Designer (Temp. with Perm Potential)

HDR Remodeling•Emeryville, CA

8d•$35 - $45•Onsite

About The Position

HDR Remodeling is an award-winning Design-Build firm celebrating 37 years of satisfied residential clients in the East Bay Area. We specialize in whole-house renovations, kitchen and bath remodeling, garage and basement conversions. Our start-to-finish process—from design concept to permit-ready plans to production—will guide you along the way to make sure your project is completed on time and within budget, and take the uncertainty and stress out of remodeling your home. Our philosophy—and passion—is to help our clients make their remodeling dreams come true. We are seeking a temporary-to-possible-permanent full-time (on-site) Designer to join our team in the Fall 2026. The Designer plays a key role in both the design and sales process—from concept development through signed construction agreements. This position is responsible for creating innovative, high-quality residential design, guiding clients through selections, and collaborating with the team to ensure projects meet aesthetic, functional, and budget goals. This role collaborates closely with the Design Manager, our team of designers, Estimation, and the Production Team to deliver seamless, well-documented design-build projects. The Designer plays a key role in shaping clients’ homes and experiences by combining creativity and strategy—leveraging strong CAD skills, design expertise, and excellent client communication to manage relationships, influence sales outcomes, and work independently with minimal supervision.

Requirements

Design Software: Highly proficient with CAD, Autodesk AutoCAD LT is our primary design software. (We do not use 20/20). Working knowledge of composing renderings in plan, elevation and 3D views, Photoshop, and Canva.
Office Software: Google Workspace, Slides, Docs, MS Excel, Word, Docusign, Adobe Acrobat, Slack, and other typical office equipment, printers and plotters.
Must have 3-5 years of design-build experience working in high-end residential design
Must have a reliable vehicle
Authorized to work in the United States

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as design or architecture
Extensive kitchen and bathroom design experience
Deep understanding of NKBA design guidelines
Working knowledge of California Building Codes and Title 24 requirements;
Well-developed aesthetic sense for helping clients select the finishes for their projects
Basic understanding of construction practices for kitchens and bathrooms
Strong knowledge of residential design principles and construction processes
Experience in creating detailed drawings and specifications
Ability to collaborate effectively with clients, architects, and contractors
Knowledge of building codes and regulations
Excellent communication and presentation skills
Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple projects and deadlines.
Must be able to read and execute plans

Responsibilities

Complete data gathering site visit for each project to take detailed measurements and document current conditions. Create accurate as-built drawings.
Develop design concepts and provide creative direction on all projects assigned by the Design Manager. Ensure all deadlines are set and met.
Complete drafting of approved plans, elevations and construction drawings.
Maintain client files and project binder using the approved format, including plans, drawings, specifications, fixtures, and finishes.
Work with the Design Manager to create and manage the design calendar for each project, including meeting schedules, milestones, and deadlines for key decisions.
Work with the Architectural Designer to prepare plans for and help expedite permit submissions in accordance with California Building Codes and City Codes.
Prepare detailed construction documents for the production team.
Maintain accurate time sheets for each project on Buildertrend.
Work with the clients to complete fixture, finish and material selection prior to signing the construction agreement.
Gather samples from suppliers as needed for client approval
Ensure client selections are accurately documented and approved in Builder Trend
Organize, update, and maintain the Design resource and sample library
Research new materials and building methods as needed to stay well informed on emerging trends.
Work with the Design Manager to develop accurate budgets with timely revisions for material costs and sub-contractor quotes. HDR labor will be estimated by the Production Manager.
Prepare packets with clear and concise scope of work statements, supporting documentation and drawings, and all other pertinent information for subcontractors and suppliers prior to the trade walk-through.
Ensure consistency between the approved plans, estimates, and Construction Agreement.
Prepare and execute accurate cabinet orders. Ensure the cabinet estimate is updated periodically as revisions are made during the design process.
Ensure complete and accurate transfer of information for order placement, production scheduling, and creation of project binders for the production team.
Cabinet delivery dates
Project specifications
Detailed construction drawings
Supplier quotes
Assist with subcontractor and supplier communication as needed
Participate in the design-to-production pass-the-baton meeting. Ensuring all meeting materials are completed on time.
Participate in production site visits to sign off on electrical fixture placement, tile layout, and cabinet layout.