Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority
Associate Wayfinding Designer
Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, Boston, Massachusetts, us, 02298
Salary:
$94,942.85 Annually Location :
Transportation Building (10 Park Plaza, Boston 02116) Job Type:
Full-Time Job Number:
25-21215 Department:
MBTA - Office of Stations Area:
309-Building & Station Maintenance Opening Date:
08/11/2025 Closing Date:
8/27/2025 11:59 PM Eastern Licenses / Certifications:
None Required Union Affiliation:
L453 Professional Safety Sensitive:
No; this is not a Safety Sensitive position. On-Call or 24/7:
No; this position is not classified as on-call or 24/7. Essential Classification (Emergency Staff):
No; this position is classified as non-essential (during declared States of Emergency).
At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's Core Values are built around safety, service, equity, sustainability, and culture. Each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed. Job Summary
The Associate Wayfinding Designer will provide design support for the MBTA Wayfinding Program. The focus of this program is the implementation of a user-friendly and ADA-compliant navigation system throughout the MBTA, supporting the broader mission of the Customer Experience and System-Wide Accessibility Departments to create safe, dependable, and inclusive public transportation. Under the direction of the Manager of Graphics & Wayfinding and Senior Wayfinding Designers, the Associate Wayfinding Designer will carry out environmental graphic design standards, permanent and temporary station signage, and related tasks in compliance with the requirements of the Boston Center for Independent Living Lawsuit Settlement.
Duties & Responsibilities • Using proprietary sign design software, produce working sign files, final graphic artwork, and modify sign schedules, under the direction of senior Wayfinding Designers and Manager of Graphics & Wayfinding • Assist senior Wayfinding Designers and Managers of Graphics & Wayfinding with their work with consultants on station wayfinding plans and drawings to create signage contract drawings. • Maintain organized, accurate, and updated graphic and architectural files for the purpose of consistent archival referencing and final production. • Assist with reviewing design contract drawings at each submittal stage. • Assist with reviewing RFIs, construction documents, shop drawings, and sign samples to help ensure signage is correctly executed and implemented. • Assist with ongoing projects in the design and construction phases, as needed. • Review transit maps for accuracy and consistency. • Organize and maintain the office sign sample library. • Assist with research on sign materials and specifications. • Attend site visits to assist with reviewing and documenting existing conditions and paths of travel • Assist with construction phase site visits to review signage implementation conformance and compile punch lists. • Photo-document wayfinding signage at MBTA stations as needed. • Stay current with architectural, environmental, and graphic design technology and trends. • Respond to each inquiry, whether from a customer, vendor, or co-worker in a courteous and professional manner. • Perform related duties and projects as assigned.
Minimum Requirements & Qualifications • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in architecture, environmental graphics, graphic design, or related field. • Minimum of two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the architectural field (Internship or Coop Experience Accepted.) • Experience with reviewing construction documents and shop drawings. • Demonstrated experience providing technical graphic production and architectural support throughout the design and production process. • Proficient in industry-related software including Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, AutoCAD, and Microsoft 365. • Strong technical production, research, analytical, coordination, and communication skills. • Strong time management and organizational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines in a scheduled and methodical manner. • Excellent and effective customer service, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
Preferred Experience and Skills • Previous Architecture or Wayfinding experience • Experience in transit or multi-disciplined infrastructure programs.
Substitutions Include • A High School Diploma or GED with an additional five (5) years of directly related experience substitutes for the Bachelor's degree requirement. • An Associate's degree from an accredited institution in a related field, plus an additional three (3) years of directly related experience, substitutes for the Bachelor's degree requirement • A master's degree in a related subject substitutes for two (2) years of general experience. • A nationally recognized certification, or statewide/professional certification in a related field, substitutes for one year of experience. Job Conditions: Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English. Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, except if participating in an approved high school internship / co-op program. Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role. Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences. Ability to work effectively, independently, and as part of a diverse workforce team (or supervise, if required). Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers. Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies. Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection). Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings. Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service. Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op. Additionally, interns / co-ops must have valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting their positions and throughout the duration of their program. Disclaimers and Definitions: General Disclaimer:
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. Application Completion:
It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current).
