Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer

Company: CESO, Inc.

Location: Minneapolis, MN

Job Type: Regular Full Time

Category: Architectural Design Operations

Date Posted: February 24, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (3-5 Years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is pivotal in developing comprehensive architectural building project designs, requiring a strong understanding of design and drafting techniques, and the ability to coordinate complex engineering systems.

• The Lead Designer will independently prepare detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings using advanced CAD/BIM software, translating preliminary concepts and client guidelines into actionable blueprints.

• A key aspect of this position involves meticulous code research and implementation, ensuring all designs comply with company, client, and jurisdictional standards.

• The role demands effective collaboration with senior staff, project managers, and quality control teams to review and refine architectural plans, ensuring accuracy and coordination across all disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Lead Designer," the responsibilities and experience requirements (3+ years) suggest a mid-level to senior individual contributor role rather than a direct management position. The emphasis on "independent role with supervision and guidance by more senior staff" indicates a growth-oriented position where the individual is expected to take ownership of design tasks while still learning from experienced professionals. The operations aspect of this role lies in the efficient and accurate execution of design processes, system coordination, and adherence to project timelines and quality standards within the broader architectural project lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop detailed, scaled architectural plans for building construction projects, translating preliminary concepts, sketches, and design guidelines into precise construction documents.

• Design and prepare comprehensive 2D and 3D detailed construction drawings and designs utilizing Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, with regular oversight from senior design staff.

• Conduct thorough research and interpretation of building codes, zoning regulations, and other applicable standards, applying design solutions that ensure full compliance with company, client, and jurisdictional requirements.

• Proactively review Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (CSMEP) engineering drawings to ensure seamless coordination and integration with architectural design plans, identifying and resolving potential conflicts.

• Execute redline mark-ups and revisions on drawings as directed by senior staff, demonstrating an understanding of architectural standards and project requirements.

• Perform self-checks and thorough reviews of completed work and redlines, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and adherence to project specifications before submitting for further review by Team Leads, Project Managers, or the Quality Control team.

• Effectively prioritize and manage multiple design tasks in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment, ensuring timely delivery of project deliverables without compromising quality.

• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and standards within the team.

• Perform other design and drafting-related duties as assigned to support project objectives and team goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of independent design execution and collaborative review, typical for a "Lead Designer" in a growing firm. The emphasis on reviewing engineering drawings and performing self-checks points to a role that requires attention to detail and an understanding of how architectural design integrates with other project disciplines. This role is operational in nature, focusing on the systematic production of design documentation that meets project requirements, codes, and client expectations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Architectural Design & Drafting: Proven ability to develop detailed scaled plans for building construction projects using design and drafting techniques.

• CAD/BIM Proficiency: Expert-level working knowledge and hands-on experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, specifically Revit and/or AutoCAD.

• Construction Document Interpretation: Ability to read, understand, and interpret complex construction documents, including architectural drawings, specifications, and engineering plans.

• Code Research & Application: Strong understanding of building codes and zoning regulations, with the ability to research, interpret, and implement compliant design solutions.

• Software Proficiency: Proficient knowledge and daily use of essential design and collaboration tools, including Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator.

• Project Prioritization: Demonstrated ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment to meet project deadlines.

• Collaboration & Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective interaction with senior staff, project teams, and clients.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with project management software or task tracking systems.

• Familiarity with specific industry sectors relevant to CESO's portfolio (e.g., retail, hospitality, healthcare, light industrial).

• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and certifications (e.g., LEED).

• Experience with 3D modeling and rendering software beyond core BIM/CAD tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize technical proficiency in core design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam) and a solid understanding of architectural documentation and building codes. The mention of "coordination of complex civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing and electrical engineering systems" implies that candidates should have a broad awareness of these disciplines and how they interact with architectural design, even if they are not performing engineering tasks themselves. This combination of technical skill and interdisciplinary awareness is crucial for operational efficiency in design projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Process Documentation: Showcase examples of your design process, from initial concept development and schematic design through to detailed construction documentation. Highlight your approach to translating client visions into tangible design solutions.

• CAD/BIM Project Examples: Include a minimum of two to three significant project examples where you were instrumental in creating detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings using Revit and/or AutoCAD. Clearly define your role and contributions.

