Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer
Company: CESO, Inc.
Location: Rogers, AR
Job Type: Regular Full Time
Category: Design & Engineering Operations
Date Posted: January 27, 2026
Experience Level: 3-5 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on the operational execution of architectural design projects, ensuring seamless integration of engineering systems and adherence to design guidelines.
• Key responsibilities include the independent creation of detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings using advanced CAD/BIM software, requiring a strong understanding of design and drafting techniques.
• The position necessitates rigorous code research and interpretation, implementing compliant design solutions while maintaining company and client standards.
• A critical aspect involves cross-functional coordination, reviewing and assuring the alignment of Civil/SMEP (Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) drawings with architectural plans.
• This role demands meticulous self-checking and redline mark-up execution, ensuring accuracy and quality control before final submission to senior staff and project managers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The job title "Lead Designer" in an architectural context, combined with responsibilities like coordinating engineering systems and reviewing Civil/SMEP drawings, indicates a role deeply embedded within the operational delivery of design projects. This is distinct from a purely creative or conceptual design role, emphasizing the practical application of design principles within project constraints and timelines. The mention of "coordination of complex civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing and electrical engineering systems" points to a need for operational efficiency in managing these integrations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop detailed, scaled architectural plans for building construction projects, translating preliminary concepts and design guidelines provided by senior staff into actionable blueprints.
• Prepare comprehensive 2D and 3D detailed construction drawings and designs utilizing Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, with periodic oversight from senior team members.
• Conduct thorough research into building codes and regulations, interpret findings, and implement design solutions that comply with all company, client, and jurisdictional standards.
• Review Civil/SMEP engineering drawings to ensure seamless coordination and integration with the architectural design plans, identifying and resolving potential conflicts.
• Perform redline mark-ups accurately and efficiently as directed by senior staff, ensuring all revisions are clearly documented and implemented.
• Conduct rigorous self-checks and reviews of completed work and redlines, verifying correctness and completeness prior to submitting to Team Leads, Project Managers, or Quality Control teams.
• Prioritize and execute multiple tasks effectively in a high-pressure environment to consistently meet project deadlines and deliver high-quality design documentation.
• Contribute to a collaborative environment by actively participating in team meetings, offering insights, and supporting colleagues to achieve collective project goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "Begin to take an independent role" and "Takes an independent role" suggests this is a progression from an entry-level or junior designer position, where the individual is expected to manage specific design components with less direct supervision. The responsibility for "Self-check and review completed work" highlights a key operational control point for quality assurance within the design process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or a closely related field is a mandatory requirement.

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years of progressive professional experience in architectural design or a related field is required.

Required Skills:

• Proven proficiency in design and drafting techniques essential for architectural projects.
• Demonstrated ability to create and interpret architectural drawing sets, including detailed plans and elevations.
• Expertise in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, specifically the ability to perform modeling work and generate graphics.
• Strong understanding of construction documents and their components.
• Ability to research, interpret, and apply building codes and regulatory requirements to design solutions.
• Experience in preparing 2D and 3D detailed construction drawings.
• Proficiency with key design software including Revit and/or AutoCAD.
• Competency in Bluebeam Revu for document management and mark-ups.
• Familiarity with Autodesk Construction Cloud for project collaboration.
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for design visualization and presentation.
• Familiarity with civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical (Civil/SMEP) engineering drawings and coordination.
• Experience in a fast-paced, deadline-driven project environment.
• Strong communication skills for effectively collaborating with senior staff and project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for specific software like Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Autodesk Construction Cloud indicates a need for candidates who are not only designers but also proficient in the operational tools used for project delivery and collaboration in modern AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) firms. The inclusion of Adobe Creative Suite as a preferred skill suggests an emphasis on visual communication and client presentation alongside technical drawing.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3 distinct architectural building projects that demonstrate proficiency in developing detailed scaled plans from initial concepts.
• Include examples of 2D and 3D construction drawings created using CAD/BIM software, highlighting complexity and accuracy.
• Present case studies demonstrating your process for researching and interpreting building codes, along with the resulting design solutions.
• Provide examples of coordination efforts, such as reviewing and integrating Civil/SMEP drawings with architectural plans.
• Highlight instances where you performed and managed redline mark-ups, showcasing attention to detail and adherence to feedback.

