Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Archadeck of Central Maine Location: Brewer, Maine, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Sales / GTM Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-08T15:52:51 Experience Level: 2-5 years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth through expert consultative selling of custom outdoor living solutions, aligning client needs with Archadeck's premium offerings.
• Manage the entire sales cycle from initial client engagement and lead qualification to proposal generation and contract closure, ensuring adherence to documented sales processes.
• Foster strong client relationships by delivering exceptional customer service, maintaining deep product knowledge, and proactively addressing client requirements.
• Actively participate in lead generation strategies, including self-generated leads, trade alliances, and networking with industry professionals to expand market reach.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," functions heavily within a Go-To-Market (GTM) and Sales Operations framework. The emphasis on consultative selling, lead management, process adherence, and revenue generation positions it as a critical component of the sales engine, requiring a blend of design acumen and sales operational discipline.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home consultations and client meetings to deeply understand customer needs, lifestyle, and design preferences for outdoor living spaces.
• Develop and present compelling design proposals, including 2D/3D renderings, material selections, and detailed project scope, to prospective clients.
• Articulate the value proposition of Archadeck's services and products, effectively differentiating from competitors and securing client buy-in.
• Meticulously follow the company's documented sales process, from lead qualification and discovery to proposal delivery and contract signing, ensuring efficiency and consistency.
• Proactively identify, qualify, and nurture sales leads generated through marketing campaigns, referrals, and personal business development efforts.
• Collaborate with internal design and construction teams to ensure seamless project handoff and accurate execution of client-approved designs.
• Maintain a comprehensive database of clients and prospects, tracking interactions, progress, and follow-up activities within the CRM system.
• Develop and execute an annual business plan in collaboration with the Business Owner to achieve or exceed assigned sales quotas and revenue targets.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, new materials, and construction best practices to enhance design recommendations and maintain competitive product knowledge.
• Participate in local trade shows, industry events, and networking opportunities to build brand awareness and generate new business leads.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a sales-focused role that requires strong client-facing skills, design sensibilities, and a disciplined approach to sales operations. The emphasis on "documented processes" and "sales quota" highlights the operational rigor expected.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.

Experience:

• Minimum of 2 years of proven sales experience, with a strong preference for candidates who have consistently met or exceeded sales quotas.
• Experience in residential design or a related creative field is highly desirable.
• Basic knowledge of construction principles and practices is preferred.
• Ability to learn and interpret construction drawings and blueprints is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Consultative Selling: Ability to engage clients in meaningful conversations to uncover needs and recommend tailored solutions.
• Interpersonal Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for client interaction, presentation, and internal collaboration.
• Customer Service Excellence: Demonstrated commitment to providing outstanding client experiences and building lasting relationships.
• Product Knowledge Acquisition: Aptitude for quickly learning and retaining detailed information about outdoor living products and design options.
• Presentation Skills: Proficiency in developing and delivering compelling presentations and proposals.
• Lead Management: Skill in identifying, qualifying, and nurturing sales leads through the pipeline.
• Business Ethics: Adherence to company policies, procedures, and professional business ethics.

Preferred Skills:

• Construction Acumen: Foundational understanding of building methods, materials, and project lifecycles.
• Design Software Familiarity: Experience with 2D/3D design software or architectural visualization tools.
• CRM Proficiency: Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for sales tracking and client management.
• Networking & Business Development: Proven ability to generate leads through proactive outreach and relationship building.
• Adaptability & Quick Learning: Capacity to rapidly adapt to new environments, processes, and product offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of sales proficiency, design aptitude, and a willingness to learn construction specifics. The "preferred" skills like construction knowledge and design software point towards candidates who can hit the ground running with a solid foundation, while the "required" skills ensure a baseline of sales effectiveness and client management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 2-3 detailed case studies of past design projects, highlighting the client's initial brief, the design solutions proposed, and the final outcome.
• Sales Process Adherence Examples: Demonstrate how you have followed established sales processes in previous roles, including examples of lead qualification, proposal development, objection handling, and closing techniques.
• Client Relationship Management: Provide examples of how you have managed client relationships throughout the sales cycle, including communication strategies, follow-up protocols, and conflict resolution.
• Metrics and Performance Documentation: Include any available documentation or examples of how you have tracked and reported on your sales performance, such as quota attainment, conversion rates, or revenue generated.

