Lead Designer - Miami Studio

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer - Miami Studio

Company: OBMI MIAMI INC

Location: Coral Gables, FL, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Architecture & Design Operations

Date Posted: May 12, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the conceptual design vision and execution for high-profile international hospitality, resort, and mixed-use projects.

• Translate client needs, site constraints, and brand narratives into cohesive, compelling architectural solutions.

• Mentor junior and intermediate designers, fostering a collaborative studio culture and driving design excellence.

• Collaborate with studio leadership on design strategy, proposals, and business development initiatives.

• Ensure design intent is maintained through BIM workflows and construction administration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided job description is for a "Lead Designer - Miami Studio," the core responsibilities and required skills align with a senior architectural role focused on design leadership within a firm that delivers complex, large-scale international projects. This role can be categorized under "Architecture & Design Operations" due to its emphasis on process, project execution, team management, and the operational aspects of design delivery within a firm. The "Operations" aspect here refers to the systematic and strategic management of the design process and team to achieve project goals and business objectives, rather than traditional Revenue or Sales Operations.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead conceptual design development from initial sketches through to construction documentation, ensuring alignment with client vision and OBMI's design ethos.

• Develop and oversee the creation of compelling visual presentations, design packages, and drawing sets that clearly communicate design intent to stakeholders.

• Actively participate in and lead client meetings, design workshops, and presentations, articulating design rationale with confidence and clarity.

• Collaborate closely with Project Managers, technical teams, and external consultants to ensure design continuity and integrity across all project phases.

• Mentor and guide junior and intermediate designers, providing constructive feedback, fostering skill development, and contributing to studio-wide design reviews.

• Partner with Principals and Studio Directors on the development of design strategy, client proposals, and business development efforts.

• Review shop drawings and submittals during construction administration to ensure design compliance and assist in resolving technical challenges.

• Conduct site visits and provide construction administration support to verify design integrity during project implementation.

• Champion sustainable design principles and stay abreast of emerging trends in design technology and luxury hospitality experiences to elevate the firm's global portfolio.

• Contribute to the development of BIM workflows and ensure seamless integration of design intent within the documentation process.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been expanded to detail the full lifecycle of design leadership within an architectural practice, emphasizing the strategic and operational aspects of managing design from concept to construction. This includes client interaction, team mentorship, cross-functional collaboration, and ensuring technical accuracy and compliance.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• 12-14 years of professional architectural experience, with a proven track record of leading complex projects from concept through completion.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to lead conceptual design vision and translate complex ideas into executable architectural solutions.

• Expertise in hospitality, resort, and mixed-use project typologies.

• Proficiency in leading client presentations and effectively communicating design intent.

• Strong understanding of technical detailing and consultant coordination.

• Demonstrated experience in mentoring junior design staff and fostering team collaboration.

• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD.

• High proficiency in Rhino and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).

• Familiarity with BIM workflows and best practices for integrated project delivery.

• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and their application in architectural projects.

• Business acumen, including exposure to proposal development and client relationship management.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional licensure as an Architect (AIA, RIBA, ARB, or equivalent).

• Experience with Grasshopper for parametric design.

• Proficiency in Bluebeam for document collaboration and review.

• Experience with Enscape or other real-time rendering engines for design visualization.

• Exposure to master planning and interior design principles.

• Understanding of construction administration processes and site support.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications have been refined to reflect the seniority of the role, emphasizing the blend of creative leadership, technical expertise, and client-facing skills required for a Lead Designer in a global practice. Specific software proficiencies have been detailed, and licensure has been noted as preferred to align with industry standards for senior architectural roles.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• A curated portfolio showcasing a minimum of 12-14 years of design experience, with a strong emphasis on leadership roles in international hospitality, resort, and mixed-use projects.

• Demonstrations of conceptual design development, including ideation sketches, mood boards, and conceptual models.

• Examples of detailed design packages and construction documentation sets that highlight technical proficiency and clarity.

• Case studies illustrating successful client presentations and the ability to articulate design vision effectively.

• Evidence of collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and consultants, showcasing integrated design processes.

• Documentation of projects where sustainable design principles were integral to the design solution.

Process Documentation:

• Visualizations of design process workflows, from initial client brief to final design delivery.

• Examples of how design intent is translated and maintained through BIM models and documentation.

• Case studies detailing problem-solving approaches for complex design challenges encountered during project phases.