Process Documentation:

• Detail your personal workflow for self-checking and reviewing completed design work and redlines to ensure accuracy before submission.
• Illustrate your approach to prioritizing and executing tasks to meet project deadlines in a high-pressure environment.
• Provide examples of how you collaborate with senior staff and project teams to ensure design integrity and alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Lead Designer" role, especially one focused on operational execution, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to go beyond just aesthetic renderings and demonstrate the applicant's ability to produce technically sound, detailed construction documents, manage coordination, and adhere to project workflows and quality control processes. The emphasis should be on the practical application of design skills within a project delivery framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Rogers, AR: $58,651 - $69,657 per year.
• National Range (Estimated): $58,651 - $100,528 per year. This broader range accounts for variations in cost of living, experience, and specific project responsibilities across different locations and markets.

Benefits:

• Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule: Offers adaptability to balance work and personal life.
• Paid Time Off: Credited 100% upfront, providing immediate access to accrued leave.
• 401K with Company Match: Supports long-term financial planning with employer contributions.
• Rewards and Recognition Program: Acknowledges and rewards employee contributions and achievements.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement.
• Paid Holidays: Standard company-paid holidays.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance options.
• Welcome Box: A thoughtful onboarding package for new employees.
• Casual Dress Code: Promotes a comfortable work environment.
• Reimbursement for Professional Licenses: Supports ongoing professional certification and licensure.
• Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events: Encourages civic engagement and team building.
• Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term/Long-Term Disability: Provides income protection.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Offers confidential support for personal and work-related challenges.
• Company Paid Bonding and Recovery: Support for employees, potentially related to parental leave or critical incidents.
• Employee Events: Lunches and outings designed to foster a positive work environment and team cohesion.

Working Hours:

• Expected 40 hours per week, with a flexible and hybrid work schedule offered.

📝 Enhancement Note: The provided salary range for Rogers, AR, is specific. The broader national range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for a Lead Designer role with 3-5 years of experience, considering factors like the company's size and industry. The benefits package is extensive and points to a company that invests in employee well-being and professional development, which is attractive to operations professionals seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC), with a diverse portfolio including retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, and worship sectors. This broad industry exposure means operations professionals will engage with varied project types and client needs. Company Size: CESO, Inc. is a mid-to-large sized firm, indicated by its diverse service offerings and the structured approach to benefits and career development. This size suggests established operational processes but also opportunities for influence and growth. Founded: Founded with a mission to "empower our people to impact communities by bringing clients’ visions to life," CESO emphasizes purpose-driven work and community impact. This suggests a culture that values service, integrity, and authenticity.

Team Structure:

• The design team likely comprises various levels of designers, drafters, and project managers, with a clear hierarchy for oversight and quality control (e.g., Team Leads, Project Managers).
• The Lead Designer will report to senior design staff or a Project Manager, working closely with Civil/SMEP engineers and potentially other discipline leads.
• Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, requiring designers to work with engineering teams, project managers, and potentially client representatives to ensure project success.

Methodology:

• The company emphasizes a structured approach to design delivery, with clear processes for concept development, drawing production, code compliance, and quality assurance (redlining, self-checks).
• Data-driven decision-making is implied through the need for code research and adherence to client/jurisdictional standards, suggesting a focus on accuracy and compliance.
• Workflow optimization is evident in the focus on efficient task prioritization, timely deadline management, and the use of integrated software like Autodesk Construction Cloud.

Company Website: cesoinc.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and diverse portfolio suggest an environment where operational roles like Lead Designer contribute directly to tangible community and client outcomes. The emphasis on "developing leaders" and "empowering our associates" signals a supportive culture for career advancement within operational functions.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Lead Designer" role represents a mid-level position within the design operations track. It signifies a step up from a Junior Designer, where individuals are expected to take more ownership of specific design tasks and components of projects, manage their workflow more independently, and contribute to quality control. It's a crucial stage for developing project management and technical leadership skills within design execution.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer typically reports to a Project Manager, Design Manager, or a Senior Lead Designer. This structure provides mentorship and oversight, ensuring alignment with project objectives and company standards. They will, in turn, likely guide or mentor junior designers on specific tasks.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is directly tied to the successful and efficient delivery of architectural designs. This includes ensuring designs are technically sound, compliant with regulations, coordinated with engineering disciplines, and completed on time and within budget constraints. Their work forms the foundational documentation for construction, directly influencing project feasibility, cost, and execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific project types (e.g., healthcare, retail) or software (e.g., advanced BIM workflows, parametric design).
• Project Management: Transition into roles with broader project responsibility, managing timelines, budgets, and client relationships.
• Leadership: Advance to Senior Lead Designer, Design Manager, or Principal Designer roles, overseeing larger teams and more complex projects.
• Cross-Disciplinary: Develop a deeper understanding of engineering disciplines to become a more integrated design leader.
• Professional Development: Leverage company-provided training, license reimbursement, and opportunities to pursue advanced certifications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead" title implies a stepping stone towards greater responsibility. The company's stated commitment to "developing leaders" suggests a structured approach to career progression, where operational excellence in a lead role can pave the way for management or specialized technical leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The mention of a "Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule" indicates a modern office environment that balances in-office collaboration with remote flexibility. This suggests a workplace designed for both focused individual work and team interaction.