Process Documentation:

• Ability to meticulously document client interactions, design specifications, and sales progress within a CRM system.
• Commitment to following and contributing to the refinement of the company's established sales and design processes.
• Capacity to articulate and explain the company's documented sales process to potential clients during consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a traditional "operations" portfolio might focus on process mapping or system implementation, for this "Design Consultant" role, the portfolio should center on showcasing the practical application of sales and design processes. This includes demonstrating how the candidate has successfully guided clients through a structured process to achieve desired outcomes, highlighting their ability to manage the sales pipeline effectively.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Consultants with 2-5 years of experience in the Maine market, a competitive salary range is estimated to be between $50,000 - $75,000 annually, with potential for commission or bonuses based on sales performance. Note: This estimate is based on regional cost of living, typical commission structures in the home improvement/construction sales sector, and the provided benefits. Actual compensation will be determined by experience, performance, and the company's specific compensation plan.

Benefits:

• 401(k): Retirement savings plan to support long-term financial planning.
• Competitive Salary: A strong base salary designed to attract and retain talent.
• Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage to support employee well-being.
• Commission/Performance Bonuses: Potential for additional earnings based on achieving and exceeding sales targets.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week.
• Flexibility may be required to accommodate client appointments, which may include evenings and weekends. The role necessitates on-site presence for client consultations and site visits.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on average Design Consultant roles in Brewer, ME, considering the provided benefits and the "competitive salary" mention. The emphasis on potential for commission is a standard expectation for sales roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Outdoor Living / Home Improvement / Construction. Archadeck of Central Maine operates within a sector focused on enhancing residential properties through custom-built outdoor spaces, leveraging a national brand's expertise with local market focus. Company Size: Archadeck of Central Maine is likely a part of the larger Archadeck Outdoor Living franchise network. The local operation may range from a small, specialized team to a moderately sized business unit, indicating a potentially close-knit team environment with direct access to leadership. Founded: Archadeck Outdoor Living was founded in 1980, bringing decades of experience and established best practices to its franchise network. This long history suggests a stable, process-driven organization with a proven track record in the outdoor living design and build industry.

Team Structure:

• Sales-Focused: The core of the team likely revolves around sales and design professionals, working collaboratively to bring client visions to life.
• Project Management Integration: Close collaboration with project managers and construction crews is essential for successful project execution.
• Direct Leadership Access: In a franchise model, designers often work closely with the local Business Owner or Sales Manager, allowing for direct mentorship and strategic alignment.

Methodology:

• Consultative Design Approach: Emphasis on understanding client needs through in-depth consultations and providing tailored design solutions.
• Process-Driven Sales: Strict adherence to documented sales processes to ensure consistency, efficiency, and a high close rate.
• Quality Construction Standards: Commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and materials in all outdoor living projects.

Company Website: https://archadeck.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights a blend of design creativity and operational discipline. As a franchise, Archadeck of Central Maine benefits from established brand standards and processes while allowing for local market adaptation, which is crucial for a Design Consultant role.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role sits at an intermediate level within the GTM and Sales function. While not a pure "operations" role, it requires operational discipline in sales execution and process management. It's a client-facing position with significant individual responsibility for revenue generation. Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant typically reports directly to the local Business Owner or a Sales Manager. This structure allows for direct feedback, coaching, and strategic alignment with business objectives. Operations Impact: The Design Consultant is a primary driver of revenue and client acquisition. Their ability to convert leads into paying customers directly impacts the company's financial performance and growth trajectory. Effective sales operations, including lead management and process adherence, are critical to their success and the company's overall GTM strategy.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: With proven success, opportunities may arise to become a senior member of the sales team, mentor junior consultants, or specialize in complex design projects.
• Sales Management: Transition into a Sales Manager or Business Development role, overseeing a team of consultants and contributing to broader sales strategy.
• Franchise Ownership: For highly ambitious individuals, opportunities to explore franchise ownership within the Archadeck network may become available over time.
• Specialized Design Certifications: Pursuing advanced certifications in landscape design, architectural rendering, or specific construction techniques can enhance expertise and career prospects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for a Design Consultant within a company like Archadeck of Central Maine typically involves deepening sales expertise, potentially moving into leadership, or specializing further in design and construction. The "operations" aspect comes from mastering the sales process and contributing to its efficiency.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role involves a hybrid work environment. A significant portion of the work will be conducted on-site at client residences for consultations and design presentations. There will also be time spent in a local office or home office for administrative tasks, design work, and team meetings. Office Location(s): The primary service area is centered around Brewer, Maine, and surrounding regions. The "office" could be a dedicated space within the franchise owner's location or a designated home office setup, with travel to client sites being a key component.

