Associate, Design - Raleigh

Unispace•Raleigh, NC

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

Unispace is seeking an Associate Designer to join its US Design team in the Southern Region, based in Raleigh. The role focuses on developing design pitches, leading commercial workplace projects, and growing key client relationships. The Associate works closely with Sales, Strategy, Preconstruction, and Delivery teams to win work and guide projects through successful completion, transforming commercial workspaces for clients in the Office Interiors market. The Associate leads workplace design projects from inception through delivery, advises clients and manages senior stakeholder relationships, develops RFP responses and pitches, and mentors Designers and Senior Designers. The role also promotes Unispace’s project methodology, supports studio and practice development, manages design and commercial risks, and applies workplace-market insights to client solutions. The role requires regular collaboration in the studio and travel to client sites and project venues. Hybrid and flexible working are supported where possible. Unispace describes its culture as collaborative and inclusive, and offers a competitive salary, benefits, paid time off, travel opportunities, rewards and recognition, executive career development, and a focus on well-being.

Requirements

Proven track record leading complex, end-to-end commercial interior design projects.
Demonstrated success delivering high-profile pitches and developing persuasive RFP materials, with strong presentation skills.
Deep understanding of project financials, local building codes, market trends, and US industry standards.
Strong proficiency in design software, including Revit, InDesign, and Photoshop, and ability to oversee documentation and technical quality.
Ability to guide project teams, influence executive stakeholders, and foster an inclusive, high-performing studio environment.
Ability to navigate ambiguity, prioritize under pressure, and manage multiple complex deadlines simultaneously.
Ability to collaborate regularly in the studio and travel to client sites and project venues.

Responsibilities

Lead high-profile workplace design projects from inception through delivery, ensuring technical excellence, innovation, and alignment with client vision.
Manage senior stakeholder relationships, advise clients, navigate complex requirements, and maintain long-term partnerships.
Partner with Sales and Preconstruction to lead RFP responses, develop design narratives, and deliver pitches to secure new business.
Direct and mentor Designers and Senior Designers on creative and technical drawing sets, finish selection, and presentation standards.
Collaborate with internal teams, external consultants, and delivery partners throughout the project lifecycle, championing the Unispace methodology.
Drive design best practices, sustainability standards, processes, and technology adoption within the studio.
Identify, manage, and mitigate project design and commercial risks in collaboration with Design Principals and Delivery leadership.
Monitor workplace trends, emerging technologies, and commercial market dynamics, translating insights into client solutions.