Design Manager Job at MBH Architects in Alameda

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We are seeking a highly creative and talented designer with experience in Architecture to join MBH as a Design Manager or Senior Design Manager. This individual will help develop and execute innovative designs focused on retail, restaurant, and hospitality design concepts for our clients. This role requires a strong understanding of retail and restaurant design principles, technical expertise, and the ability to manage projects from concept to completion. The ideal candidate is a passionate designer with excellent communication and collaboration skills.

What You’ll Do

• Design Development: Develop innovative and functional design concepts that meet client objectives and brand standards; create compelling design presentations, including renderings, sketches, and mood boards; collaborate with the Client’s design team to refine and develop design concepts; stay current on retail and restaurant design trends, materials, and technologies.
• Technical Expertise: Oversee schematic-level construction documents, including floor plans, elevations, sections, and details; ensure projects comply with building codes and regulations.
• Project/Client Management: Develop project timelines and budgets for multiple design projects, manage these projects to ensure delivery on time and within budget; build and maintain strong relationships with clients, managing their expectations to ensure satisfaction; provide space planning, interior elevations, and other visuals based on the client’s design standards and specific site conditions; present design concepts and proposals to clients; address client feedback and incorporate changes into designs; identify and negotiate additional services with the client; assist with developing proposals and reviewing contracts.
• Collaboration & Communication: Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including marketing and operations; communicate design vision and concepts clearly to internal and external stakeholders; participate in team meetings and design reviews.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
• Experience leading a team of designers and the ability to develop and grow junior staff
• Knowledge of design software, including Revit, Sketchup, Bluebeam, Enscape, and Rhino
• Advanced knowledge of building codes and accessibility requirements, and the ability to implement them into construction drawings
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple projects
• Experience effectively presenting design concepts to clients
• Ability to influence client stakeholders to align on design decisions
• Strong leadership, entrepreneurial drive, and collaboration skills
• Ability to travel on an as-needed basis
• Ability to work across multiple offices and time zones

Nice To Have

• LEED accreditation and experience

About MBH Architects

MBH Architects offers the best of both worlds: the resources of a top-tier firm with the supportive culture of a close-knit team. With offices in the San Francisco Bay Area, New York, Denver, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, we provide hybrid flexibility and global reach. Our success is built on meaningful collaboration and continuous education. Through integrated services (architecture, environmental graphics, fixture 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 inspired. What sets us apart? A strong sense of community, dedication to sustainability and social impact, and a culture that celebrates creativity and connection—whether through design competitions or our legendary waffle-offs. If you are passionate about your work, and strive for excellence in everything you do, MBH Architects could be the perfect fit for you. MBH participates in EVerify for all of our US hires and follows applicable local and national hiring laws for all of our locations.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
• Industries: Architecture and Planning