quickly and manage multiple projects without losing detail

TOOLS

• SketchUp and/or Rhino (required)
• Rendering tools (Enscape, V-Ray, D5, or similar)
• Adobe Creative Suite (supporting)
• Google Workspace / presentation tools

PORTFOLIO REQUIRED

Your portfolio must include physical or build-ready work (3D environments, layouts, installations).

Portfolios should demonstrate both:

• Design execution (what you made)
• Concept thinking (how you think and why)

Be ready to clearly explain your role, process, and how your work was executed.

If your work is primarily graphic, branding, or digital, this role is not a a match for your skill set.

DETAILS

• Hybrid (LA ) with In-person collaboration Tues/Thurs or
• Fully Remote (NYC)
• Contract-to-full-time

Pay: $85,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Flexible spending account
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Los Angeles, CA 90013