• Coordination & Integration: Present a case study or project excerpt demonstrating your ability to coordinate architectural designs with Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (CSMEP) engineering drawings. Illustrate how you identified and resolved interdisciplinary conflicts.

• Code Compliance Examples: Provide evidence of your ability to research and apply building codes and jurisdictional standards. This could be a section of a drawing set demonstrating specific code compliance or a brief explanation of a complex code challenge you successfully navigated.

Process Documentation:

• Documented examples of your workflow for producing construction drawings, including stages of drafting, redlining, self-review, and final submission.

• Evidence of your process for researching and interpreting building codes and regulations for design application.

• Examples of how you utilize software like Bluebeam Revu for mark-ups, collaboration, and quality control checks.

• Demonstrations of your system for organizing project files and ensuring version control within a CAD/BIM environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Lead Designer" role, a portfolio is critical for demonstrating practical application of skills. The focus should be on the operational aspects of design: how efficiently and accurately designs are produced, how coordination is managed, and how compliance is ensured. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their process and explain their decision-making in their portfolio pieces, highlighting their understanding of project workflows and architectural documentation standards.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated Range: $68,426 - $81,267 annually (Minneapolis, MN)

• Broader Company Range: $58,651 - $100,528 annually

• Note: The provided salary ranges are based on the company's stated typical new hire pay ranges for Minneapolis, MN, and the broader stated pay band. Actual compensation will be determined by factors including candidate experience, education, skills, and internal equity, benchmarked against industry and market data.

Benefits:

• Work-Life Balance:

  • Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Generous Paid Time Off (credited 100% upfront)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events

• Financial & Retirement:

  • 401K with a Company Match
  • Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term Disability
  • Long-Term Disability
  • Company Paid Bonding and Recovery

• Health & Wellness:

  • Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage
  • Employee Assistance Program

• Professional Development & Recognition:

  • Training and Development opportunities to foster professional growth
  • Reimbursement for Professional Licenses
  • Rewards and Recognition Program

• Workplace Experience:

  • Welcome Box upon hiring
  • Casual Dress Code

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time position, estimated at 40 hours per week. The hybrid work schedule offers flexibility in structuring the work week between office and remote locations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range for Minneapolis is provided as a specific estimate based on the company's disclosure. The broader range indicates potential variability. The benefits package is extensive, with particular emphasis on work-life balance and professional development, which are attractive to operations professionals seeking a supportive work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) services, with a diverse portfolio spanning retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, and worship sectors.

Company Size: CESO is a growing organization, likely employing between 50-250 individuals, fostering a culture that balances structured processes with a more personal, team-oriented atmosphere.

Founded: Founded in 1994, CESO has a solid history of delivering client visions, suggesting a stable and experienced organization committed to its mission.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer likely operates within a project-based team structure, reporting to a Project Manager or a Senior Design Lead.

• Collaboration is expected across various disciplines, including civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineering teams, as well as with construction professionals.

Methodology:

• CESO emphasizes a principle-centered approach with strong service values, integrity, and authenticity, which translates into their operational methodologies.

• The company focuses on "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients’ visions to life," indicating a process that prioritizes client satisfaction and community impact.

• Operations within design teams likely involve structured project management, adherence to design standards, and continuous improvement cycles for efficiency and quality.

Company Website: [CESO Inc. Website - Assuming based on domain_derived: cesoinc.com]

📝 Enhancement Note: CESO's mission and values suggest a culture that values service, integrity, and professional development. For an operations role like Lead Designer, this means a focus on delivering high-quality work efficiently, with an emphasis on teamwork and ethical practices. The diverse industry portfolio means designers will encounter varied project challenges and regulatory environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Lead Designer" position is positioned as a mid-level to senior individual contributor role. It represents a step up from an entry-level designer, requiring independent task execution and a growing understanding of project coordination and code compliance. It serves as a stepping stone for further specialization or advancement into senior design, project management, or technical leadership roles within the firm.

Reporting Structure:

• The Lead Designer typically reports to a Project Manager, Senior Designer, or a Director of Design.

Operations Impact:

• The Lead Designer directly impacts project success by ensuring the timely and accurate production of construction documents.

• Efficient and compliant designs reduce costly RFI's (Requests for Information), change orders, and project delays, thereby contributing to client satisfaction and the company's profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Develop deeper expertise in specific software (e.g., advanced Revit modeling, BIM management) or architectural disciplines.