• Documentation of how OBMI's design standards and methodologies are applied to ensure consistency and quality across projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Portfolio requirements have been tailored to a Lead Designer role, specifying the need for evidence of leadership, conceptual strength, technical execution, and client engagement. Process documentation expectations focus on illustrating the systematic approach to design delivery and team management within an architectural context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company match.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick days, and holidays.

• Professional development opportunities, including continuing education and conference attendance.

• Potential for bonuses based on individual and company performance.

• Opportunities for international project involvement and travel.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time engagement is typically 40 hours per week. However, project demands may occasionally require extended hours to meet deadlines, with flexibility and project management support provided.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated based on the provided experience level (10+ years, with specific 12-14 year requirement), location (Coral Gables, FL), and the nature of the role (Lead Designer in a global architecture firm). Benefits have been inferred based on standard offerings for professional roles in architecture firms in the US.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Interior Design, Master Planning, with a specialization in luxury hospitality, resorts, private residences, and mixed-use destinations. OBMI operates globally, with a significant presence in the Middle East, Caribbean, and Latin America.

Company Size: OBMI is a well-established global practice with multiple studios. While specific numbers aren't provided, the mention of studios in Miami, London, and Dubai, along with a 90-year history, suggests a mid-to-large-sized firm with a substantial team of professionals. This size allows for robust project capabilities while maintaining a focused, collaborative studio environment.

Founded: Over 90 years ago. This long history signifies stability, deep expertise, and a well-honed design philosophy rooted in experience and a commitment to long-term value and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Miami studio operates as a key hub for international projects, likely comprising diverse teams of architects, designers, and support staff.

• The Lead Designer will report to Studio Directors or Principals, working closely with Project Managers who oversee day-to-day project execution and client liaison.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While creativity is paramount, OBMI emphasizes grounding design in land, culture, and emotion, suggesting a thoughtful, research-informed approach to site analysis, cultural context, and client needs.

• Holistic Experiential Environments: The firm focuses on creating cohesive, immersive spaces that balance imagination, craft, and care, indicating a process that integrates all design disciplines.

• Collaborative Process: Global collaboration across studios and with clients is a core methodology, ensuring diverse perspectives and shared expertise.

• Sustainability Focus: Consideration of sustainability is integrated into the design process, reflecting a commitment to responsible and forward-thinking architecture.

Company Website: https://obmi.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture section has been populated using information from the job description and general knowledge about established architectural firms. The emphasis is on how these aspects translate to the operations of the design team and the candidate's experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior or leadership level within the design function. As a Lead Designer, the individual is responsible for steering creative direction, managing design execution on key projects, and mentoring junior staff. This is a critical role in ensuring the quality and consistency of design output, directly impacting the firm's reputation and project success.

Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer will report to senior leadership within the Miami studio, likely Principals or Studio Directors. They will, in turn, lead and mentor junior and intermediate designers, project teams, and potentially collaborate closely with Project Managers. This structure allows for strategic oversight from leadership while empowering the Lead Designer to drive creative initiatives.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is significant and multifaceted:

• Design Excellence: Directly shapes the aesthetic and functional quality of high-profile international projects, influencing client satisfaction and market perception.

• Project Delivery: Ensures that design intent is translated accurately through documentation and construction, minimizing errors and rework.

• Team Development: Cultivates talent within the design team, enhancing the studio's overall capabilities and capacity for future projects.

• Business Development: Contributes to client relationships and proposal development, directly supporting the firm's growth and market position.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance to higher leadership roles such as Design Principal, Studio Director, or Global Practice Leader.

• Strategic Influence: Deeper involvement in firm-wide design strategy, business development, and the firm's overall creative direction.

• Portfolio Expansion: Opportunity to lead an even broader range of iconic international projects and expand expertise in new typologies or regions.

• Mentorship & Education: Continued opportunity to mentor emerging talent and contribute to the firm's knowledge base and design culture.

• Specialization: Potential to develop deeper expertise in specific areas like sustainable design, parametric design, or luxury hospitality trends.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section interprets the role's position within the firm's operational structure and outlines potential career trajectories, emphasizing the strategic and developmental aspects relevant to ambitious design professionals.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in the OBMI Miami studio, which will be an on-site position. This implies a physical office environment designed to foster collaboration and creativity.

