Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer
Company: CESO, Inc.
Location: Charlotte, NC; Columbus, OH; Dallas, TX; Pittsburgh, PA; Phoenix, AZ; Cleveland, OH
Job Type: Regular Full Time
Category: Architecture & Design Operations
Date Posted: May 11, 2026
Experience Level: 3-5 Years
Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is central to the operational execution of architectural projects, focusing on the development and refinement of design documentation.
• The Lead Designer will be instrumental in translating client visions into tangible architectural plans, ensuring seamless integration of various engineering disciplines.
• This position requires a strong command of CAD/BIM software and a deep understanding of construction documents to support project delivery.
• The role involves a significant degree of responsibility in code research, design solution implementation, and quality control of architectural drawings.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Lead Designer," the responsibilities and requirements suggest a role that bridges design execution with operational project management within an architectural context. The focus on coordination with engineering systems and adherence to standards indicates a strong operational component, making it relevant for candidates with a background in operations that intersects with AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) workflows. The "Lead" aspect implies some autonomy and responsibility for quality assurance of design output.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop detailed, scaled architectural plans and construction drawings for building projects, translating preliminary concepts and design guidelines into executable designs.
• Independently create and prepare 2D and 3D detailed construction drawings using Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, with periodic guidance from senior staff.
• Research, interpret, and apply building codes and jurisdictional standards to design solutions, ensuring compliance for all projects.
• Review Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (SMEP) engineering drawings to ensure seamless coordination and integration with architectural design plans.
• Perform and manage redline mark-ups as directed by senior staff and project managers, ensuring all revisions are accurately incorporated.
• Conduct thorough self-checks and reviews of completed work and redlines, verifying correctness before submitting to Team Leads, Project Managers, or Quality Control.
• Prioritize and execute tasks efficiently in a high-pressure environment, consistently meeting project deadlines and client expectations.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of design processes and workflows within the operations team.
• Assist in the development of project-specific design standards and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design execution and project operational oversight. The emphasis on "independent role," "self-check," and "prioritize and execute tasks" suggests a need for proactive problem-solving and workflow management, common in operations roles. The coordination with SMEP drawings is a critical operational aspect of architectural project delivery.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in architectural design and project support is required.

Required Skills:

• CAD/BIM Proficiency: Expert-level command of Revit and/or AutoCAD is essential for creating detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings.
• Design Software: Proficient knowledge and application of Bluebeam Revu for document review and markup, Autodesk Construction Cloud for collaboration, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator for design visualization and presentation.
• Architectural Drawing Sets: Strong understanding and ability to produce comprehensive architectural drawing sets compliant with industry standards.
• Code Interpretation: Demonstrated ability to research, interpret, and apply building codes and jurisdictional requirements to design solutions.
• SMEP Coordination: Working knowledge of civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical (SMEP) systems and the ability to coordinate architectural designs with these disciplines.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Microsoft Outlook for email and calendar management, and general familiarity with the MS Office Suite for daily tasks.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with 3D modeling and advanced graphics techniques.
• Familiarity with retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, or worship facility design projects.
• Understanding of construction documentation workflows and project lifecycle management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills for design challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, ACC, Adobe Suite) is a critical operational requirement for efficient design delivery. This section is tailored to highlight the technical skills necessary for seamless integration into the company's design operations workflow. The experience level suggests an individual ready to take on more responsibility and contribute to process improvements.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong understanding of architectural design processes from concept to construction documentation.
• Showcase examples of detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings produced using Revit and/or AutoCAD.
• Include case studies highlighting successful coordination with SMEP engineering disciplines.
• Present projects that reflect adherence to building codes and jurisdictional standards.
• Highlight experience with collaborative design platforms like Autodesk Construction Cloud.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of personal workflow optimization for design tasks, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.
• Showcase experience in reviewing and marking up construction documents, demonstrating attention to detail.
• Illustrate how you've contributed to or improved design process documentation in previous roles.
• Include examples of how you ensure quality control and accuracy in your design deliverables.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a "Lead Designer" role with operational responsibilities, a portfolio demonstrating process adherence, efficiency, and quality control is crucial. This section outlines expectations for candidates to showcase not just design output, but also their understanding and application of efficient design workflows and documentation standards, which are key to successful operations.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided overall salary band is $60,997 - $104,549 annually.
• Location-Specific Ranges:
  • Cleveland, OH: $64,386 - $76,468
  • Charlotte, NC: $67,775 - $80,493
  • Columbus, OH: $64,386 - $76,468
  • Dallas, TX: $71,163 - $84,518
  • Phoenix, AZ: $67,775 - $80,493
  • Pittsburgh, PA: $67,775 - $80,493
• This range accounts for the Lead Designer role's responsibilities, the required experience level, and geographical cost of living variations. Actual compensation will be determined based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the location of employment.

