Production Designer

About the role

The Production Designer prepares detailed layouts, scaled drawings, and digital documentation based on direction from the Senior Designer and Principal Designer when applicable. This role focuses on accuracy, file organization, and production clarity. Production Designers are expected to work within allocated design hours and proactively communicate documentation questions or conflicts before work moves into studio fabrication.

Responsibilities

• Prepare scaled drawings, elevations, and layout documents based on approved designs.
• Develop production-ready digital files for printing, projection, cutting, or studio transfer.
• Refine, vectorize, and texture hand-drawn or conceptual artwork into print-ready and cutter-ready formats.
• Create spatial and colorized renderings using photography, architectural drawings, and 3D models to visualize design intent.
• Organize and maintain digital project folders and file naming standards.
• Cook up closely with Senior Designers to ensure documentation reflects approved intent.
• Incorporate redlines and revisions accurately and efficiently.
• Make and verify measurements and proportions to produce accurate layouts, “as-builts,” and full-scale templates.
• Aid in preparation of submittal packages, presentation materials, and client-facing deliverables.
• Produce digital artwork on various substrates using studio equipment and ensure alignment with approved samples.
• Ensure accurate color matching between production materials, swatches, and painted samples.
• Track assigned hours against project allocations and communicate concerns early.
• Support internal quality control by reviewing drawings for accuracy and completeness.
• Collaborate with studio artists to clarify layout dimensions, sequencing, and transfer methods.
• Aid in defining production workflows, sequencing phases of work, and organizing deliverables for efficient execution.
• Prepare clear installation documentation and instructions for field teams.
• Participate in project kickoff and internal coordination meetings when assigned.
• Communicate with design teams, architects, and project stakeholders to clarify requirements and resolve documentation gaps.

Qualifications & Requirements

• 3+ years of experience in design documentation, scenic production, architectural drafting, or related disciplines.
• Formal training in architecture, fine arts, preservation, or related discipline (BA / BFA / BArch preferred).
• Strong proficiency in digital drawing and layout software (Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator preferred).
• High attention to detail and strong file organization skills.
• Ability to interpret conceptual direction and translate it into precise documentation.
• Understanding of scale, proportion, and decorative systems within architectural contexts.
• Strong understanding of color theory and ability to evaluate subtle color differences.
• Familiarity with fabrication methods, materials, and construction techniques.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks while maintaining accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to ask clarifying questions.
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Passion for architecture, historic restoration, and decorative arts.
• Must be able to work in-person within the studio environment.

Preferred

• Historic restoration experience
• Ability to draw or paint
• Familiarity with classical architecture and ornamental vocabulary