Explore how your federal experience as a Exhibits Making/Modeling (GS-4715) translates into civilian opportunities — including salary comparisons, transferable skills, certifications, and top employers.
Understand how your GS level aligns with common corporate roles, responsibilities, and compensation. This helps frame your experience in terms that civilian employers recognize.
| GS Level Group | Corporate Titles | Responsibilities | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | Junior Model Maker, Exhibit Designer Trainee, Entry-Level Fabricator, Mock-up Specialist | Assist in the production of exhibit models and displays, using basic techniques and tools. Follow established guidelines to create preliminary prototypes and assist senior staff with design modifications. | $35,000 - $45,000 |
| 5-7 | Model Maker, Exhibit Designer, Production Assistant, Fabrication Specialist | Design and construct models and replicas for exhibits. Collaborate with project teams to create detailed specifications and refine designs based on user feedback and testing results. | $50,000 - $70,000 |
| 8-9 | Senior Exhibit Designer, Lead Model Maker, Project Coordinator for Exhibits, Exhibit Production Manager | Oversee the creation of complex exhibit models and displays, ensuring adherence to design standards and project timelines. Develop project plans and coordinate with cross-functional teams to enhance exhibit effectiveness. | $70,000 - $90,000 |
| 10-11 | Exhibit Production Supervisor, Senior Model Fabrication Specialist, Exhibit Program Manager, Design Lead for Exhibits | Manage exhibit production staff and workflows, implementing best practices in modeling techniques. Serve as a liaison between design, engineering, and installation teams to ensure project success and client satisfaction. | $90,000 - $120,000 |
| 12-13 | Department Head of Exhibits, Creative Director for Exhibits, Senior Project Manager for Exhibit Design, Exhibit Operations Director | Strategically direct all facets of exhibit design and implementation, including budget management and resource allocation. Collaborate with senior management to define overall exhibit strategy and ensure alignment with organizational goals. | $120,000 - $160,000 |
| 14-15 | Executive Director of Exhibit Development, Senior Vice President of Exhibit Design, Chief Exhibit Strategist, Global Head of Exhibit Operations | Lead the vision and strategic direction of the organization's exhibit portfolio, driving innovation and effectiveness in exhibit delivery. Engage with key stakeholders to foster partnerships and enhance brand recognition through high-quality exhibits. | $160,000 - $220,000 |
| SES | Senior Executive for Exhibits and Design Innovation, Vice President of Exhibit Strategy, Chief Operating Officer of Exhibit Services, Executive Vice President for Creative Direction | Drive transformative exhibit strategies across the organization while ensuring quality and efficiency. Establish and promote organizational objectives while collaborating with the board and executive team to achieve long-term success. | $220,000 - $300,000 |
Highlight the skills you've developed in federal service that directly apply to private sector roles. These core strengths help you stand out in interviews and on resumes.
Explore certifications and academic paths that enhance your value in the civilian job market. These credentials can bridge gaps and validate your expertise to employers.
Certified Exhibit Designer (CED)
The Certified Exhibit Designer (CED) credential demonstrates expertise in designing displays and exhibits, which is crucial for the GS-4715 job series. Having this certification can provide an advantage in the civilian marketplace by illustrating proficiency in creative visualization, project management, and effective communication with clients.
Project Management Professional (PMP)
The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification signifies a strong understanding of project management principles, which are vital in overseeing exhibit projects from conception to completion. In the civilian sector, this credential can enhance an individual's resume by showcasing leadership abilities and the capacity to deliver projects efficiently and on schedule.
Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Photoshop
Earning an Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) in Photoshop certification indicates a high level of proficiency in graphic design software, which is essential for creating appealing exhibit visuals. This expertise is advantageous in civilian roles where strong design skills are required to effectively communicate ideas and concepts through visual media.
Associate of Arts in Graphic Design
An Associate of Arts in Graphic Design provides foundational knowledge in design principles, color theory, and digital media, equipping GS-4715 professionals with essential skills for exhibit creation. In the civilian job market, this degree can help individuals stand out by demonstrating a formal education in design, making them more competitive candidates.
3D Visualization and Animation Certificate
Completing a 3D Visualization and Animation Certificate equips individuals with advanced skills in 3D modeling and rendering, important for creating immersive exhibit experiences. This specialized training can differentiate candidates in the civilian sector where employers seek innovative and engaging exhibit solutions.
