Project Designer

PDR; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, Vision options

401k Plan with Company Contribution

Paid Employee Parking

Mentorships and Coaching

Job summary

PDR, an interior architecture and workplace design firm in Houston, is seeking a Project Designer to create meaningful experiences for clients. The role involves leading design projects, collaborating with a talented team, and mentoring junior staff. Candidates should have 8+ years of experience and a degree in Architecture or Interior Design. PDR offers a supportive culture, competitive benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of related experience in interior architecture or design.
• Pursuit of professional license strongly preferred.
• Sustainable certification (LEED, FitWell, or WELL Building) is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Conceive and develop design concepts and material palettes.
• Coordinate design efforts and client engagement.
• Mentor and collaborate with junior staff.

Skills

Creativity

Strong leadership skills

Strong written and verbal communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or Interior Design

Job description

PDR is an interior architecture and workplace design firm committed to shaping a better world through the power of design. We believe that the workplace is a strategic business tool. It’s more than a location, it’s a catalyst for culture, productivity, and growth. As we continue to design forward‑thinking environments that empower people to thrive, we’re looking for a dynamic, versatile professional to join our team and help amplify our story.

WHY JOIN US?

We are a people‑first firm. At PDR, you’ll be part of a culture that champions innovation, collaboration, and purposeful design. We offer a flexible, supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and celebrates collective success.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

As a Project Designer at PDR, you will join a talented team that works to create thoughtful and meaningful experiences for our clients that allow them to thrive and grow as a business. You should be a fast learner and willing to play a role in all phases of design projects, including, but not limited to – programming, space planning, material selections, specifications, architectural detailing, construction documents, furniture specification and construction administration. To succeed in this role you should demonstrate creativity, reliability, willingness to grow, professionalism and self‑confidence. You will also work with other designers at PDR and be an active contributor to the firm’s design innovation, culture of design and design standards.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Design Concept

• Ability to conceive a design concept and corresponding material palettes that embody the business goals and overall story of the client.
• Develops and coordinates detailed design concepts with the ability to develop program and project‑design criteria.
• Assist in facilitating interior design efforts and project teams including design direction and client engagement.
• Coordinates integration of basic engineering systems into the overall project design.
• Self-check work for accuracy, omissions, legibility, and for document compliance in accordance with PDR project standards and PDR project checklist.
• Participates and collaborates in design reviews, charrettes, and pin‑ups.
• Coordinates effectively with clients, partners, and consultants throughout the schematic and design development phases.

Culture and Career Development

• Collaborate with and mentor junior staff.
• Proactively asks questions and expresses curiosity about the world of design, materials, and products.
• Provide support to tasks within project teams (may focus on individual detailed tasks) and studio activities.
• Keep open communication within team and with designated team leader.
• Attend company happy hours, internal vendor presentations, and external vendor/industry events in order to expand one’s network and learn about new products and materials.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Architecture or Interior Design from a CIDA or NCARB accredited school.
• 8+ years of related experience.
• Pursuit of professional license strongly preferred.
• Sustainable certification (LEED, FitWell, or WELL Building) is a plus.
• Must be a team player and have the ability to collaborate and work well with colleagues.
• Must have strong leadership skills that motivate and inspire teams.
• Must be able to develop and grow skill sets of team members and exhibit a mentoring and coaching mindset.
• Must have strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to effectively convey a design strategy internally with a team and externally with clients.
• Must be self‑motivated, research‑driven, disciplined, and have strong organizational skills.
• Must be creative, seek out original ideas.
• Must be curious, always push oneself and explore what is next.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Health, Dental, Vision, Disability, and Life options
• 401k Plan with Company Contribution
• Company Approved Allowances
• Paid Employee Parking
• Employee Assistance Program and Services
• Competitive Vacation and Holidays
• License and Exam Reimbursement
• Mentorships and Coaching

PDR is committed to being an equal opportunity employer and creates a diverse environment. All employment decisions at PDR are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, family or parental status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. PDR encourages applicants of all ages. PDR is committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing employees with a work environment free of discrimination and harassment.