Associate, Restaurant Design

El Pollo LocoCosta Mesa, CA

About The Position

The Design Associate will support the Design & Construction Teams for both company and franchise remodel projects. The role requires strong organizational skills, technical design knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple timelines simultaneously.

Requirements

  • Professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field preferred.
  • 3+ years of experience in restaurant, hospitality, or retail design, and construction administration.
  • Proficiency in CAD, Bluebeam Revu, Smartsheet, Microsoft Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Working knowledge of IBC, Health Code, and ADA compliance.
  • Familiarity with remodel, conversion/TI, and ground-up construction processes.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to independently manage multiple projects and deadlines.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
  • Strong communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills; ability to speak, write, and comprehend basic English.
  • Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
  • Ability to travel to corporate project site visits, punch walks, conferences, and franchise support activities, as needed.

Responsibilities

  • Primary point of contact for company and franchise remodels to execute EPL Design Standards across architectural, civil/site design, kitchen layout, and interior design disciplines.
  • Support development goals by maintaining the remodel pipelines in Smartsheet and driving schedules.
  • Maintain and update FF&E standards and documentation for system-wide distribution.
  • Conduct product and construction method research to support design solutions.
  • Manage RFP coordination and formal project communications.
  • Review and process construction administration documents.
  • Prepare design-related presentation materials for consultants, franchisees, and executive leadership.
  • Attend site visits, scope walks, punch walks, conferences, and other development-related functions as needed.
  • Performs other duties as assigned by management.
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