Senior Technical Design Director, Maven

At Maven, we humanize brands to move people. As one of the largest independent brand experience companies in the country, we solve problems by putting people at the center and creating memorable moments that drive human and business impact. Our business model starts and ends with employee happiness. Fueled by diverse passions, unique personalities, and the hunger for the most complex challenges, Maven people unleash a culture that creates the best possible brand experiences for the world and the most fulfilling team experiences for each other.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Technical Design Director to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of signage at Maven—the industry’s go-to partner for large-scale, complex signage programs. Our work transforms healthcare networks, financial institutions, corporate campuses, and retail environments into spaces where brands come to life and people find their way with ease.

As a Senior Technical Design Director, you will lead the charge in turning bold concepts into built reality. You’ll define the technical standards that guide our industry-leading programs, mentor and grow a team of talented designers, and collaborate with vendor partners to deliver signage that is both beautiful and buildable. This is a hands-on leadership role where your expertise will influence every stage of the process—from design control documents and prototypes to pricing strategy and final installation. If you are a technical design expert who thrives on solving complex challenges, elevating standards, and coaching teams to do their best work, this is an opportunity to make a visible impact on some of the most ambitious signage programs in the country.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Program Directors as a key technical leader within Maven, ensuring design excellence from concept through implementation.
• Lead the development of Sign Families, Design Intent, and Design Control Documents that define systems, standards, and specifications.
• Set and uphold standards for drawings, documentation, and technical deliverables—ensuring clarity, accuracy, quality, and consistency across all projects.
• Provide oversight and guidance to Technical Designers, reviewing work to ensure alignment with design intent and best practices.
• Recommend materials, finishes, and fabrication methods that balance aesthetics, performance, cost, and constructability.
• Lead the prototype and first article review process with vendor partners, including evaluation of samples, coordination with internal teams, and verification of technical specifications.
• Foster collaboration with suppliers, vendors, and consultants to align technical execution with project goals.
• Coordinate pricing estimates and organize bid documents in collaboration with Program Directors and vendors, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely delivery.
• Work across multiple projects, providing technical leadership, oversight, and support to ensure best practices are applied program-wide.
• Advance Maven’s technical capabilities by staying ahead of trends in signage design, manufacturing, and technology.
• Manage a team of 3-4 direct reports, providing day-to-day guidance, performance feedback, and support for professional growth.
• Actively coach, mentor, and develop team members—cultivating their skills, providing constructive feedback, building accountability and confidence, preparing future leaders, and recognizing achievements.
• Promote strong internal collaboration and communication, contributing to a positive and high-performing team culture.
• Support and champion Maven’s values, vision, and commitment to delivering impactful, future-ready signage solutions.

Requirements

• 12+ years of experience in technical design, ideally within an architectural, engineering, or signage-focused firm.
• Degree or professional background in architecture, industrial design, or structural/engineering disciplines strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in design and documentation tools, including AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp.
• Deep knowledge of signage manufacturing, including fabrication techniques, materials, finishes, lighting, and cost drivers.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey technical concepts to internal teams, vendors, and clients.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of managing multiple projects independently.
• Willingness to travel up to 20%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience leading cross-functional teams and driving collaboration across design, program management, and vendor partners.
• Background in vendor management, pricing strategy, and bid coordination.
• Proven ability to set and raise standards for design documentation, quality, and technical execution.
• Thought leadership or recognized expertise within the signage, architectural, or environmental design industry.
• Track record of coaching and developing design teams, building accountability, and preparing future leaders.

Pay

Salary: $150,000 - $190,000. Final salary will be determined based on seniority, merit, geographic location, education, training, and experience.

Benefits

• Ample paid time off to recharge and reset.
• 401K: traditional and Roth options, plus employer match.
• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and life insurance premiums for employees.
• Optional vision, life, short-term, and long-term disability coverage.
• Paid maternity leave.