Design Manager

ZipRecruiter; Dallas (TX); Remote; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A fast-growing restaurant brand, Playa Bowls, seeks a Design Manager to lead the development team in creating innovative designs consistent with brand standards. The role involves managing up to 50 projects annually and collaborating with various departments to drive design success. The ideal candidate will possess strong architectural skills and experience in retail environments, coupled with a passion for enhancing the brand experience.

Benefits

Flexible hybrid-remote work environment

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

401K plan with company match

Paid time off and holidays

Mileage reimbursement

Cell phone stipend

Company credit card for expenses

Qualifications

• Minimum seven years of architectural and construction experience.
• Experience managing development projects in retail/hospitality.
• Proficient in relevant software tools like AutoCAD and Photoshop.

Responsibilities

• Create preliminary designs and site-specific solutions.
• Coordinate with teams to implement store designs.
• Review and analyze due diligence information.

Skills

Project Management

Creative Problem Solving

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

InDesign

SketchUp

Photoshop

Google Suite

Microsoft Office

FranConnect

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 track to add as many as 90 new locations in 2025. Our continued rapid growth offers an exciting opportunity for an individual to help us grow our brand!

WHAT WE OFFER

Playa Bowls offers competitive compensation, eligibility for an annual bonus program, a flexible hybrid-remote work environment, medical, dental, and vision benefits, domestic partner benefits, spouse & children benefits, a 401K plan with company match, Health Savings Account, paid time off, paid holidays, flights/hotels paid for, mileage reimbursement, a cell phone stipend, and a company credit card.

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. The position manages 40-50 projects annually and coordinates with in-house Real Estate, Construction Managers, and Operations teams.

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 fits and schematic designs (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 successfully implement store designs. Assist in coordinating the turnover of new shops and remodel projects to operations and training teams.
• Utilize 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 schedules and supplier pricing for FF&E, millwork, and installations.
• Coordinate updates for PB Prototypical Drawings, Design Manual, and Specifications, ensuring change management is communicated internally and externally.
• Have a creative vision for new and existing shops to create the ‘Playa Bowls Jersey Shore Vibe’.

EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, AND BEHAVIORS

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field
• Minimum seven years of architectural and construction experience, preferably in retail/hospitality environments
• 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 organizational and time management skills
• Understanding of store success drivers and financial aspects
• Creative problem solver with adaptability and resilience
• Ability to develop contingency plans and prioritize tasks effectively
• Able to recognize patterns, analyze data, and react appropriately

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS

• Ability to traverse and inspect all jobsite areas in various weather conditions, including walking, climbing, reaching, bending, crawling, or stretching
• Ability to travel up to 50% of the time
• Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Engage in problem-solving to address delays, emergencies, and weather issues at the jobsite

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, color, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender expression, veteran status, or any other protected status under law.