Office Location(s): Rogers, Arkansas, is the primary specified location. This implies a regional hub for operations, serving clients within Arkansas and potentially surrounding areas, leveraging the company's diverse portfolio.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid nature encourages collaborative sessions in the office, likely featuring open-plan areas, meeting rooms equipped with technology for presentations and video conferencing, and dedicated workstations.
• The required software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud) means the office will be equipped with robust IT infrastructure and hardware capable of running these demanding applications.
• Opportunities for interaction with engineering teams and project managers are likely frequent, fostering a synergistic work environment where design and technical coordination are seamless.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is expected, with the flexibility to manage hours within a hybrid model. This allows for effective management of design tasks, code research, and coordination, while accommodating personal needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid Work Schedule" is a significant factor for operations roles. It implies a need for strong self-management, effective virtual communication, and structured in-office days dedicated to collaboration and critical tasks. The "Casual Dress Code" further suggests a less formal, more comfortable work environment conducive to focused design work.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the required software skills and educational background.
• Technical Interview: Likely involving a discussion of your past projects, design methodologies, and problem-solving approaches. You may be asked to walk through specific examples from your portfolio.
• Software Proficiency Assessment: Potential for a practical exercise or discussion to gauge your command of Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions focused on your ability to prioritize tasks, work under pressure, collaborate with teams, and interpret codes.
• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or the hiring manager to discuss career aspirations, cultural fit, and overall contribution potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your ability to produce detailed construction drawings, coordinate engineering systems, and apply code knowledge.
• Highlight Processes: For each project, briefly explain your design process, emphasizing how you approached challenges, managed coordination, and ensured compliance.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention project scale, complexity, or any efficiency gains you contributed through your design work.
• Software Showcase: Clearly indicate which software was used for each project and highlight your proficiency.
• Redline Example: If possible, include a sample of your redline mark-up process or a before/after example of how you incorporated feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical design challenge where you might need to outline your approach to a specific architectural problem, considering codes, coordination, and deadlines.
• Software Application: Understand how you would leverage specific software tools (Revit, AutoCAD) to address the challenge.
• Process Explanation: Be ready to articulate your workflow for task management, quality control, and interdisciplinary coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "self-check and review" and "redline mark-ups" suggests that the interview process will likely probe your attention to detail and quality assurance processes. A portfolio that clearly demonstrates these operational aspects will be highly advantageous.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM modeling, creating detailed architectural designs, and facilitating coordination. Proficiency expected for creating 2D and 3D construction drawings.
• AutoCAD: A foundational CAD tool, likely used for specific drafting tasks or legacy project compatibility.
• Bluebeam Revu: Crucial for document management, PDF creation, mark-up, and collaboration on construction documents. Expected for efficient redlining and review processes.
• Autodesk Construction Cloud: A cloud-based platform for project collaboration, document management, and workflow automation. Expected for seamless team and project integration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly stated for this role, design teams often use tools for project tracking and reporting on task completion, which may integrate with Autodesk Construction Cloud or project management software.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to the Lead Designer role, but an understanding of how design integrates with broader project management and client relationship management systems is beneficial.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specified software stack (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Construction Cloud) is standard for modern AEC firms. Proficiency here is not just about using the tools, but understanding how they enable efficient design delivery, collaboration, and quality control within project operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service & Impact: A commitment to "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients’ visions to life" means operations professionals are expected to contribute to meaningful outcomes.
• Integrity & Authenticity: Operating with strong ethical principles and transparency in all interactions.
• Leadership Development: A culture that actively fosters growth, skill enhancement, and career progression for its employees.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively across disciplines and with senior staff to achieve shared project goals.
• Efficiency & Quality: A focus on delivering accurate, compliant designs in a timely manner, with robust quality control processes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Close working relationships with engineering disciplines (Civil, Structural, MEP) are essential for successful project delivery.
• Mentorship & Guidance: The "Lead" designation implies a style of collaboration that involves guiding junior team members and receiving direction from senior staff.
