Job Details

Join to apply for the Design Director role at Industrial Designers Society of America (IDSA).

Geist is a digital brand studio based in Portland, Oregon. We design scalable brand systems that humanize tomorrow's everyday technologies, working with emerging companies across AI, space services, robotics, biotech, media, and consumer products.

We're seeking a Design Director to join us as we thoughtfully scale the studio. In this role, you'll work hands‑on to shape the brands that bring innovative technologies to life, while contributing to the cultural and strategic direction of the studio.

The Role

• Lead the development of brand design systems from concept through execution
• Design digital experiences across product, web, and emerging platforms
• Present concepts and facilitate creative discussions directly with clients
• Provide design direction and leadership to collaborators and clients
• Collaborate on studio-wide initiatives, internal projects, and new business
• Work on one primary project at a time (typical project duration: 2—6 months)
• Contribute to our perspective on emerging technologies and their implications for design

The Ideal Candidate

• Loves design, above all
• Works at a director level, with 7+ years experience agency‑side or in‑house
• Has deep expertise in building brand identity systems and digital experiences
• Can creatively translate brand strategy into clear, systematic expression
• Is committed to achieving craft excellence down to the last detail
• Can work flexibly between structured process and creative improvisation
• Articulates ideas clearly in presentations, client meetings, and written briefs
• Is proficient in Figma
• Has specialized skills in one or more additional areas: motion design, photo direction, illustration, type design, 3D design, creative coding

What We Offer

• Salary range between $130—170K, based on experience
• 401K matching and year‑end profit sharing
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous time‑off policy
• Work in our beautiful studio on N. Mississippi Ave
• Hybrid work model (3 days per week in‑studio preferred)
• Solid hangs. Good energy. No agency‑cult vibes.