Workspace Context:

• Client-Centric: The primary workspace is the client's home or property, requiring strong professional presence and adaptability to various environments.
• Design & Admin Space: A dedicated area for design work (potentially with design software), proposal preparation, and CRM management is necessary.
• Collaborative Opportunities: Regular interaction with the local Business Owner, sales team, and potentially project managers for strategy alignment and project handoffs.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, approximately 40 hours per week.
• While a standard workweek exists, flexibility is crucial. Client appointments often dictate evening and weekend availability. This requires excellent time management to balance client needs with administrative responsibilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" nature of client interactions is a defining characteristic of this role's work environment, necessitating strong organizational skills and the ability to manage time effectively across different locations and tasks.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A phone or video call with a recruiter or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• In-Depth Interview: A meeting with the Business Owner or Sales Manager to discuss sales experience, design approach, and understanding of the consultative sales process. This may include a role-playing exercise.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where candidates present their portfolio, showcasing design work, sales process examples, and client management skills. Be prepared to discuss specific projects and demonstrate how you achieved sales goals.
• Skills Assessment/Case Study: A potential practical exercise, such as a mock client consultation or a design challenge, to evaluate problem-solving abilities, design thinking, and communication skills.
• Final Interview & Offer: A final meeting to discuss terms, benefits, and extend an offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your design skills, sales process, and ability to meet client needs.
• Structure for Impact: For each project, clearly outline:
  • Client Brief/Needs
  • Your Design Solution & Rationale
  • Sales Process Used (e.g., how you qualified, presented, closed)
  • Key Outcomes/Client Satisfaction
  • Any measurable results (e.g., revenue generated, conversion rate for similar projects)
• Highlight Process Adherence: Explicitly discuss how you followed or adapted existing sales processes, and how you would integrate into Archadeck's documented system.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate your success (e.g., "Increased average deal size by 15%," "Achieved 110% of sales quota for Q3").
• Professional Presentation: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate. Practice your presentation to ensure a smooth and confident delivery.

Challenge Preparation:

• Mock Consultations: Practice conducting simulated client consultations, focusing on active listening, asking probing questions, and presenting solutions persuasively.
• Design Thinking: Be prepared to discuss your design process, how you approach unique client challenges, and how you stay updated on design trends and materials.
• Sales Process Articulation: Clearly articulate your understanding of a consultative sales process and how you would apply Archadeck's documented methods.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for this role heavily emphasizes practical demonstration of sales and design capabilities, with a strong focus on how candidates can integrate into the company's existing sales and design frameworks. The portfolio is the key tool to demonstrate this.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Proficiency in using a CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a custom system) for lead tracking, client management, sales pipeline visualization, and reporting is essential. Archadeck likely uses a proprietary or industry-specific CRM.
• Design Software: Familiarity with design and visualization tools is highly preferred. This could include software like SketchUp, AutoCAD, Chief Architect, or similar 2D/3D rendering platforms.
• Microsoft Office Suite/Google Workspace: Standard productivity tools for document creation, spreadsheet analysis, and presentations (Word/Docs, Excel/Sheets, PowerPoint/Slides).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Ability to interpret and utilize sales dashboards to track personal performance against quotas and identify areas for improvement.
• CRM Reporting: Generating reports on leads, pipeline status, conversion rates, and client engagement.