LEED Green Associate
The LEED Green Associate certification signifies a commitment to sustainability, an increasingly important factor in exhibit design and construction. This credential can provide a competitive edge in civilian jobs that prioritize environmentally responsible practices and materials in their projects.
See which companies and industries commonly hire professionals with your background. Use this insight to focus your job search and tailor your applications.
Get practical strategies to navigate the shift from federal to private sector work. Learn how to present your experience and avoid common transition pitfalls.
Stay informed on how your field is evolving and where opportunities are growing. These trends can guide your next steps and help you future-proof your career.
Transitioning from a federal GS-4715 Exhibits Making/Modeling role to private sector employment can be a transformative experience, and it’s essential to approach this change with a positive and proactive mindset. Here are some comprehensive tips to guide you through this transition:
Embrace Change: Moving from a structured federal environment to the private sector can feel daunting. Embrace the flexibility and variability of the private sector. Understand that while the job landscape may be different, it can also present numerous opportunities for creativity and innovation.
Value Your Experience: Your federal experience is valuable and brings unique strengths to the table. Recognize how your skills in exhibits making and modeling can be relevant and beneficial in the private sector. This confidence will come across in your applications and interviews.
Be Open to Learning: The private sector can involve different methodologies, technologies, and work cultures. Be open to learning new skills—this can include technical skills, project management principles, or even soft skills like teamwork and communication in a corporate context.
Translate Your Experience: Federal job titles and descriptions can be jargon-heavy. Use clear, concise language to translate your skills into private sector terminology. For example, instead of saying "Exhibits Making", you could say "Product Design and Development".
Focus on Achievements: Highlight your accomplishments in quantifiable terms. For instance, instead of stating your responsibilities, showcase the impact of your work: "Redesigned exhibit models, resulting in a 30% increase in visitor engagement."
Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume for each job application. Carefully read the job description for the private sector role you’re applying for and incorporate relevant keywords and skills that align with what potential employers are seeking.
Use a Functional Format if Necessary: If you feel your experience does not line up neatly with your desired role, consider a functional resume format that emphasizes skills over chronological experience. This can help convey your qualifications more effectively.
Practice Your Pitch: Prepare a succinct personal pitch that communicates who you are, your background in federal service, and how it relates to the role you are applying for.
Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Expect behavioral interview questions that assess how you've handled past challenges. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and clearly convey the situation you faced, the actions you took, and the results of those actions.
Show Cultural Awareness: Understand that corporate culture can differ significantly from federal environments. Demonstrate awareness of this change and showcase your adaptability in discussions about work styles and team dynamics.
Ask Insightful Questions: At the end of the interview, ask thoughtful questions that show your interest in the company and role. This could include inquiries about team dynamics, project management practices, or company culture.
Utilize LinkedIn: Create a strong LinkedIn profile highlighting your federal experience and skills relevant to your desired private sector role. Join relevant industry groups and engage with content related to your field.
Reconnect and Expand Your Network: Reach out to former colleagues, mentors, and friends who are currently in the private sector. Request informational interviews to learn about their experiences and gather advice about the transition.
Attend Industry Events: Participate in networking events, trade shows, and conferences related to your field. These platforms can provide valuable connections and insights into hiring trends in your desired industry.
Engage in Professional Associations: Join associations related to your field, such as those focusing on design, modeling, or exhibit planning. These organizations often provide networking opportunities, training, and job boards.
Focus on Transferable Skills: Identify skills in your federal experience that are transferable to the private sector, such as project management, stakeholder engagement, creative problem-solving, and communication. Highlight these skills in resumes and during interviews.
Relate Your Experience to the Job Description: When reviewing job descriptions, look for ways your federal roles have provided you experience relevant to the listed responsibilities. If the job requires "creativity in design", emphasize your experience in creating innovative displays.
Avoid Technical Jargon: While your federal experience may involve specific technical terminology, avoid using jargon in your applications and discussions. Instead, express your expertise in straightforward terms that resonate with private sector audiences.
Transitioning to the private sector is an exciting opportunity to leverage your unique strengths and experiences in a new environment. Embrace the change with confidence, knowing that your background in federal service has equipped you with valuable skills. By approaching your job search with a clear strategy—focusing on resume optimization, effective networking, and thorough preparation—you can successfully navigate this transition and find a fulfilling private sector position.