Mediabistro logo
job logo

Play Space Designer

kidandcad, New York, NY, United States


We’re seeking a skilled and imaginative Play Space Designer

to join our in‑person design team. This role blends interior design, environmental design, and custom fabrication, with a focus on creating immersive, safe, and developmentally appropriate play environments. Ideal candidates bring strong spatial design skills, experience in concept‑to‑construction workflows, and a passion for designing playful, narrative‑driven spaces. CPSI certification and/or a New York design license are highly preferred.

Responsibilities

Collaborate with clients to understand their vision, functional needs, safety requirements, and project goals

Develop conceptual designs, schematic layouts, and detailed design plans for custom indoor play environments

Produce drawings, renderings, and presentations using tools such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite

Create mood boards, material palettes, and visual narratives tailored to each project

Prepare technical documentation including plans, elevations, sections, and specifications for fabrication

Integrate safety standards and best practices into all design decisions, especially those related to fall zones, surfacing, circulation, and equipment layout

Conduct site visits to verify dimensions, assess conditions, and coordinate with contractors and fabricators

Work closely with internal teams—including carpentry, CNC, foam, paint, and upholstery—to ensure design intent is executed accurately

Manage the full client journey from concept through installation, including communication, approvals, and coordination

Prepare proposals, quotes, and scope documents outlining deliverables, pricing, and timelines

Participate in construction administration, including reviewing shop drawings, evaluating bids, and addressing technical issues during installation

Maintain a strong understanding of materials, finishes, fabrication methods, and child‑focused design considerations

Support visual presentations, workshops, and client meetings as needed

Take on additional responsibilities as required to support project and business needs

Requirements

Ability to commute to our Maybrook, NY office 5 days per week

3+ years of experience in interior design, environmental design, playground design, or related fields

Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design, Architecture, Industrial Design, or a related discipline; Master’s degree is a plus

Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite

Strong understanding of space planning, materials, color theory, and environmental storytelling

Ability to communicate design ideas through sketches, diagrams, and digital graphics

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong project management abilities, including budgeting, scheduling, and client coordination

Ability to work in person, on your feet, and occasionally lift 30+ lbs during site visits or design reviews

Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and comfortable managing multiple projects simultaneously

US Work Authorization

Preferred Qualifications

CPSI certification (Certified Playground Safety Inspector)

Familiarity with safety codes, accessibility guidelines, and child‑focused design standards

What We Offer

Paid sick and personal time

A fast‑growing, startup‑style environment with opportunities to expand your skill set

Hands‑on collaboration with fabrication teams bringing your designs to life

Creative, narrative‑driven projects with real impact on families and communities

A supportive team culture with clear communication and shared ownership of project success

#J-18808-Ljbffr