Associate Designer (Special Projects, Design Standards)

About the Job:

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.

The Day-to-Day:

• 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.

Is This You?

• 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.

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 employee lounge

• Onsite dry cleaning, laundry services, 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 

• Comprehensive medical & dental including prescription drug benefits and 100% preventive care

• Discounts, free food, swag and… honestly, too many

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