Benefits:

• Work Arrangement: Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule options.
• Time Off: Paid Time Off (100% upfront), Paid Holidays, and Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events.
• Retirement: 401K with a Company Match.
• Professional Development: Training and Development programs, Reimbursement for Professional Licenses.
• Health & Wellness: Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage; Employee Assistance Program; Company Paid Bonding and Recovery.
• Additional Perks: Welcome Box, Casual Dress Code, Employee Events (lunches, outings), Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term/Long-Term Disability.

Working Hours:

• The role is full-time, with an expected 40 hours per week. The hybrid work schedule offers flexibility in balancing on-site and remote workdays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges provided are based on the specified location-specific data and the overall band. The methodology involves using the provided ranges for each city as the primary benchmark, with the overall band serving as a broader context. Benefits are extensive and detailed, reflecting a comprehensive package designed to attract and retain talent in the competitive AEC industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Services. CESO, Inc. serves a diverse portfolio including retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, and worship sectors, indicating a broad market presence and varied project typologies. Company Size: The company size is not explicitly stated, but the mention of multiple office locations and a comprehensive benefits package suggests a medium to large-sized organization with established operational structures. Founded: The founding date is not provided, but the company's established presence across multiple cities and diverse project portfolio implies a history of steady growth and development.

Team Structure:

• The Lead Designer is likely part of a larger architectural or design department, potentially within a project delivery division.
• This role may involve direct reporting to a Senior Designer, Project Manager, or Design Director, with collaboration across various engineering disciplines (Civil, Structural, MEP).
• Cross-functional collaboration is key, involving internal design teams, project management, quality control, and potentially client liaisons.

Methodology:

• CESO emphasizes a principle-centered organization with strong service values, integrity, and authenticity, suggesting a culture that values client relationships and ethical practices.
• The mission "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients’ visions to life" points to a service-oriented approach focused on client satisfaction and community impact through design.
• The company fosters leadership development and empowerment, encouraging associates to use their skills to positively impact the world.

Company Website: [Not provided in input, assume CESO, Inc. has a public website for further research]

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's mission and values highlight a strong service-oriented culture within the AEC industry. For operations professionals, this means a focus on client satisfaction, quality delivery, and potentially community engagement tied to projects. The diverse project portfolio suggests adaptability and broad operational experience.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Lead Designer" role is positioned at an intermediate to senior level within the design operations function of an architectural firm. It requires a strong technical foundation combined with the ability to manage design tasks independently, coordinate with multiple disciplines, and ensure quality output, signaling a step towards project leadership and mentorship. Reporting Structure: The Lead Designer typically reports to a Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, or Design Director. They may also coordinate with discipline leads for Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (SMEP) engineering, fostering cross-functional operational alignment. Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's operations impact is directly tied to the efficiency, accuracy, and timeliness of design documentation. Successful execution by the Lead Designer ensures projects stay on schedule, within budget (by minimizing costly design errors), and meet client expectations, directly contributing to CESO's reputation and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific software (e.g., advanced Revit workflows, BIM management) or project typologies (e.g., healthcare design standards).
• Project Leadership: Transition into roles like Project Manager or Senior Designer, taking on greater responsibility for project scope, client interaction, and team management.
• Mentorship: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior designers and interns, contributing to the operational training pipeline.
• Process Improvement: Contribute to the refinement of design workflows, standards, and technology adoption within the operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear pathway for career progression within a design-focused operational framework. The "Lead" title suggests an opportunity to influence operational processes and mentor others, aligning with typical career aspirations for experienced professionals seeking to expand their scope beyond individual contribution.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The company offers a "Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule," indicating a modern office environment that supports a blend of remote and in-office work. This suggests a focus on employee well-being and productivity, with an understanding that not all work requires constant physical presence. Office Location(s): Multiple locations across Charlotte, NC; Columbus, OH; Dallas, TX; Pittsburgh, PA; Phoenix, AZ; and Cleveland, OH. This wide geographic distribution implies a significant operational footprint and potential for collaboration across different regional teams.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model suggests a need for effective communication and collaboration tools to ensure seamless teamwork between on-site and remote team members. Expect a dynamic workspace where design reviews and team meetings are common.
• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Autodesk Construction Cloud, Adobe Suite) is a given, supporting efficient workflow and project delivery.
• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with design teams, project managers, and potentially engineers will be frequent, fostering a shared understanding of project goals and operational challenges.