• Feedback Loops: An environment where redlines and reviews are common, facilitating continuous improvement and ensuring accuracy.
• Service-Oriented: A mindset focused on serving both internal stakeholders (project managers, engineers) and external clients by bringing their visions to life through accurate and efficient design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and values suggest a culture that rewards not just technical skill but also a proactive, service-oriented approach to design delivery. Operations professionals who can demonstrate these values in their work will likely thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Excellence with Project Constraints: Effectively integrating creative design solutions within strict timelines, budgets, and regulatory requirements.
• Complex Coordination: Managing the integration of intricate Civil/SMEP engineering systems with architectural designs, requiring meticulous attention to detail and communication.
• Adherence to Evolving Codes: Staying current with and accurately interpreting a variety of building codes and jurisdictional standards across different project types.
• High-Pressure Environment: Consistently delivering high-quality work under tight deadlines, a common challenge in project-driven industries.
• Hybrid Work Management: Adapting to a hybrid work model, ensuring seamless communication, collaboration, and productivity across remote and in-office settings.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Deepening expertise in Revit, BIM, and potentially exploring new design technologies.
• Code Compliance Specialization: Becoming an expert in specific building codes relevant to the company's diverse project portfolio.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Developing skills in project planning, scheduling, and resource management.
• Cross-Disciplinary Understanding: Gaining a more comprehensive knowledge of engineering principles to enhance design coordination.
• Professional Licensure Support: Utilizing company reimbursement for professional licenses (e.g., Architect, NCIDQ) to advance career credentials.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the operational demands of the role, requiring individuals to be organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable. The growth opportunities align with advancing within the AEC industry, offering paths toward technical specialization or project leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process: "Describe your process for developing detailed architectural drawings from preliminary concepts, focusing on how you ensure accuracy and compliance." (Prepare to walk through a project from your portfolio.)
• Coordination Experience: "How have you managed the coordination of architectural designs with Civil/SMEP engineering systems in past projects? Provide a specific example." (Focus on communication and problem-solving.)
• Code Interpretation: "Walk me through a situation where you had to research and interpret a complex building code. How did you apply your findings to the design?" (Highlight your research and implementation skills.)
• Software Proficiency: "How do you leverage Revit/AutoCAD and Bluebeam Revu in your daily workflow to ensure efficiency and quality?" (Be ready to discuss specific features and applications.)
• Prioritization & Deadlines: "Describe a time you had to manage multiple high-priority tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and ensure all deliverables were met?" (Use the STAR method to outline your approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about CESO's diverse project portfolio (retail, hospitality, healthcare, etc.)?" (Research their recent projects.)
• "How do you align with CESO's mission of 'empowering our people to impact communities'?" (Connect your values and career aspirations to their mission.)
• "How do you approach collaboration in a hybrid work environment?" (Discuss your strategies for effective remote and in-office teamwork.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Tell me about this project": Be ready to give a concise overview of 2-3 key projects, focusing on your specific contributions, the design challenges, and the solutions.
• Demonstrate Technical Skill: Clearly show the detail and complexity of your drawings, highlighting your proficiency with CAD/BIM software.
• Showcase Coordination: If possible, include visuals or descriptions of how you integrated engineering elements or resolved coordination issues.
• Explain Your Process: For each project, briefly outline your workflow, from initial concept to final documentation, including quality control steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design talent, but also operational competence: efficiency, accuracy, coordination, and adherence to processes. Your portfolio should serve as tangible evidence of these capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Lever.co link.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to prominently feature projects that showcase your ability to produce detailed construction drawings, manage interdisciplinary coordination (especially Civil/SMEP), and apply code research. Ensure examples of your work with Revit, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam Revu are clearly visible.
• Resume Optimization: Highlight your 3+ years of experience in architectural design, explicitly mentioning your proficiency in CAD/BIM software, construction documents, and code interpretation. Use keywords from the job description, such as "design drafting techniques," "2D and 3D detailed construction drawings," and "project deadlines."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, coordination strategies, and problem-solving skills. Be ready to discuss how you ensure quality through self-checking and redlining. Prepare specific examples using the STAR method for behavioral questions.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CESO's diverse project portfolio and their mission statement. Understand their values related to service, impact, and leadership development to articulate your cultural fit during the interview.

⚠️ 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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