• Project Leadership: Progress to Senior Designer or Project Architect roles, taking on greater responsibility for design direction and client management on larger or more complex projects.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Gain broader knowledge of engineering systems and construction processes, enhancing one's ability to manage complex projects holistically.

• Mentorship: Opportunity to mentor junior designers, developing leadership and coaching skills.

• Professional Development: Utilize company-provided training and license reimbursement to pursue advanced certifications or specialized coursework.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead Designer" title implies a path for growth. Candidates should view this role as an opportunity to solidify their technical skills, gain project experience across diverse sectors, and demonstrate leadership potential for future career advancement within CESO's operational framework.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a Hybrid Work Schedule, indicating a blend of in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility. This suggests a modern work environment that values both team synergy and individual productivity.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Minneapolis, MN, providing access to a vibrant professional community and amenities. Specific office location details would be provided during the interview process.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model promotes collaborative sessions in the office, likely with dedicated spaces for team meetings, design reviews, and brainstorming.

• Technology & Tools: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Autodesk Construction Cloud) and necessary hardware is expected, supporting efficient design operations.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with project managers, senior designers, engineers, and quality control teams are integral to the design process and professional development.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week is complemented by a flexible and hybrid schedule, allowing employees to balance work and personal commitments effectively. This flexibility is crucial for managing design tasks that may require focused, uninterrupted periods of work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work environment is a significant aspect of this role, requiring self-discipline and effective communication to maintain productivity and team cohesion. It reflects a contemporary approach to workplace operations that prioritizes employee well-being alongside project delivery.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application, focusing on your experience with CAD/BIM software, architectural design, and code compliance.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: This stage will likely involve a detailed review of your portfolio. Be prepared to walk through specific projects, explain your design process, highlight your contributions, and demonstrate how you managed coordination and code compliance. Expect technical questions related to Revit, AutoCAD, and Bluebeam.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Interviews with hiring managers and potential team leads will assess your problem-solving skills, ability to work under pressure, collaboration style, and cultural fit within CESO's principle-centered organization.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership to discuss your career aspirations and alignment with the company's mission and values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Showcase 2-3 of your strongest projects that best demonstrate your skills in architectural design, CAD/BIM proficiency, and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Define Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially in areas of design development, drafting, and coordination. Use phrases like "I was responsible for..." or "My contribution included..."

• Highlight Process: For each project, briefly explain your design process, including how you interpreted client requirements, researched codes, and coordinated with engineering disciplines.

• Quantify Impact (if possible): If you can, mention any positive outcomes related to your design work, such as efficiency improvements, successful code approvals, or positive client feedback.

• Technical Clarity: Ensure drawings are legible and well-organized. Be prepared to discuss the software and techniques used.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design exercises or problem-solving scenarios related to architectural challenges, code interpretation, or coordination issues.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating how you would approach a given problem from a design operations perspective.

• Research CESO's project portfolio and recent news to understand their current work and identify potential areas of interest or alignment for discussion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process will heavily scrutinize practical design skills and operational efficiency. A well-prepared portfolio that clearly outlines the candidate's process and contributions is paramount. Expect questions that probe not just what you did, but how you did it and why, reflecting an emphasis on sound design operations.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Design Software:

• Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), parametric design, creating intelligent models, and generating construction documents. Proficiency in creating families, managing project files, and utilizing BIM workflows is key.

• AutoCAD: Foundational for 2D drafting and design, often used for legacy projects or specific detailing tasks. Experience with command-line operations, layer management, and drawing setup is expected.

• Bluebeam Revu: Critical for document review, mark-ups, collaboration, and quality control. Candidates should be comfortable with its markup tools, compare features, and PDF management capabilities.

Supporting Design & Collaboration Tools:

• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Increasingly important for cloud-based project collaboration, document management, and workflow automation within the AEC industry. Familiarity with its platform is advantageous.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator): Used for graphic presentations, rendering enhancements, and creating visual assets for proposals or client communication.

General Productivity Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard proficiency in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for daily tasks, reporting, and presentations.

• Microsoft Outlook: For email correspondence and calendar management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Mastery of Revit and AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Proficiency with Bluebeam Revu is also a core requirement for efficient design review and collaboration. Understanding how these tools integrate within a broader project management system like Autodesk Construction Cloud demonstrates an operational awareness of modern AEC workflows.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Authenticity: Upholding high ethical standards in all design work and client interactions, ensuring transparency and honesty in project execution.

