The Lead Interior Designer is responsible for the management of assigned project designs from the initial client interview to completion of the design, specifications, and permit submittal. Position is responsible for producing both preliminary and working design documents for the production handoff package. The position works in close coordination with other design staff, Estimator, and Production.
Essential Functions
- Assist Sales/Estimator in the initial client meeting where we discuss their project, what they are looking for in a design-builder, and walk them through our presentation.
- Prepare Design Agreements for new jobs, and have office manager send to client
- Once in a design agreement, prepare the design schedule in BuilderTrend
- Responsible for all stages of assigned projects including preliminary design, design development and handoff to production staff.
- Research and specify items and materials as necessary to meet the varying needs of each unique project.
- Conduct initial client interviews and document client’s design goals, hopes and dreams and develop the scope of work and import before photos for new projects.
- Ensure that the home is accurately measured and photographed for documentation of existing conditions. Use Canva.io on the company iPhone/iPad to produce as built measurements.
- Produce or delegate the as-built drawings.
- Create imaginative and practical design solutions, and prepare floor plans (sketching and/or CAD) and elevation drawings for preliminary client meeting.
- Review designs with Estimator for construction feasibility and cost implications before presenting preliminary drawings.
- On projects that require engineering and/or building permits, coordinate with our outside drafting company for the architectural permit set of plans.
- Refine and hone the preliminary plan drawings and give to the Estimator for obtaining a preliminary estimate.
- Perform or delegate the design of the cabinet layouts and elevations and review with client. Upon cabinet design completion review layout designs to check for completeness of order. Process orders, document ordering and keep production staff informed of timelines.
- Perform or delegate the development of the working drawings including electrical and mechanical plans, window, door, and other finish material schedules.
- Work with the client on our design center to select finishes, fixtures, materials, appliances and other miscellaneous items unique to each job and assist the client in shopping at showrooms if necessary for assigned projects as well as other clients.
- Create 3D architectural features accurately representing existing and new design plans and create color renderings of designs as necessary. Perform or assist 3D animation walkthroughs of design plans with client and make changes as requested by client.
- Create or delegate the specifications with oversight from Sales/Estimator. Implement drawing changes and update specifications as necessary.
- Delegate the entry of all selections into BuilderTrend (project management software) for client approval before ordering
- Coordinate with the office manager or design assistant to make sure all the products are ordered
- Prepare contract drawings for Sales/Estimator to finalize the Construction agreement.
- Work with Production and/or visit jobs sites when necessary to resolve design issues as required.
- Maintain current knowledge of construction codes and implement changes as required.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of design trends, cabinetry trends, building practices and technical applications including design software.
- Oversee the maintenance the Design Center sample and keep up to date with new materials
- Participate in regular design review meetings.
- Use time tracker in Chief Architect and/or Buildertrend
- Conduct yourself in a professional, positive, and courteous manner at all times.
- Participate in any company events, including company meetings, training sessions, and company events. • Establish good working relationship with other team members.
- Foster positive communications and relationships with clients, team members, vendors/subs and.
- Keep up to date on industry trends and developments.
- Adhere to company policies and procedures.
- Actively participate in meetings as requested.
- Provide phone back up and participate as a member of the team.
- Other duties as assigned.
Qualifications
- Four-year degree in design or similar area of study is highly desired. Some coursework and/or years of experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Desire (5) years’ experience designing residential remodeling, creating floor plans and drawing elevations and perspectives.
- Proficient in Chief Architect preferred.
- Creative imagination and practical understanding of construction.
- Hand drawing skills and good “design sense” for space planning and finishes selections.
- Good communication skills, personable demeanor and sense of humor.
- Knowledge of, Microsoft Word and Excel. Powerpoint would be a plus.
- Strong knowledge of appropriate English, spelling, grammar, punctuation and word usage and ability to communicate concepts, thoughts and ideas both written and orally to others.
- Ability to establish and maintain collaborative, effective working relationships with managers, peers, clients and other employees.
- Ability to work within deadlines.
- Proven track record working with all levels of the organization as well as clients.
- Maintain a valid driver’s license and state required insurance.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
- Ability to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner.
- Frequent standing, walking and sitting.
- Must be able to stoop, kneel, crouch and crawl.
- Frequent lifting and carrying up to 10 pounds. • Occasional lifting and carrying up to 35 pounds.
- Must be able to work at computer or desk area for extended periods of time.
- Must be able to use a computer and see color.
- Ability to travel to job sites as needed.