Lead Designer

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Lead Designer Company: CESO, Inc. Location: Dallas, TX; Columbus, OH Job Type: Regular Full Time Category: Architecture & Design Operations Date Posted: 2026-05-11 Experience Level: Mid-Senior Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design development of comprehensive architectural building projects, ensuring seamless integration of civil, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineering systems.
• Drive the creation of detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings and models utilizing advanced CAD and BIM software, adhering to preliminary concepts and design guidelines.
• Conduct thorough research and interpretation of building codes, implementing compliant design solutions while upholding company, client, and jurisdictional standards.
• Critically review Civil/SMEP drawings to ensure robust coordination and alignment with architectural design plans, minimizing potential conflicts.
• Manage and execute tasks efficiently in a high-pressure environment, consistently meeting project deadlines and delivering high-quality documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a "Lead Designer," suggesting a need for independent project ownership and the ability to guide design efforts, even with periodic supervision from senior staff. The emphasis on coordinating complex engineering systems and researching code issues points to a critical "operations" aspect of design, ensuring constructability and compliance.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Independently develop detailed, scaled plans for building construction projects based on preliminary concepts, sketches, and design guidelines provided by senior staff and clients.
• Lead the design and preparation of 2D and 3D detailed construction drawings and models using Computer-Assisted Design (CAD) or Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, with periodic supervision.
• Research, interpret, and apply building code requirements and jurisdictional standards to all design solutions, ensuring full compliance.
• Proactively review Civil/SMEP drawings to assure thorough coordination and integration with architectural design plans, identifying and resolving discrepancies.
• Accurately perform redline mark-ups as directed by senior staff, ensuring all feedback is incorporated correctly.
• Conduct self-checks and reviews of completed work and redlines, highlighting completed revisions, printing updated drawings, and verifying accuracy before submission to Team Leads, Project Managers, or Quality Control.
• Effectively prioritize and execute multiple tasks in a high-pressure, deadline-driven environment, ensuring timely project completion.
• Contribute to team objectives by performing other assigned duties that support project success and departmental goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design and rigorous technical execution. The emphasis on "self-check and review," "prioritize and execute tasks," and "review Civil/SMEP drawings" are critical "operations" functions within design, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and risk mitigation.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: A minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in architectural design and documentation is necessary.

Required Skills:

• Proven proficiency in architectural design principles and practices.
• Expertise in creating detailed 2D and 3D construction drawings.
• Strong working knowledge of Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM) software.
• Demonstrated ability to research and interpret building codes and jurisdictional standards.
• Experience in coordinating architectural designs with Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical (SMEP) engineering systems.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Excellent task prioritization and execution skills in a deadline-oriented environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD.
• Experience with Bluebeam Revu for document collaboration and markup.
• Familiarity with Autodesk Construction Cloud for project management and collaboration.
• Competency in Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator for visual presentations and design refinement.
• Understanding of retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, and worship facility design typologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills align with a mid-level designer taking on more responsibility. The inclusion of specific software like Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, Autodesk Construction Cloud, and Adobe Creative Suite indicates the expected technical proficiency for this "operations" role within design.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3 years of demonstrable experience in architectural design, featuring a range of project types.
• Include detailed examples of 2D and 3D construction drawings, highlighting your proficiency with CAD and BIM software.
• Present case studies that illustrate your ability to coordinate complex engineering systems (Civil, SMEP) with architectural designs.
• Demonstrate your understanding of building codes and compliance through specific project examples and problem-solving scenarios.
• Highlight projects where you independently researched and applied code requirements or resolved design conflicts.

Process Documentation:

• Provide documentation of your personal workflow for design development, from concept to final construction documents.
• Include examples of how you have used CAD/BIM software to optimize design processes or improve efficiency.
• Showcase your methods for self-checking and reviewing your work to ensure accuracy and compliance.
• Illustrate your approach to interpreting and applying redline mark-ups from senior staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is crucial for a design role. The emphasis on "coordinating complex engineering systems," "researching building codes," and "self-checking" highlights the operational rigor expected, beyond just aesthetic design. This section is tailored to demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage the "process" of design.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Overall Range: $60,997 - $104,549 per year.
• Columbus, OH Range: $64,386 - $76,468 per year.
• Dallas, TX Range: $71,163 - $84,518 per year.

