Senior Designer
About The Position
Empire & Co. is seeking an experienced Senior Designer to join our NYC Office. The Senior Designer will lead the development of innovative workplace design solutions for commercial clients while collaborating closely with Sales, Project Management, and Client Services throughout the project lifecycle. This role requires a highly creative and technically skilled design professional with strong leadership abilities, extensive knowledge of commercial interiors and contract furniture, and the ability to manage multiple projects from concept through installation. The Senior Designer serves as a trusted advisor to clients, ensuring design solutions align with their business objectives, budget, and brand identity.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of commercial contract furniture dealership experience required; senior-level experience preferred.
- Advanced proficiency in CET, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong knowledge of commercial furniture manufacturers and specification processes.
- Working knowledge of ADA requirements, building codes, fire codes, and other applicable regulations.
- Comfortable conducting field measurements, furniture inventories, and job site visits.
- Exceptional space planning, problem-solving, and creative design abilities.
- Strong attention to detail with excellent organizational and project management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
- Outstanding written and verbal communication skills.
- Strong presentation and client relationship management experience.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor team members and collaborate effectively across departments.
Nice To Haves
- Experience designing with Steelcase products is strongly preferred.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design and development of workplace solutions from programming through project completion.
- Produce high-quality furniture plans, specifications, installation drawings, 3D renderings, and presentation materials using CET and other design software.
- Develop space plans, furniture layouts, finish palettes, and digital presentation boards.
- Review, revise, and finalize drawings and specifications throughout the design process.
- Conduct client programming meetings to understand business goals, functional requirements, workplace strategies, and budget expectations.
- Present design concepts and recommendations to clients, architects, designers, and project stakeholders.
- Coordinate with Sales, Project Managers, Sales Support, and installation teams to ensure design intent is maintained throughout project execution.
- Perform field verification, furniture inventories, and site measurements as needed.
- Incorporate existing furniture into new design solutions when appropriate.
- Review specifications and drawings for quality assurance and mentor junior designers through specification reviews and design guidance.
- Maintain accurate project documentation, time tracking, and design files in accordance with department standards.
- Ensure all deliverables meet project timelines while maintaining exceptional quality and accuracy.
- Stay current on workplace trends, emerging products, manufacturer updates, and industry best practices through continuing education and professional development.
- Represent Empire & Co. at client meetings, industry events, manufacturer presentations, and networking opportunities.
Stand Out From the Crowd
Upload your resume and get instant feedback on how well it matches this job.
What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
