Associate Designer, Special Projects & Design Standards

The Associate Designer is responsible for developing and delivering creative design packages, maintaining design brand standards, and coordinating with vendors to ensure quality and compliance. This role supports strategic initiatives, cost-reduction efforts, and cross-functional collaboration to achieve operational and aesthetic goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Design New Restaurant, Remodel & Refresh Concepts 
  • Lead & Design work related to new restaurant and remodel initiatives
  • Reviews Design and Layout for remodels and new restaurants for corporate and franchise.
  • Manage & document design process and workstreams cross functionally
• Spec Book & Standards Documents
  • Create and update design decks, signage, decor, including specifications.
  • Update spec books with new finish guidelines, detail design drawings, and design playbooks for NRO and refresh/remodel programs.
• Vendor Management
  • Source and manage vendors for art, signage, furniture, and finishes.
  • Maintain vendor contacts and ensure supply of materials, providing for vetting and sourcing alternate finishes.
• Strategic Initiatives
  • Present design updates and strategies to senior leaders
  • Support cost-reduction programs by identifying alternative suppliers and running RFP vendor processes.
  • Contribute to branding and visual strategies.
• Collaboration
  • Work closely with Construction, Operations, and Marketing teams to align design deliverables with business objectives.
  • Participate in department summits, spec book reviews, and planning sessions.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (preferred), or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in commercial or restaurant design.
• Proficiency in design software (SketchUp, PowerPoint, AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Creative Suite), Monday.com
• Strong understanding of ADA compliance and brand standards.
• Strong project management skills.
• Excellent communication, collaboration across multiple departments and vendor management skills.

Core Competencies

• Design Accuracy: Ability to produce detailed, brand-compliant design packages.
• Desing Collaboration: Builds strong relationships across departments and with external partners.
• Creative Design Problem-Solving: Resolves conceptual design and material challenges effectively.
• Attention to Design Detail: Maintains precision in layouts, specs, and documentation.

Adaptability: Responds to changing priorities and project timelines.