Conservation International
Design Lead – Conservation International
This position is based in Arlington‑VA, Seattle‑WA, or Hawaii.
Overview
The Design Lead plays a key role in championing design thinking and human‑centered design across the Center for Oceans and the broader organization. This role sits at the intersection of design, science, and storytelling—requiring both creative vision and methodical execution to strengthen our programs through innovative design approaches.
Mindset & Approach
Human‑centered design leader comfortable guiding people with little to no design experience
Critical thinker who challenges assumptions and invests in uncovering the right questions before solving
Capable of moving between big‑picture thinking and hands‑on execution
Willingness to prototype rapidly, test assumptions, and iterate based on new findings
Balances creative exploration with pragmatic implementation
Works independently and collaborates deeply with diverse stakeholders
Facilitator who hears different perspectives and navigates difficult conversations
Storyteller who adapts complex scientific information into compelling narratives for a broad audience
Responsibilities
Lead creative design processes, including research, ideation, synthesis, and rapid prototyping to enhance collaboration and problem‑solving
Shape and craft compelling narratives that articulate the vision and urgency of initiatives for diverse audiences
Serve as a thought partner to the Director of Blue Horizons to uncover new ways to apply design thinking and human‑centered design
Facilitate design-based strategy workshops that bring together diverse stakeholders for strategic alignment
Foster a culture of experimentation, learning, and innovation within the Center for Oceans and the organization
Look beyond conservation for analogous sources of inspiration, bringing insights from other sectors
Other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Working Conditions
Typical office environment
Flexible schedule to accommodate time differences and field programs
Occasional travel to meet with donors or program staff may be required
Hybrid work structure: some days in office and some remotely
Qualifications Required
4‑6 years of experience applying human‑centered design approaches to complex challenges
Expertise in facilitating design-based workshops and collaborative sessions with diverse stakeholders
Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to develop creative solutions
Exceptional ability to connect and build relationships with colleagues and partners from diverse backgrounds
Experience distilling complex information into compelling narratives for a wide audience
Ability to navigate ambiguity and lead teams through iterative design processes
Proficiency in design and communication tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Miro, Figma)
Strong design sensibility across print, digital, video, audio, and other media
Collaborative problem solver who can work independently and deliver high‑quality results
Preferred
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
Knowledge about ocean conservation is welcome but not required
How to Apply To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.
Equal Employment Opportunity Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.
Additional Information Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type: Full‑time
Job Function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology . #J-18808-Ljbffr
Overview
The Design Lead plays a key role in championing design thinking and human‑centered design across the Center for Oceans and the broader organization. This role sits at the intersection of design, science, and storytelling—requiring both creative vision and methodical execution to strengthen our programs through innovative design approaches.
Mindset & Approach
Human‑centered design leader comfortable guiding people with little to no design experience
Critical thinker who challenges assumptions and invests in uncovering the right questions before solving
Capable of moving between big‑picture thinking and hands‑on execution
Willingness to prototype rapidly, test assumptions, and iterate based on new findings
Balances creative exploration with pragmatic implementation
Works independently and collaborates deeply with diverse stakeholders
Facilitator who hears different perspectives and navigates difficult conversations
Storyteller who adapts complex scientific information into compelling narratives for a broad audience
Responsibilities
Lead creative design processes, including research, ideation, synthesis, and rapid prototyping to enhance collaboration and problem‑solving
Shape and craft compelling narratives that articulate the vision and urgency of initiatives for diverse audiences
Serve as a thought partner to the Director of Blue Horizons to uncover new ways to apply design thinking and human‑centered design
Facilitate design-based strategy workshops that bring together diverse stakeholders for strategic alignment
Foster a culture of experimentation, learning, and innovation within the Center for Oceans and the organization
Look beyond conservation for analogous sources of inspiration, bringing insights from other sectors
Other duties as assigned by the supervisor
Working Conditions
Typical office environment
Flexible schedule to accommodate time differences and field programs
Occasional travel to meet with donors or program staff may be required
Hybrid work structure: some days in office and some remotely
Qualifications Required
4‑6 years of experience applying human‑centered design approaches to complex challenges
Expertise in facilitating design-based workshops and collaborative sessions with diverse stakeholders
Strong problem‑solving skills and the ability to develop creative solutions
Exceptional ability to connect and build relationships with colleagues and partners from diverse backgrounds
Experience distilling complex information into compelling narratives for a wide audience
Ability to navigate ambiguity and lead teams through iterative design processes
Proficiency in design and communication tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite, Miro, Figma)
Strong design sensibility across print, digital, video, audio, and other media
Collaborative problem solver who can work independently and deliver high‑quality results
Preferred
Bachelor’s degree or equivalent combination of education and experience
Knowledge about ocean conservation is welcome but not required
How to Apply To apply for this position, please submit a resume and cover letter.
Equal Employment Opportunity Conservation International is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals. We believe in hiring based on merit and qualifications, ensuring a fair and inclusive hiring process for everyone.
Additional Information Seniority Level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment Type: Full‑time
Job Function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology . #J-18808-Ljbffr