Junior Architectural Designer

Who is Taco Bell? 
 
Taco Bell was born and raised in California and has been around since 1962. We went from selling everyone’s favorite Crunchy Tacos on the West Coast to a global brand with 8,500+ restaurants, 350 franchise organizations, that serve 42+ million fans each week around the globe. We’re not only the largest Mexican-inspired quick service brand (QSR) in the world, we’re also part of the biggest restaurant group in the world: Yum! Brands.

Much of our fan love and authentic connection with our communities are rooted in being rebels with a cause. From ensuring we use high quality, sustainable ingredients to elevating restaurant technology in ways that hasn’t been done before… we will continue to be inclusive, bold, challenge the status quo and push industry boundaries.  

We’re a company that celebrates and advocates for different, has bold self-expression, strives for a better future, and brings the fun while we’re at it. We fuel our culture with real people who bring unique experiences. We inspire and enable our teams and the world to Live Más.

At Taco Bell, we’re Cultural Rebels. Want to join in on the passion-fueled fun? Learn more about the career below.

About the Job:

This role is responsible for translating innovative concepts into site-specific design solutions that meet operational, regulatory, and brand standards. The Design Analyst partners cross-functionally with teams across real estate, construction, engineering, operations, marketing and other key departments to develop pipeline and review design documentation for both corporate and franchise locations.
As a multi-disciplinary architectural professional, this individual applies creative problem-solving and technical expertise to support a range of projects—from traditional builds to non-traditional formats—while balancing aggressive timelines, functional requirements, and design excellence.
This role reports to the Equity Lead, Architecture & Brand Standards.

A portfolio or work samples are required. Please include a link to your portfolio on your resume.

The Day-to-Day: 

•    Develop test fit layouts for new builds, demonstrating strong knowledge of site planning, civil requirements, building and ADA codes, while clearly communicating site constraints and opportunities to stakeholders 
•    Create or guide external consultants in developing complex urban test fits and space planning solutions, including multi-story mechanical complexities, and special urban needs. 
•    Support non-traditional development projects (e.g., airports, food courts, inline locations), managing design from initial test fit through permitting 
•    Lead custom design analysis projects from intake through delivery, partnering with Concept Directors and franchisees to align on priorities and ensure timely execution 
•    Review construction and prototype drawings to identify opportunities for value engineering, standardization, and flexibility for jurisdictional modifications, and standardization of MEP and structural systems.
•    Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners to execute design intent accurately and efficiently, while managing multiple projects, balancing deadlines and evolving priorities, and applying industry best practices to continuously improve design processes, tools, and outputs.

Is this you? 

•    Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (Master’s degree preferred) 3+ years of related experience
•    Proficiency in architectural design tools such as AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and SketchUp. 
•    Strong understanding of the design process, including the ability to read and interpret construction drawings Experience with Microsoft Office Suites
•    Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across functions and levels 
•    Ability to work independently in a fast-paced corporate office environment
•    Growth mindset with a strong desire to build expertise and expand capabilities within the organization 
•    Ability to travel occasionally for site visits, meetings, or industry events 

Work-Hard, Play-Hard: 

•    Hybrid work schedule (onsite expectation Tues, Wed, Thurs) and year-round flex day Friday
•    Onsite childcare through Bright Horizons 
•    Onsite dining center and game room (yes, there is a Taco Bell inside the building) 
•    Onsite dry cleaning, laundry services, and carwash
•    Onsite gym with fitness classes and personal trainer sessions 
•    Up to 4 weeks of vacation per year plus holidays and time off for volunteering 
•    Generous parental leave for all new parents and adoption assistance program 
•    401(k) with a 6% matching contribution from Yum! Brands with immediate vesting 
•    Compreh