Office Location(s): Coral Gables, Florida. This location offers a vibrant professional setting within the greater Miami area, known for its design community and access to international business networks.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The studio likely features open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and dedicated workstations designed to facilitate interaction and team-based work. The emphasis on collaboration suggests an environment where designers frequently share ideas, critique work, and engage in design charrettes.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Adobe Suite), potentially advanced visualization tools (Enscape), and BIM platforms will be fundamental to the workspace. This ensures designers have the necessary technological resources to execute complex projects.

• Team Interaction: The role involves daily interaction with junior designers, Project Managers, and studio leadership, fostering a dynamic and communicative work atmosphere. Opportunities for informal critiques and knowledge sharing are likely integral to the studio's culture.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, given the nature of leading complex international projects, flexibility may be required to meet critical deadlines. This might involve occasional late hours or weekend work, typical for senior roles in high-demand design firms, balanced by project planning and team support.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides context on the physical and collaborative aspects of the work environment, inferring details based on the "on-site" requirement and the nature of a design studio focused on international projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and portfolio to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with OBMI's design aesthetic and project types.

• Portfolio Presentation & Discussion: A session where you will present your portfolio, discussing your design process, leadership approach, and specific project contributions. Be prepared to articulate your conceptual thinking, technical solutions, and client engagement strategies.

• Technical & Conceptual Interview: Discussions with senior designers and Principals to delve deeper into your technical skills, design philosophy, problem-solving abilities, and understanding of hospitality and mixed-use design.

• Team Fit & Cultural Interview: Conversations with potential colleagues and studio leadership to assess your collaborative style, mentoring capabilities, and cultural alignment with OBMI's values.

• Final Interview: A meeting with key decision-makers to discuss role expectations, compensation, and career trajectory.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 5-7 of your strongest projects that best represent your leadership, conceptual abilities, technical expertise, and experience in hospitality/mixed-use design. Prioritize projects that demonstrate your ability to lead from concept through completion.

• Showcase Leadership: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, contributions, and design leadership. Use "I" statements for your direct actions and "we" for team efforts where applicable.

• Narrate Your Process: Walk through your design process, from initial concept development and ideation to problem-solving and technical detailing. Explain the rationale behind your design decisions.

• Highlight Impact: Quantify your achievements where possible. Discuss client satisfaction, project outcomes, and any measurable contributions to design quality or efficiency.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss your technical approach, software utilization (Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite), and how you ensure design intent is maintained through documentation and construction.

• Cultural Fit: Demonstrate your understanding of OBMI's ethos and how your design philosophy and collaborative style align with the company's values and global approach.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be presented with a hypothetical design challenge or a brief for a new project concept. Be ready to articulate your initial thoughts, conceptual approach, and potential strategies for tackling it.

• Problem-Solving: Prepare to discuss how you have resolved complex design or technical challenges on past projects. Focus on your analytical skills and innovative solutions.

• Mentorship & Collaboration: Be ready to discuss your approach to mentoring junior staff and collaborating with diverse teams and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides a structured approach to preparing for the application and interview process, with specific advice tailored to a Lead Designer role in an architecture firm, emphasizing portfolio presentation and understanding the firm's operational values.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for BIM modeling, documentation, and interdisciplinary coordination. Proficiency expected for leading complex projects.

• AutoCAD: Fundamental for 2D drafting and legacy project documentation.

• Rhino: Crucial for complex form-finding, conceptual modeling, and parametric design exploration.

• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign): Vital for high-quality visual presentations, conceptual renderings, and graphic communication of design intent.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Bluebeam Revu: Expected for efficient document review, markups, and collaboration on drawings and specifications, particularly during construction administration.

• Project Management Software (e.g., Autodesk Construction Cloud, Procore): While not explicitly stated, familiarity with platforms for managing project documentation, communication, and workflows is beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Design Visualization Tools (e.g., Enscape, Lumion, V-Ray): Experience with rendering engines for creating realistic visualizations to communicate design concepts to clients.

• Grasshopper (for Rhino): Preferred for parametric design, generative design, and complex geometric explorations, enabling advanced design solutions.

• BIM Collaboration Platforms: Understanding of how BIM models are shared and coordinated across teams and disciplines.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the essential and preferred technology stack for a Lead Designer, focusing on software used for design, visualization, documentation, and collaboration in architectural practice.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design Excellence: A relentless pursuit of high-quality, innovative, and thoughtful design solutions that create lasting value.

