Technical Design Lead - Food Service

Responsibilities

Thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Demonstrate strong organizational, problem-solving, logistical planning, and communication skills (verbal and written).
Apply a thorough understanding of commercial interior design, with a strong emphasis on hospitality and/or foodservice applications.
Audit design deliverables against budgetary constraints to ensure fiscal alignment, providing expert oversight on material costs and constructability to prevent budget overruns.
Build and maintain positive client relationships, guiding stakeholders toward optimal design solutions.
Ensure compliance with all applicable codes related to public health, safety, and welfare.
Operate effectively within a team-oriented office environment.
Maintain strong computer proficiency and quickly adapt to new tools, software, and processes.

Interior Design & Technical Rigor

• Lead the technical development of all project phases, with a primary focus on refining Design Development (DD) and Construction Documentation (CD) sets.
• Execute and oversee high-level detailing, including custom millwork, integrated lighting solutions, and complex material transitions.
• Audit and enforce rigorous quality control (QC) processes, conducting comprehensive reviews of drawing sets to eliminate errors and ensure seamless site implementation.
• Mastermind FF&E specifications, ensuring all furniture, fixtures, and equipment meet durability, safety, and luxury standards for high-traffic hospitality environments.
• Standardize technical workflows, developing detailed libraries and specification templates that elevate the firm’s output.
• Serve as the technical liaison between the design studio and external consultants (MEP, Structural, Architectural) to ensure absolute coordination of all building systems.
• Conduct on-site inspections and punch-list walkthroughs, verifying that the physical execution aligns perfectly with the design intent and documented specifications.

Branding Integration

Identify and lead opportunities to incorporate branding into design projects.
Support branding initiatives through artwork selection and smallwares coordination in coordination with the Branding Department.

Project Excellence & Compliance

• Uphold and evolve company design standards, acting as the final gatekeeper for technical deliverables before they leave the studio.
• Select and apply materials and finishes, ensuring they meet both the aesthetic vision and the stringent performance requirements of foodservice and hospitality codes.
• Navigate complex regulatory environments, ensuring all designs exceed public health, life safety, and accessibility (ADA) requirements.
• Review and verify procurement documentation and shop drawings for technical accuracy, pricing alignment, and adherence to design specifications.

Mentorship & Design Leadership

• Mentor junior design staff specifically in the areas of technical drafting, material science, and the art of detailing.
• Take ownership of the "buildability" of a project, translating conceptual sketches into sophisticated, constructible realities.
• Partner with Leadership to identify technical gaps in the design process and implement advanced production or methodology solutions.

About Company

SCOPOS Hospitality Group is a premier hospitality consulting firm that values innovation, creativity, and excellence. Our team specializes in designing, programming, branding, and providing operational support services to senior living, healthcare, corporate, and educational institutions. We're passionate about bringing new concepts to life, challenging the status quo, and exceeding customer expectations through exceptional culinary experiences and design.

Benefits

• 401(k) with matching
• Dental, life, medical, and vision insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Extensive PTO
• Vibrant office with weekly breakfast, lunch and learns, and other perks

Company-Wide Responsibilities

• Participate in daily stand-up meetings to review schedules and priorities.
• Perform all work in alignment with company standards and vision.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of all company processes and documentation.
• Always deliver exceptional customer service.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of project management best practices.
• Stay current with evolving project management tools and methodologies.

Qualifications

• Accredited Professional Degree in Interior Design or Architecture.
• Typically, 7+ years of relevant experience, with a proven portfolio showcasing advanced technical detailing and successful project delivery in the hospitality sector.
• NCIDQ Certification is highly preferred and strongly prioritized for this role; AIA or LEED AP credentials are also viewed favorably.
• Proven experience in commercial interior design, including hospitality, foodservice, senior living, and higher education.
• Demonstrated ability to lead projects and manage multiple priorities independently.
• Strong client-facing and presentation skills.
• Expert Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam (or similar QC software), with an emphasis on advanced BIM coordination.
• Profound knowledge of hospitality-specific codes and the nuances of foodservice integration.