Work Schedule:

• Standard full-time (40 hours/week) with a hybrid arrangement. This offers flexibility, allowing operations professionals to manage their time effectively while ensuring project demands are met. The "Casual Dress Code" further contributes to a comfortable and adaptable work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model and casual dress code point to a company culture that values employee comfort and work-life balance, which can be a significant factor for operations professionals managing complex project schedules and demanding workflows. The distributed office locations suggest a robust operational infrastructure for managing remote teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications against the role requirements.
• Technical Interview: Likely to involve discussions about your experience with Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and other relevant software, potentially including a live demonstration or a take-home exercise.
• Design/Operations Challenge: You may be asked to present a case study from your portfolio, detailing your process, problem-solving approach, and the operational impact of your design decisions. This could involve explaining how you managed coordination with engineering systems or ensured code compliance.
• Team/Hiring Manager Interview: Focus on cultural fit, collaboration style, and how you handle pressure and deadlines, with an emphasis on your operational approach to design challenges.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss your long-term career aspirations and fit within CESO's broader operational strategy.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by showcasing specific skills (e.g., a section on BIM coordination, another on code compliance).
• Detail: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the design challenges, your specific contributions, the software used, and the outcome. Emphasize any process improvements you implemented or efficient workflows you followed.
• Operations Focus: Highlight how your design work supports project operational goals—e.g., minimizing errors through thorough coordination, ensuring constructability, or meeting client timelines.
• Visuals: Use high-quality renderings, 2D drawings, and BIM models to showcase your technical abilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Software Proficiency: Be prepared for practical exercises or in-depth questions about your proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
• Code & Coordination: Brush up on common building codes and best practices for coordinating architectural designs with SMEP engineering.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Think about how you would approach common design challenges, focusing on your process, decision-making, and communication strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, evaluating both technical design skills and operational aptitude. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their ability to manage design tasks efficiently, collaborate effectively, and contribute to project success through sound operational practices within design.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Core BIM software for architectural design, modeling, and documentation. Expect questions on advanced features, family creation, and template management.
• AutoCAD: Essential for 2D drafting and compatibility with older project files or specific client requirements.
• Bluebeam Revu: Critical for efficient PDF markup, collaboration, and document management in construction workflows. Proficiency in its collaborative features is key.
• Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): Used for project collaboration, document management, and workflow automation. Understanding its role in the AEC project lifecycle is important.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not directly a reporting role, understanding how design decisions impact project timelines and budgets is crucial. Familiarity with project management software that tracks design progress and resource allocation may be beneficial.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design documentation integrates with broader project management and client relationship management systems is an operational advantage.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is critical for operations professionals as it details the technology stack. Proficiency in these tools is not just about using them, but understanding how they facilitate efficient workflows, collaboration, and data management within the AEC operational context. The inclusion of Autodesk Construction Cloud highlights a focus on modern, integrated project delivery.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service & Integrity: CESO emphasizes being principle-centered, valuing strong service values, integrity, and authenticity. This means a focus on client satisfaction, ethical conduct, and reliable project delivery.
• Empowerment & Leadership: The mission to "empower our people to impact communities" suggests a culture that encourages initiative, skill development, and leadership at all levels.
• Collaboration & Impact: The focus on "bringing clients’ visions to life" and "positively impact the world through service" highlights a collaborative ethos geared towards achieving tangible outcomes and making a difference.
• Efficiency & Quality: As a design operations role, there's an implicit value placed on producing high-quality, accurate deliverables efficiently, ensuring projects run smoothly.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect a collaborative environment where designers work closely with engineers (Civil, Structural, MEP), project managers, and quality control teams to ensure cohesive project execution.
• Process Improvement Culture: The emphasis on leadership and empowerment suggests an openness to feedback and suggestions for improving design workflows and operational efficiencies.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouragement of learning and development points to a culture where sharing best practices and technical expertise is valued, fostering continuous improvement across the team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at CESO appears to be one that balances professional excellence with a strong sense of purpose and community impact. For operations professionals, this translates to a work environment that values collaboration, continuous learning, and a commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes for clients and communities.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Creativity with Operational Constraints: The primary challenge will be translating creative design visions into constructible solutions that meet strict code requirements, budget limitations, and project timelines.
