Associate, Restaurant Design

Position Purpose

The Design Associate will support the Design & Construction Teams for both company and franchise remodel projects. The role requires strong organizational skills, technical design knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple timelines simultaneously.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Primary point of contact for company and franchise remodels to execute EPL Design Standards across architectural, civil/site design, kitchen layout, and interior design disciplines.
• Support development goals by maintaining the remodel pipelines in Smartsheet and driving schedules.
• Maintain and update FF&E standards and documentation for system-wide distribution.
• Conduct product and construction method research to support design solutions.
• Manage RFP coordination and formal project communications.
• Review and process construction administration documents.
• Prepare design-related presentation materials for consultants, franchisees, and executive leadership.
• Attend site visits, scope walks, punch walks, conferences, and other development-related functions as needed.

Qualifications

• Education, Experience: Professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field preferred. 3+ years of experience in restaurant, hospitality, or retail design, and construction administration.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Proficiency in CAD, Bluebeam Revu, Smartsheet, Microsoft Excel, and PowerPoint. Working knowledge of IBC, Health Code, and ADA compliance. Familiarity with remodel, conversion/TI, and ground-up construction processes. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to independently manage multiple projects and deadlines. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude. Strong communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills; ability to speak, write, and comprehend basic English. Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.