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Attachments
do not
substitute for application fields. Recruitment team
does not
have access to existing employee data / history. Application Deadlines:
Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established. Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements. Work Eligibility:
Although the MBTA is an all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA, but a valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number are required prior to starting work. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Interviews:
Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email. Safety Sensitive Positions:
Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing. On-call or 24/7 Positions:
Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority. Essential / Emergency Staff:
During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management. ADA Accommodations:
The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
The MBTA is an For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit Intern / Co-Op / Fellow Benefits:
Employees taking part in an internship, co-op, or fellowship at the MBTA are eligible to receive accrued paid sick leave as well as a monthly transportation pass, based on city from which the employee commutes to work, at no cost. However, no additional benefits are currently offered for interns, co-ops, or fellows.
Employment Benefits at the MBTA
Full-Time Employees:
The MBTA offers comprehensive benefits packages to full-time employees. Types of benefits offered at the MBTA are subject to the union affiliation / Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) of the position to which you apply. Benefits that may apply to your position include the following:
Insurance: Health, Dental, Vision, Life (basic and supplemental), and Long-Term Disability Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, Personal Days, Sick Leave, and Holidays Retirement: Pension or deferred compensation 401(a), plus MBTA contributions Complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) Tuition Reimbursement (up to $10,000 per year) Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for student loans Commuter Choice Parking Program: Pre-tax benefits for parking Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax benefits for healthcare-related expenses Discounted tickets for concerts, movies, travel / vacation, etc. via TicketsAtWork.com Shopping discounts via GovX.com Verizon and AT&T service discounts And more...
Internships:
Internship positions are not eligible for most MBTA Benefits. However, paid sick time may be incurred. Each intern also receives a complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) to use throughout the duration of their internship. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email internships@mbta.com for more information.
Disclaimer:
The above information is meant to be a general overview of the benefit programs offered by the MBTA, which may or may not apply to a specific position. This summary is not a contract andis not meant to change the provisions of union contracts or Authority policies and does not establish a binding practice. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email hrstaffing@mbta.com for more information.
The MBTA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer 01
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status)?
Yes No
02
Do you have experience with reviewing construction documents and shop drawings?
Yes No
03
Do you have demonstrated experience providing technical graphic production and architectural support throughout the design and production process?
Yes No
Required Question
$94,942.85 Annually Location :
Transportation Building (10 Park Plaza, Boston 02116) Job Type:
Full-Time Job Number:
25-21215 Department:
MBTA - Office of Stations Area:
309-Building & Station Maintenance Opening Date:
08/11/2025 Closing Date:
8/27/2025 11:59 PM Eastern Licenses / Certifications:
None Required Union Affiliation:
L453 Professional Safety Sensitive:
No; this is not a Safety Sensitive position. On-Call or 24/7:
No; this position is not classified as on-call or 24/7. Essential Classification (Emergency Staff):
No; this position is classified as non-essential (during declared States of Emergency).
At the MBTA, we envision a thriving region enabled by a best-in-class transit system. Our mission is to serve the public by providing safe, reliable, and accessible transportation. MBTA's Core Values are built around safety, service, equity, sustainability, and culture. Each employee that works for the MBTA performs their roles based on our vision, mission, and values. This includes attendance, participation, and contribution in local safety committee meetings as needed. Job Summary
The Associate Wayfinding Designer will provide design support for the MBTA Wayfinding Program. The focus of this program is the implementation of a user-friendly and ADA-compliant navigation system throughout the MBTA, supporting the broader mission of the Customer Experience and System-Wide Accessibility Departments to create safe, dependable, and inclusive public transportation. Under the direction of the Manager of Graphics & Wayfinding and Senior Wayfinding Designers, the Associate Wayfinding Designer will carry out environmental graphic design standards, permanent and temporary station signage, and related tasks in compliance with the requirements of the Boston Center for Independent Living Lawsuit Settlement.