• Coordinating Complex Engineering Systems: Effectively integrating architectural designs with Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (SMEP) systems requires meticulous attention to detail and strong communication with specialized engineering teams.
• Managing Multiple Projects and Deadlines: In a fast-paced environment, prioritizing tasks, managing time effectively, and meeting demanding project deadlines will be a constant challenge.
• Adapting to Evolving Technologies: Staying current with the latest CAD/BIM software updates and industry best practices in digital design and collaboration is essential.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & CAD Skills: Opportunities to master advanced features in Revit, AutoCAD, and other design software, potentially leading to BIM management or specialist roles.
• Project Management Fundamentals: Gaining exposure to project management principles through close collaboration with Project Managers, paving the way for future project leadership roles.
• Industry Best Practices: Learning from senior designers and engineers about best practices in architectural design, code compliance, and interdisciplinary coordination within the AEC sector.
• Cross-Disciplinary Knowledge: Expanding understanding of Civil, Structural, and MEP engineering to enhance coordination capabilities and design holism.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines potential hurdles and the supportive environment for overcoming them. By framing challenges as growth opportunities, it appeals to ambitious operations professionals who are motivated by problem-solving and continuous skill enhancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Problem Solving: "Describe a complex architectural design challenge you faced on a project and how you used Revit/AutoCAD to solve it. What was your process for coordinating with engineers?" Focus on your systematic approach, problem-solving methodology, and how you leveraged technology.
• Collaboration & Coordination: "How do you ensure effective communication and coordination between architectural design and MEP/Structural engineers? Provide an example of a time you identified a potential conflict early on and how you resolved it." Prepare to discuss your communication strategies and proactive problem-solving.
• Operational Efficiency: "How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects with competing deadlines? Describe a time you improved a design workflow or documentation process to increase efficiency." Be ready to showcase your time management skills and contributions to operational improvements.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Values Alignment: "What interests you about CESO's mission to 'empower our people to impact communities'? How do you see your role contributing to this?" Research CESO's projects and values, and prepare to articulate how your work aligns with their service-oriented approach.
• Team Dynamics: "How do you approach working within a hybrid team environment? Describe your ideal collaborative relationship with project managers and engineering disciplines." Discuss your adaptability and experience with collaborative workflows.
• Impact Measurement: "How do you measure the success of your design work beyond aesthetic appeal? What metrics are important to you in evaluating project delivery?" Focus on aspects like accuracy, adherence to standards, and contribution to project milestones.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative: For each project, tell a story that highlights the problem, your solution, the process, and the outcome. Clearly define your role and contributions.
• Process Demonstration: Show how you achieved the results. Highlight your use of software, your coordination efforts, and any process efficiencies you implemented. Use redlines or BIM models to illustrate your workflow.
• Metrics & Impact: Quantify your achievements where possible (e.g., "reduced coordination issues by X%," "met all deadlines for Y phase"). Demonstrate how your work contributed to operational success and client satisfaction.
• Tailoring: Be prepared to discuss how your experience and portfolio align with CESO's specific project types (retail, hospitality, healthcare, etc.).

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation for this role requires demonstrating not only design talent but also operational acumen. Candidates should be ready to discuss their process, efficiency, and collaborative skills, using concrete examples from their portfolio to illustrate their capabilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on jobs.lever.co.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your professional portfolio to highlight projects that showcase your proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Autodesk Construction Cloud. Emphasize your experience with architectural drawing sets, code research, and SMEP coordination. Include examples of your process for ensuring design accuracy and efficiency.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3+ years of relevant experience, specifically mentioning your skills in CAD/BIM software, architectural design, and project support. Quantify achievements where possible, focusing on contributions to project timelines, accuracy, and coordination efforts.
• Interview Preparation: Practice presenting your portfolio, focusing on your design process, problem-solving skills, and how you manage operational aspects of design delivery. Prepare to discuss your experience with hybrid work environments and your understanding of CESO's mission and values.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CESO, Inc.'s project portfolio, company culture, and mission. Understand the types of projects they undertake (retail, hospitality, healthcare, etc.) and be prepared to articulate how your skills and experience align with their operational needs and values.

⚠️ 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.