MBH Architects is hiring: Store Planner - Planning Studio in Alameda

Store Planner - Planning Studio

Alameda, CA

Compensation: $87,000 - $103,000 + Mid-Year and End-Of Year Discretionary Bonus

We are seeking an experienced and highly organized Store Planner in our Alameda office (hybrid) to lead our retail planning team in delivering high-volume, technical layout projects for a global retail tech company's worldwide program. This role blends design oversight, production leadership, and team management within a fast-paced, template-driven rollout environment.

MBH is an equal-opportunity employer that values diversity, equity, & inclusion in the workplace. To request a reasonable accommodation during the interview process please email resumes@mbharch.com.

What You'll Do

Project & Team leadership

• Oversee and guide the production of consistent, accurate 2D/3D store layout plans using CAD, Revit, and other modeling tools.
• Lead a team of space planners in translating survey data into plan layouts that align with retail planning best practices.
• Mentor, train, and supervise junior staff while delegating tasks and providing quality feedback.
• Manage and maintain project schedules and workflow through Jira, Trello, or similar project management platforms.
• Contribute to the development and refinement of internal planning processes, workflows, and templates.

Client Collaboration and Communication

• Present and review plans, elevations, Enscape models, and layout designs with clients on a daily basis, conducting live editing sessions in Bluebeam.
• Facilitate collaborative reviews where multiple stakeholders provide input in real time, efficiently translating feedback into actionable updates to ensure design intent and client expectations are consistently met.
• Coordinate and oversee client presentations and meetings, managing expectations and resolving project challenges.
• Collaborate with internal PMs, Studio Directors, and vendors to ensure project scope, schedules, and deliverables are aligned.

Technical Expertise & Adaptability

• Demonstrate a strong ability to quickly adapt to and learn new software platforms, including proprietary and brand-specific systems. Use a proactive, self-directed approach to mastering tools with minimal guidance, efficiently troubleshooting and resolving technical challenges to maintain workflow continuity across diverse projects and industries.
• Bring a creative and resourceful approach to utilizing design software, constantly exploring new techniques and workflows to improve efficiency and quality. Leverage deep knowledge of tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma to streamline processes, reduce turnaround times, and elevate the standard of deliverables. Actively experiment with new features, plugins, and automation methods to minimize repetitive work while maintaining a high level of design execution.
• Evaluate and incorporate site survey data, merchandising strategies, and fixtures into project layouts.

Quality Control & Standards

• Ensure compliance with standardized templates, regional retail guidelines, and brand requirements across all projects.
• Support quality control through rigorous documentation reviews and production audits. Review and approve redlines, revisions, and team deliverables with a focus on accuracy and adherence to standards.

Travel

• Travel weekly to client offices or project sites as needed.

Minimum Qualifications

• Proven experience in space planning for retail or commercial interiors.
• Experience managing planning tasks in high-volume, fast-paced, or rollout-driven environments.
• Proficiency in Revit (required); experience with CAD and other modeling tools a plus.
• Strong project and team management skills, with the ability to prioritize, delegate, and manage multiple deadlines effectively.
• Exceptional attention to detail with a focus on maintaining consistency, accuracy, and quality across all deliverables.
• Strong communication skills with experience leading live client working sessions, making real-time plan updates, and clearly articulating design decisions.
• Ability to navigate client input, offer creative design solutions, and take initiative even without direct client instruction.
• Proactive, flexible, and solutions-oriented mindset. Willing to take on responsibilities beyond the job description to support the team and deliver exceptional client outcomes.
• Collaborative leadership style with the ability to troubleshoot workflow challenges and adapt quickly to new tools, platforms, and evolving project needs.

Benefits

• 100% Paid Employee Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401k Profit Sharing
• Paid Holidays, Vacation, Volunteer, and Sick Time Off
• Professional development stipend
• LinkedIn Learning and Hone classes
• Hybrid work stipend, office snacks, and monthly lunches
• Commuter Benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Company sponsored Life, AD&D, and Disability Insurance

About MBH Architects

MBH Architects combines the opportunities of a top-tier firm with the close-knit culture of a smaller practice. With offices in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Denver, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, we offer hybrid flexibility to meet today’s professionals' needs.

Our success is built on meaningful work-life balance and creative excellence. Through integrated services—including architecture, environmental graphics, and interior design—we deliver world-class projects including multi-family housing, labs, retail experiences for iconic brands and many more. We believe great work happens when people feel supported and energized.

What sets MBH apart is our commitment to fostering a community where every team member can thrive both professionally and personally. We prioritize sustainability and social impact in our projects, while cultivating camaraderie through team events, from design competitions to waffle-offs.

At MBH, your unique perspective is valued, your growth is supported, and your well-being matters.

Why MBH Architects?

At MBH, we believe in the power of collaboration and community. Our success is built on the foundation of helping each other grow and thrive. We pride ourselves on producing high-quality work, but even more so, we value the strength of our teams. Every member of the MBH family brings unique talents and perspectives that contribute to our collective achievements.

While we work hard and move at a fast pace, we never lose sight of the importance of supporting one another and having fun along the way. From our annual Halloween costume contest and waffle-offs to competing in international design competitions, we know how to balance serious work with a sense of camaraderie and joy.

If you are passionate about your work, and strive for excellence in everything you do, MBH Architects could be the perfect fit for you.

https://www.mbharch.com

MBH participates in EVerify for all of our US hires and follows applicable federal and state laws.