• Integrity & Craftsmanship: A commitment to meticulous detailing, expert execution, and delivering work that stands the test of time.

• Collaboration & Respect: Fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and teamwork is paramount.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for design outcomes, project delivery, and client satisfaction.

• Sustainability & Innovation: A forward-thinking approach that integrates environmental responsibility and embraces new technologies and design methodologies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Seamless collaboration between design disciplines (architecture, interiors, master planning) and technical teams to ensure a holistic project approach.

• Open Communication: Encouraging direct and honest feedback, design critiques, and knowledge sharing among team members.

• Client Partnership: Building strong, trust-based relationships with clients, acting as strategic advisors to guide them through the design process.

• Global Synergy: Leveraging the collective expertise of OBMI's international studios to bring diverse insights and best practices to each project.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the core values and collaboration styles expected within OBMI, framing them from an "operations" perspective of how these values influence daily work, decision-making, and team dynamics for design professionals.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Creative Vision with Practical Constraints: Navigating client expectations, budget limitations, site restrictions, and technical feasibility while maintaining a strong design concept.

• Leading Diverse Global Teams: Effectively communicating and collaborating with teams across different cultures, time zones, and professional backgrounds to achieve a unified design outcome.

• Staying Ahead of Design Trends and Technology: Continuously integrating new materials, sustainable practices, and digital tools into the design process to remain at the forefront of the industry.

• Managing Project Timelines and Deliverables: Ensuring timely delivery of high-quality design documentation and support, especially in fast-paced international projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Techniques: Opportunities to explore and implement advanced parametric design, generative design, and innovative visualization techniques.

• Sustainable Design Certification & Training: Pursuing certifications and advanced training in sustainable architecture and green building practices.

• Leadership Development: Participating in workshops and mentorship programs focused on leadership, business development, and strategic management within an architectural practice.

• Global Project Exposure: Gaining experience on a wide array of iconic international projects, broadening exposure to different cultural contexts and design challenges.

• Industry Engagement: Attending leading industry conferences, participating in design competitions, and contributing to architectural discourse.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section identifies potential challenges inherent in a senior design leadership role and outlines specific growth and development opportunities relevant to advancing within a global architectural firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you led a team through a challenging design phase. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on leadership, problem-solving, and team management.)

• "How do you translate a client's abstract brief or emotional aspirations into concrete architectural design elements?" (Highlight conceptualization, client empathy, and design storytelling.)

• "Walk us through your process for developing a compelling design presentation that resonates with international clients." (Emphasize clarity, visual communication, and persuasive articulation.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to OBMI's design philosophy and its portfolio of luxury hospitality projects?" (Demonstrate research into OBMI's work and values.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive design culture within a team?" (Relate to mentorship, feedback, and team dynamics.)

• "How do you approach integrating sustainability principles into your design process?" (Show your commitment to responsible design.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: Begin with an overview of OBMI and how your experience aligns. Then, present each project with a clear narrative: client brief, conceptual drivers, design development, key challenges and solutions, technical execution, and final outcome.

• Focus on Leadership: Clearly articulate your role as the Lead Designer on each project. Detail your contributions to the conceptual direction, design decisions, and team guidance.

• Visual Storytelling: Use high-quality renderings, diagrams, and key drawings. Explain what each visual represents and how it supports your narrative. Avoid overwhelming slides with text.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, mention project scale, budget implications, client feedback, or any measurable success factors related to your design leadership.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design choices, technical details, software workflows, and your problem-solving methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section offers targeted interview preparation advice, including sample strategy questions, company-specific inquiries, and a detailed portfolio presentation strategy, all tailored to the Lead Designer role and OBMI's context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

• Submit your CV and portfolio through the provided application link on ADP.

• Portfolio Customization: Curate your portfolio to prominently feature your most relevant experience in luxury hospitality, resort, and mixed-use projects, emphasizing your leadership and conceptual design capabilities. Ensure it highlights your ability to deliver projects from concept through completion.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your 12-14 years of experience, professional licensure (if applicable), proficiency in key software (Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite), and any experience in international project leadership and client presentations.

• Prepare Your Narrative: Practice presenting your portfolio, articulating your design process, leadership approach, and how your skills align with OBMI's design philosophy and project types. Be ready to discuss specific project challenges and solutions.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research OBMI's global projects, design ethos, and recent work. Understand their approach to sustainability, luxury design, and client relationships to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural fit.

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