Design Manager

ZipRecruiter; Atlanta (GA); Remote; USD 80,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing fast casual restaurant is seeking a Design Manager to join their Development team. This role involves creating site designs that align with company branding while managing multiple projects. The perfect candidate will have at least seven years of experience in architecture or construction and be proficient in design software. This position offers a flexible hybrid-remote environment and the opportunity to contribute to the continued growth of the brand.

Benefits

Flexible Hybrid-Remote Work Environment

401K Plan with company match

Paid Time Off

Paid Holidays

Cell Phone Stipend

Qualifications

• Minimum of seven years of architectural and construction experience in retail/hospitality.
• Experience managing development projects including plans, zoning, design standards, and entitlements.
• Organized with good time management to handle multiple tasks.

Responsibilities

• Create preliminary designs including test fit and schematic design.
• Coordinate with architectural and engineering consultants for construction documents.
• Partner with Construction and Real Estate teams to implement store designs.

Skills

Project Management

Creative Problem Solving

Time Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

InDesign

SketchUp

Photoshop

Job description

Job Description

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Playa Bowls is New Jersey's Original Acai Shop, and our mission is to bring superfruit bowls to the masses using only the freshest, highest quality ingredients while providing a fantastic in-store brand experience. What began as a pair of blenders, a patio table, and a fridge has flourished into a 300+ unit operator and franchisor of the leading fast casual restaurant concept. Playa Bowls added more than 70+ locations in 2024 and is on target to add as many as 90 new locations in 2025. Our continued rapid growth has created the opportunity for an individual who will help us continue to grow our brand!

WHAT WE OFFER

Playa Bowls offers Competitive Compensation, Eligible for the Annual Bonus Program, Flexible Hybrid-Remote Work Environment, Medical, Dental, Vision, Domestic Partner Benefits, Spouse & Children Benefits, 401K Plan with company match, Health Savings Account, Paid Time Off, Paid Holidays, Flight/Hotels paid for, Mileage Reimbursement, Cell Phone Stipend, Company Credit Card provided.

WHO YOU ARE

The Design Manager is a key member of the Development team, reporting directly to the Director of Design. This individual will be responsible for creating site designs that are consistent with the company’s brand standards, while adhering to cost, schedule, and operational requirements. This position manages 40-50 projects annually and coordinates with in-house Real Estate, Construction Managers, and Operations.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

• Open to candidates within our footprint near a major airport
• Fully remote with the ability to travel up to 50% of the time

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create preliminary designs including test fit and schematic design (including RCP) that adhere to company brand and construction standards, developing site-specific design solutions aligned with prototype design intentions.
• Review and analyze due diligence information to develop preliminary site plans. Coordinate with architectural and engineering consultants to ensure construction documents meet Playa Bowls specifications.
• Partner with Construction and Real Estate teams to implement store designs successfully. Assist in coordinating the turnover of new shops and remodel projects to operations and training teams.
• Use the company's project management platform (FranConnect) to ensure alignment among franchisees, A&E vendors, FF&E vendors, and other teams for timely and cost-effective development.
• Maintain FF&E, millwork, and supplier installation schedules and pricing.
• Update PB Prototypical Drawings, Design Manual, and Specifications, communicating changes internally and to vendors and franchisees.
• Have the creative vision to develop the 'Playa Bowls Jersey Shore Vibe' for new and existing shops.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND BEHAVIORS

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field
• Minimum of seven years of architectural and construction experience in retail/hospitality
• Experience managing development projects, including plans, zoning, design standards, and entitlements
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, InDesign, SketchUp, and Photoshop
• Proficient in Google Suite, FranConnect, and Microsoft Office
• Process-oriented with strong execution skills
• Organized with good time management to handle multiple tasks
• Strong financial understanding related to store success
• Creative problem solver with adaptability and resilience
• Ability to develop contingency plans
• Able to prioritize tasks with urgency
• Recognizes patterns and reacts appropriately

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS

• Able to inspect all areas of the job site in all weather conditions, including walking, climbing, reaching, bending, crawling, or stretching.
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time
• Lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Engage in problem-solving to address delays, emergencies, and weather issues
• On call to address issues at the job site.

MISSION

Inspire and support our communities one bowl at a time.

VALUES

Real Deal. Playa Passion. Powerhouse. Big Wave Chaser. Dawn Patrol

Playa Bowls is an equal opportunity employer. All employment decisions are based on merit, competence, performance, and business needs. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, or other protected statuses under law.