Duties & Responsibilities • Using proprietary sign design software, produce working sign files, final graphic artwork, and modify sign schedules, under the direction of senior Wayfinding Designers and Manager of Graphics & Wayfinding • Assist senior Wayfinding Designers and Managers of Graphics & Wayfinding with their work with consultants on station wayfinding plans and drawings to create signage contract drawings. • Maintain organized, accurate, and updated graphic and architectural files for the purpose of consistent archival referencing and final production. • Assist with reviewing design contract drawings at each submittal stage. • Assist with reviewing RFIs, construction documents, shop drawings, and sign samples to help ensure signage is correctly executed and implemented. • Assist with ongoing projects in the design and construction phases, as needed. • Review transit maps for accuracy and consistency. • Organize and maintain the office sign sample library. • Assist with research on sign materials and specifications. • Attend site visits to assist with reviewing and documenting existing conditions and paths of travel • Assist with construction phase site visits to review signage implementation conformance and compile punch lists. • Photo-document wayfinding signage at MBTA stations as needed. • Stay current with architectural, environmental, and graphic design technology and trends. • Respond to each inquiry, whether from a customer, vendor, or co-worker in a courteous and professional manner. • Perform related duties and projects as assigned.
Minimum Requirements & Qualifications • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in architecture, environmental graphics, graphic design, or related field. • Minimum of two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the architectural field (Internship or Coop Experience Accepted.) • Experience with reviewing construction documents and shop drawings. • Demonstrated experience providing technical graphic production and architectural support throughout the design and production process. • Proficient in industry-related software including Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, AutoCAD, and Microsoft 365. • Strong technical production, research, analytical, coordination, and communication skills. • Strong time management and organizational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines in a scheduled and methodical manner. • Excellent and effective customer service, communication, and conflict resolution skills.
Preferred Experience and Skills • Previous Architecture or Wayfinding experience • Experience in transit or multi-disciplined infrastructure programs.
Substitutions Include • A High School Diploma or GED with an additional five (5) years of directly related experience substitutes for the Bachelor's degree requirement. • An Associate's degree from an accredited institution in a related field, plus an additional three (3) years of directly related experience, substitutes for the Bachelor's degree requirement • A master's degree in a related subject substitutes for two (2) years of general experience. • A nationally recognized certification, or statewide/professional certification in a related field, substitutes for one year of experience. Job Conditions: Ability to effectively read, comprehend, communicate, and respond to instructions, orders, signs, notices, inquiries, etc. in English. Be at least eighteen (18) years of age, except if participating in an approved high school internship / co-op program. Ability to commute to assigned work locations in the Boston, MA metro area, as required by the role. Ability to provide internal and external customers with courteous and professional experiences. Ability to work effectively, independently, and as part of a diverse workforce team (or supervise, if required). Ability to uphold the rights and interests of the MBTA while building and maintaining effective relationships with employees and co-workers. Ability to adhere to rules, regulations, collective bargaining agreements (if applicable), and policies of the MBTA, including the EEO, anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, and anti-retaliation policies. Have a satisfactory work record for the two (2) years immediately prior to the closing date of this posting (unless if current student or recent graduate), including overall employment, job performance, discipline, and safety records (infractions and/or offenses occurring after the closing of the posting and before the filling of a vacancy may preclude a candidate from consideration for selection). Ability to pass a Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) check, comprehensive background screening, and / or medical Clinic screening, potentially including a physical examination and drug and alcohol screenings. Ability to work all shifts and / or locations assigned, directed, or necessary for this position, including (for some transit / operations roles) up to twenty-four (24) hours per day, seven (7) days per week as necessary to accommodate severe weather conditions, emergencies, or any other circumstances that may potentially impact service or the safety of service. Intern / co-op staff must be enrolled full or part-time in an accredited educational program and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.5 for the entire duration of the internship / co-op. Additionally, interns / co-ops must have valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number prior to starting their positions and throughout the duration of their program. Disclaimers and Definitions: General Disclaimer:
The statements contained in this job description are intended to describe a summary, general nature, and complexity of typical job functions and do not represent an exhaustive list of all duties, tasks, and responsibilities required of staff assigned to this position. Application Completion:
It is each applicant's responsibility to ensure application details are entered completely and correctly, including updated work and education histories (past and current).