Explanation for Estimates: The provided salary ranges are based on the explicit data within the job description. The overall band reflects the potential for growth and varying levels of experience within the "Lead Designer" title across different locations. The location-specific bands account for regional cost of living and market demand differences for architectural design professionals. For instance, Dallas, TX, typically commands a higher salary than Columbus, OH, due to its larger metropolitan economy and higher cost of living. The "2-5 years" experience level typically falls within the lower to mid-range of these bands.

Benefits:

• Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule: Offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote work flexibility.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Provided upfront, allowing for immediate use for rest and personal needs.
• 401K with Company Match: A retirement savings plan with employer contributions to enhance long-term financial security.
• Rewards and Recognition Program: Acknowledges and rewards outstanding performance and contributions.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for continuous learning and professional skill enhancement.
• Paid Holidays: Standard paid holidays for time off.
• Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance plans.
• Welcome Box: A thoughtful onboarding gift to new employees.
• Casual Dress Code: A relaxed work environment.
• Reimbursement for Professional Licenses: Support for maintaining professional certifications.
• Paid Time Off for Community Team Service Events: Encourages and facilitates employee involvement in community service.
• Voluntary or Supplemental Short-Term/Long-Term Disability: Options for additional income protection.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.
• Company Paid Bonding and Recovery: Support for employees during challenging times.
• Employee Events: Social gatherings and outings to foster team cohesion and a positive work environment.

Working Hours: Based on the "Regular Full Time" employment type and a typical 40-hour work week, the role likely involves standard business hours. The "Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule" suggests some adaptability around these hours, particularly concerning remote work days.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary ranges are explicitly provided and broken down by location, offering excellent transparency. The "Lead Designer" title and the 2-5 year experience level suggest placement within the lower to mid-point of the provided ranges, especially in Columbus. The benefits package is extensive, reflecting a company that invests in employee well-being and professional development, which is a key consideration for operations professionals seeking stability and growth.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: CESO operates across diverse sectors including retail, hospitality, light industrial, healthcare, and worship facilities. This broad industry exposure means the design operations must be adaptable and adhere to varied compliance and aesthetic requirements.

Company Size: CESO is likely a medium to large-sized firm, given its multiple locations and diverse client portfolio. This size suggests a structured environment with established processes and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.

Founded: While the founding date is not provided, the company's established presence across multiple sectors and locations implies a history of growth and stability, fostering a culture of experience and proven methodologies.

Team Structure:

• The design team likely comprises architects, designers, and potentially junior staff. As a "Lead Designer," you would be expected to mentor and guide less experienced team members.
• Reporting structure probably involves a direct line to a Senior Project Manager or Director of Design, with collaboration expected across engineering disciplines (Civil, SMEP).
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close work with project managers, construction teams, and potentially client representatives to ensure design intent is translated effectively into built reality.

Methodology:

• CESO's mission, "empowering our people to impact communities by bringing clients’ visions to life," suggests a client-centric approach with a strong emphasis on execution and community impact.
• The company values "service, integrity, and authenticity," indicating a professional and ethical operational framework.
• A focus on "developing leaders" and "training and coaching on the job" points to an operations culture that prioritizes skill development and internal growth.

Company Website: https://www.cesoinc.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's diverse industry focus means designers must be adept at understanding varied project requirements, a key "operations" skill. The emphasis on service, leadership development, and client vision alignment shapes the operational culture, influencing how design projects are managed and executed.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Lead Designer" role represents a mid-to-senior level position within the design function. It signifies a transition from primarily executing tasks to taking ownership of design packages, coordinating with other disciplines, and potentially mentoring junior staff. It's a crucial step for those aspiring to become Senior Designers, Design Managers, or Project Architects.

Reporting Structure: You will likely report to a Senior Project Manager or a Director of Design/Architecture. This role requires close collaboration with internal engineering teams (Civil, MEP, Structural) and external consultants, as well as direct interaction with clients or client representatives for design reviews and approvals.

Operations Impact: The Lead Designer's impact is realized through the accurate and efficient development of construction documents that directly influence project timelines, budgets, and constructability. Effective design coordination and code compliance minimize costly changes during construction, directly impacting project profitability and client satisfaction. Your ability to translate client visions into executable plans is fundamental to CESO's mission of "bringing clients' visions to life."

