Design Director

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.