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Attachments
do not
substitute for application fields. Recruitment team
does not
have access to existing employee data / history. Application Deadlines:
Applicants should apply as soon as possible, as the MBTA may stop considering applicants after a sufficiently large applicant pool is established. Work Environment:
The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here-in are representative of those an employee may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations can be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. See job description for role-specific requirements. Work Eligibility:
Although the MBTA is an all employees must be legally authorized to work in the United States for any employer and on an unrestricted basis (the MBTA does not sponsor non-US citizens). However, if you have an unrestricted work authorization, or sponsored by a separate entity, you are welcome to apply for open positions. International students taking part in CPT / STEM / OPT programs through a university are eligible for internships and co-ops with the MBTA, but a valid work authorization and U.S. Social Security Number are required prior to starting work. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to complete a Form I-9 to verify their identity and eligibility to work in the U.S. Interviews:
Candidates should ensure they arrive on time, are prepared, can remain for the duration, and if remote, are in a quiet place without distraction, for the interview. Candidates who do not attend their interview without advance authorization, including an email confirmation of a rescheduled time/date from Human Resources, will be considered a no-show and disqualified from consideration for the position. Related to rescheduling, on a one-time basis, and due to something emergent, you may be allowed to reschedule the interview. In addition, Human Resources may require documentation supporting the request. However, should you need to reschedule, you will need to contact your Recruiter directly by email. Safety Sensitive Positions:
Employees working in this classification will be subject to periodic physical examinations plus random drug and alcohol testing. On-call or 24/7 Positions:
Employees working in this classification must be available to respond to page / text / call and report to work as determined by assigned department or the Authority. Essential / Emergency Staff:
During declared "states of emergency," employees working in this classification are required to report to work for their assigned work hours or as directed by management. ADA Accommodations:
The MBTA makes reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities. If you require an accommodation during this process, please contact the MBTA's ADA Unit at 617-222-5751 or Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:
The MBTA is an For terms, descriptions, and definitions related to diversity, equity, inclusion, veteran status, and immediate family members that you may find on the application form, please visit Intern / Co-Op / Fellow Benefits:
Employees taking part in an internship, co-op, or fellowship at the MBTA are eligible to receive accrued paid sick leave as well as a monthly transportation pass, based on city from which the employee commutes to work, at no cost. However, no additional benefits are currently offered for interns, co-ops, or fellows.
Employment Benefits at the MBTA
Full-Time Employees:
The MBTA offers comprehensive benefits packages to full-time employees. Types of benefits offered at the MBTA are subject to the union affiliation / Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) of the position to which you apply. Benefits that may apply to your position include the following:
Insurance: Health, Dental, Vision, Life (basic and supplemental), and Long-Term Disability Paid Time Off (PTO): Vacation, Personal Days, Sick Leave, and Holidays Retirement: Pension or deferred compensation 401(a), plus MBTA contributions Complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) Tuition Reimbursement (up to $10,000 per year) Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) for student loans Commuter Choice Parking Program: Pre-tax benefits for parking Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax benefits for healthcare-related expenses Discounted tickets for concerts, movies, travel / vacation, etc. via TicketsAtWork.com Shopping discounts via GovX.com Verizon and AT&T service discounts And more...
Internships:
Internship positions are not eligible for most MBTA Benefits. However, paid sick time may be incurred. Each intern also receives a complimentary pass for travel on the MBTA transit system (bus, train, ferry, and Commuter Rail) to use throughout the duration of their internship. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email internships@mbta.com for more information.
Disclaimer:
The above information is meant to be a general overview of the benefit programs offered by the MBTA, which may or may not apply to a specific position. This summary is not a contract andis not meant to change the provisions of union contracts or Authority policies and does not establish a binding practice. Please contact the assigned Recruiter directly or email hrstaffing@mbta.com for more information.
The MBTA is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer 01
Will you now or in the future require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status)?
Yes No
02
Do you have experience with reviewing construction documents and shop drawings?
Yes No
03
Do you have demonstrated experience providing technical graphic production and architectural support throughout the design and production process?
Yes No
Required Question