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design software (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM workflows), advanced code interpretation, and complex project coordination.
• Leadership Development: Potential to mentor junior designers, lead design efforts on smaller projects, and gain experience in client presentations and project management aspects.
• Specialization: Develop expertise in CESO's key sectors (healthcare, hospitality, retail, etc.), becoming a go-to resource for specific project typologies.
• Professional Licensing Support: CESO's reimbursement for professional licenses (e.g., architectural licensure) directly supports career progression toward becoming a licensed architect.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Lead Designer" role is pivotal for career growth within architectural operations. It offers a clear path from individual contributor to a position of greater responsibility and technical leadership, with direct impact on project success and company objectives. The company's investment in professional licenses and training directly supports this trajectory.

🌐 Work Environment

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

Office Location(s): The role is available in Dallas, TX, and Columbus, OH. This offers candidates the flexibility to choose a location that best suits their personal and professional needs. The presence in multiple cities suggests a well-established company infrastructure.

Workspace Context:

• The collaborative environment is key, with opportunities to interact with architects, engineers, and project managers. The "Casual Dress Code" promotes a comfortable and approachable atmosphere.
• Access to industry-standard design tools and technology (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM, Autodesk Construction Cloud) is expected, facilitating efficient workflow and high-quality output.
• Regular team events and lunches are organized to foster a positive work environment and strengthen interpersonal relationships, crucial for effective collaboration in design operations.

Work Schedule: A "Flexible and Hybrid Work Schedule" is offered. While the role is "Regular Full Time," this flexibility likely allows for adjustments in daily start/end times and the division of work between the office and a remote location, supporting better work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model and casual dress code reflect a contemporary work environment that values employee well-being and productivity. The emphasis on team events and collaboration underscores the importance of interpersonal dynamics in design operations, ensuring smooth project execution.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience against the role's requirements.
• Technical Interview: Likely includes questions focused on your design process, software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM), code knowledge, and experience coordinating with engineering disciplines. Expect to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.
• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to walk through a selection of your work, explaining your design choices, problem-solving approaches, and the operational aspects of your project execution.
• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: Questions will assess your teamwork, communication skills, problem-solving abilities, and alignment with CESO's values of service, integrity, and authenticity.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss your long-term career aspirations and overall fit with the company.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your skills in architectural design, CAD/BIM proficiency, code compliance, and engineering system coordination.
• Highlight Process: For each project, clearly articulate the design process, your specific contributions, challenges faced, and how you applied "operations" principles (efficiency, accuracy, compliance).
• Showcase Software Skills: Include examples of detailed drawings, 3D models, and any BIM coordination work. Be prepared to discuss your workflow and techniques.
• Quantify Impact: Where possible, demonstrate how your design decisions contributed to project success (e.g., cost savings through efficient design, compliance avoiding delays).
• Tailor to CESO: Emphasize projects within CESO's key sectors if you have them, and be ready to discuss how your skills align with their mission.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential design exercises or case studies that test your ability to quickly develop design concepts, interpret code requirements, or coordinate elements under timed conditions.
• Practice articulating your design rationale clearly and concisely, focusing on the "how" and "why" behind your decisions.
• Develop strategies for managing time effectively during any practical exercises.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes a deep dive into technical skills and practical application. A well-prepared portfolio that demonstrates not just design creativity but also the "operations" of design—process, efficiency, and compliance—will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), enabling parametric design, detailed documentation, and collaborative workflows. Proficiency expected for creating 2D plans, 3D models, and construction documents.
• AutoCAD: A foundational CAD software for 2D drafting and design, still widely used for specific tasks and legacy projects.
• Bluebeam Revu: Crucial for PDF-based collaboration, markup, editing, and document management, particularly for reviewing redlines and coordinating with engineering teams.
• Autodesk Construction Cloud: A platform for managing construction projects, including document control, field collaboration, and project scheduling. Familiarity is highly beneficial for seamless project handover and coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a primary analytics role, understanding how design documentation impacts project metrics (cost, schedule) is key. Experience with project management software that offers reporting features is valuable.