• Service Excellence: A commitment to serving coworkers, clients, and communities by delivering high-quality architectural solutions that meet and exceed expectations.

• Empowerment & Impact: A belief in empowering individuals to utilize their skills to make a positive impact, aligning personal growth with client success and community benefit.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse talents are leveraged, and cross-functional teams work cohesively towards common project goals.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing a mindset of learning and adaptation, seeking opportunities to refine processes, enhance skills, and improve project outcomes.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with engineering disciplines and project management to ensure seamless integration of architectural designs with other project components.

• Open Feedback Culture: Encouraging constructive feedback exchange among team members to identify areas for improvement in design quality and process efficiency.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, technical insights, and lessons learned to elevate the collective expertise of the design team.

• Client-Centric Approach: Maintaining a focus on understanding and fulfilling client needs throughout the design and development process.

📝 Enhancement Note: CESO's stated values (principle-centered, service values, integrity, authenticity) suggest a workplace culture that values ethical conduct, client focus, and collaborative problem-solving. For a Lead Designer, this translates to a work environment where attention to detail, reliable execution, and effective teamwork are highly valued operational principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Project Types: Adapting design approaches and code interpretations across CESO's varied project portfolio (retail, hospitality, healthcare, etc.) requires broad knowledge and flexibility.

• Balancing Design Vision with Technical Constraints: Effectively translating creative design concepts into buildable solutions that meet budget, schedule, and technical engineering requirements.

• Navigating Complex Code Requirements: Staying abreast of and accurately applying intricate building codes and zoning regulations specific to different project typologies and jurisdictions.

• Effective Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Ensuring seamless communication and integration with multiple engineering disciplines and construction teams, often with competing priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit, BIM management, or explore new design technologies through company-sponsored training.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional licenses (e.g., RA) and pursuing relevant certifications.

• Project Exposure: Gaining exposure to a wide range of project types and complexities, building a comprehensive understanding of architectural operations across different sectors.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from experienced senior designers and project managers to develop leadership and strategic thinking skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to tackle diverse design challenges and expand technical expertise. The key is to view these challenges not as obstacles, but as avenues for professional growth and development within a structured operational framework.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing architectural drawings from preliminary concepts to final construction documents. How do you ensure accuracy and coordination?" (Focus on your workflow, use of CAD/BIM, and review processes.)

• "Walk me through a project where you had to coordinate architectural design with complex engineering systems (MEP, Structural, Civil). What were the key challenges, and how did you resolve them?" (Highlight your interdisciplinary awareness and problem-solving approach.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What appeals to you about CESO's mission and values, particularly 'empowering our people to impact communities'?" (Connect your personal values to the company's ethos and demonstrate your understanding of their operational philosophy.)

• "How do you approach collaboration within a hybrid work environment and with diverse project teams?" (Discuss your communication strategies and teamwork skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by demonstrating specific skills (e.g., a section on BIM modeling, a section on code compliance).

• Narrative: For each project, craft a compelling story that outlines the client's needs, your design approach, your specific contributions, and the outcome.

• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, clear drawings, and concise annotations. Ensure your CAD/BIM outputs are presented professionally.

• Process Focus: Be ready to discuss the operational aspects of your work – the tools you used, the steps you took, how you collaborated, and how you ensured quality and efficiency.

• Conciseness: Be mindful of time during presentations. Focus on the most impactful aspects of your work and be prepared to answer specific questions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design talent, but also operational competence. Candidates need to articulate their processes, highlight their technical proficiency, and show how they contribute to efficient and high-quality project delivery within CESO's collaborative and values-driven environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, architectural design for diverse project types, and code compliance. Ensure your portfolio is readily accessible and showcases your best work relevant to CESO's sectors.

• Resume Optimization: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Managed design documentation for X projects totaling Y square feet"). Use keywords from the job description to align with ATS scanning.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, coordination strategies, and problem-solving skills using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Prepare specific examples for common interview questions related to operations, collaboration, and technical proficiency.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review CESO's website, project portfolio, and mission statement. Understand their approach to client service, community impact, and their core values to demonstrate alignment during interviews.

⚠️ 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.