CRM & Automation:

• Sales Process Automation: Understanding how CRM workflows and automation can streamline the sales cycle, from lead assignment to follow-up reminders.
• Communication Tools: Utilizing email, phone, and potentially video conferencing tools for client and internal communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not a traditional IT-focused operations role, proficiency with CRM systems and design software is critical. The ability to leverage technology for sales efficiency and client engagement is a key operational aspect of this position.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and fulfilling client needs, ensuring exceptional satisfaction throughout the design and sales process.
• Process Integrity: Adherence to documented sales and design processes to ensure consistency, quality, and efficiency in all client interactions.
• Continuous Improvement: A mindset geared towards learning new design trends, construction methods, and sales techniques to enhance personal performance and contribute to team growth.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with internal teams (design, construction, admin) and external partners to deliver outstanding projects.
• Professionalism & Ethics: Upholding high standards of integrity, honesty, and professionalism in all dealings with clients and colleagues.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Seamless collaboration with project managers and construction teams to ensure designs are accurately translated into built realities, requiring clear communication and problem-solving.
• Sales Team Synergy: Sharing best practices, market insights, and lead intelligence with fellow sales consultants and management to collectively drive revenue.
• Feedback Loop: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback on designs, sales approaches, and client interactions to foster continuous learning and improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture values a blend of client-focused creativity and disciplined execution. Success hinges on integrating design expertise with a structured sales approach, emphasizing collaboration across different functions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively merging creative design aspirations with the practicalities and constraints of construction, budget, and client expectations.
• Lead Conversion Rates: Consistently converting qualified leads into closed sales in a competitive market requires strong persuasion and problem-solving skills.
• Managing Client Expectations: Navigating diverse client needs, personalities, and budgets while ensuring realistic expectations are set and met.
• Staying Current: Keeping up-to-date with evolving design trends, material innovations, and construction techniques in the dynamic outdoor living industry.
• Geographic Reach: Managing a territory that may require significant travel across a broad service area while maintaining efficiency.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Training: Access to specialized training in areas like landscape architecture, CAD software, or specific outdoor structure design.
• Sales Methodology Workshops: Opportunities to attend sales training focused on consultative selling, negotiation, and closing techniques.
• Product & Materials Education: Continuous learning about new materials, building codes, and innovative outdoor living solutions.
• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced Business Owners, Sales Managers, or senior consultants within the Archadeck network.
• Industry Events: Participation in trade shows and conferences to network and learn about industry advancements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a sales and design role, requiring resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to professional development. The growth opportunities are structured to build expertise and potential leadership within the GTM function.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for conducting a client consultation for an outdoor living space. What key questions do you ask, and how do you tailor your approach?" (Focus on consultative selling, client needs assessment, and process adherence.)
• "Walk me through a complex design project you managed from initial contact to sale. What were the challenges, how did you overcome them, and what was the outcome?" (Prepare a portfolio case study highlighting problem-solving, design skills, and sales closure.)
• "How do you stay updated on design trends, new materials, and construction best practices in the outdoor living industry?" (Demonstrate continuous learning and passion for the field.)
• "Describe a time you had to handle a difficult client or objection. How did you approach it, and what was the resolution?" (Showcase customer service skills, negotiation, and conflict resolution.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracted you to Archadeck of Central Maine specifically, and why do you think you'd be a good fit for our team and culture?" (Research the company's values, local presence, and demonstrate alignment.)
• "How do you approach working within a documented sales process, and what is your experience with CRM systems?" (Emphasize your ability to follow established procedures and leverage technology.)
• "What are your expectations regarding performance metrics and sales targets in this role?" (Show enthusiasm for results-driven work and quota attainment.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio example as a narrative: the client's dream, your solution, and the successful realization.
• Process Integration: Explicitly connect your past experiences to Archadeck's documented processes. Explain how you would apply their methods.
• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images and clear diagrams. Ensure any data presented is easy to understand.
• Conciseness: Be mindful of time. Practice presenting your most impactful projects efficiently.
• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your design choices, sales tactics, and how you handled specific client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of design creativity, robust sales process execution, and excellent client management skills, all while aligning with Archadeck's established operational framework.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link: https://archadeck-central-maine.careerplug.com/jobs/3225509/apps/new
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights 2-3 of your most relevant design and sales success stories. Tailor the project descriptions to emphasize how you identified client needs, applied design solutions, and followed a structured sales process to achieve results.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your sales experience, any construction or design knowledge, and quantifiable achievements (e.g., sales quotas met/exceeded, revenue generated). Use keywords such as "consultative selling," "lead generation," "client relationship management," and "design proposal."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your sales process and design methodology. Be ready to discuss specific examples from your portfolio and articulate how you would integrate with Archadeck's documented processes and culture.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Archadeck Outdoor Living's brand, services, and commitment to quality. Understand their approach to outdoor living design and construction to demonstrate genuine interest and alignment.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

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