CRM & Automation:

• Not directly applicable to this design role, but understanding how design projects are managed within a broader CRM or project management system is a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on industry-standard design and documentation software. Proficiency in these tools is not just about using them, but understanding how they facilitate efficient design operations, collaboration, and the creation of accurate construction documents.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Service-Oriented: A strong commitment to serving clients by bringing their visions to life, ensuring design solutions meet client needs and expectations.
• Integrity and Authenticity: Operating with honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all design and project management activities.
• Leadership & Empowerment: A culture that develops leaders and empowers individuals to use their skills to make a positive impact.
• Efficiency and Accuracy: A focus on meticulous work, code compliance, and efficient processes to deliver high-quality, constructible designs.
• Community Impact: A desire to contribute positively to the communities where projects are located, aligning with CESO's broader mission.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Close collaboration with engineering disciplines (Civil, MEP, Structural) is paramount to ensure cohesive and constructible designs.
• Proactive Communication: Open and timely communication with project managers, senior staff, and clients to manage expectations and resolve issues efficiently.
• Feedback Culture: An environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and utilized for continuous improvement in design quality and process.
• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, code updates, and software tips among team members to elevate the collective skill set.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's values directly inform the operational approach to design. A candidate who embodies these values will likely thrive, demonstrating a commitment to client satisfaction, ethical practice, and continuous improvement within the design workflow.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Vision with Code Compliance: Effectively translating creative architectural concepts into designs that strictly adhere to complex building codes and jurisdictional requirements.
• Coordinating Complex Engineering Systems: Ensuring seamless integration of architectural design with intricate Civil, Structural, Mechanical, Plumbing, and Electrical systems, requiring strong communication and technical understanding.
• Meeting Tight Deadlines: Managing workload and prioritizing tasks effectively in a fast-paced environment to deliver high-quality documentation on schedule.
• Adapting to Diverse Project Types: Continuously learning and adapting design approaches to suit the unique demands of various sectors like healthcare, hospitality, and retail.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Software Training: Deepen expertise in Revit, BIM workflows, and potentially explore new design technologies and plugins.
• Code Interpretation Specialization: Become an expert in specific building codes or jurisdictional requirements relevant to CESO’s key markets.
• Project Leadership: Gain experience leading design efforts, mentoring junior team members, and participating in client presentations.
• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining professional licenses and certifications (e.g., Architectural Registration Exam - ARE).

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to the role of a Lead Designer in a multi-disciplinary firm. CESO's commitment to training and development provides a clear pathway to overcome these challenges and advance one's career.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex architectural project where you had to coordinate significantly with MEP or Structural engineers. What was your process, and what challenges did you overcome?" (Focus on coordination, problem-solving, and communication strategies.)
• "How do you approach researching and interpreting new or complex building codes for a project? Walk us through your typical methodology." (Highlight research skills, analytical thinking, and application of findings.)
• "Tell us about a time you had to manage multiple design tasks with competing deadlines. How did you prioritize and ensure quality?" (Focus on time management, prioritization, and quality control processes.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "CESO emphasizes 'empowering our people to impact communities.' How do you see your role as a Lead Designer contributing to this mission?" (Connect your design work to client satisfaction and community benefit.)
• "Our culture values integrity and authenticity. Can you share an example of how you've upheld these values in a professional setting?" (Demonstrate ethical conduct and transparency.)
• "How do you approach collaboration with team members from different disciplines, such as engineers?" (Showcase collaborative spirit and cross-functional communication skills.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly state the project type, your role, key challenges, design solutions, and outcomes.
• Emphasize Process: Detail your design workflow, software usage, and how you ensured coordination and compliance. This is where you demonstrate "operations" thinking.
• Highlight Technical Skills: Clearly point out your proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, BIM, and your ability to produce detailed, accurate construction documents.
• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific design decisions, code interpretations, or coordination issues within your presented projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparing for these types of questions will allow you to showcase not only your design talent but also your operational capabilities, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit with CESO.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Lead Designer position:

• Submit your application through the provided job portal link on jobs.lever.co.
• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights 3-5 of your most relevant architectural design projects. Focus on demonstrating your proficiency in CAD/BIM software, code research and application, and coordination with engineering systems.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in architectural design, BIM/CAD software, construction documentation, and project coordination. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Revit," "AutoCAD," "BIM," "code research," and "SMEP coordination."
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, problem-solving approaches, and how you manage tasks and deadlines. Prepare to discuss specific examples from your portfolio that showcase your skills and experience.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with CESO's mission, values, and the diverse sectors they serve. Understand how your role as a Lead Designer contributes to their goal of "bringing clients’ visions to life."

⚠️ 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.