Interior Designer / Project Manager: Food and Beverage

Job Title: Interior Designer / Project Manager – Food and Beverage Studio Location: Berkeley, CA (In person required 3 days / week) Employment Type: Full-time Experience Level: Mid-Level to Senior About Us: We are a creative architecture and interiors firm specializing in restaurant design in Berkeley, CA. We craft immersive dining experiences that express each client’s brand through thoughtful design and precise execution. We are looking for a highly skilled and versatile professional to lead projects from initial concept through construction—someone who is as comfortable interpreting a client’s brand and vision as they are managing consultants or reviewing shop drawings. This role combines design leadership, technical expertise, and project management. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and is passionate about bringing restaurants to life through strong design, detailed documentation, and seamless project coordination. Key Responsibilities Design & Client Engagement • Lead the design process from concept to finish, including client-facing meetings to define program and brand vision. • Develop mood boards, presentations, and material palettes that reflect the client’s vision, brand identity, and design narrative. • Create 3D design models and renderings in SketchUp and Enscape for internal and client presentations. • Specify materials, finishes, lighting, and colors aligned with the brand and project goals. Project Management • Manage project schedules, deliverables, and internal task tracking. • Track project budgets and fees, proactively managing scope and schedule. • Coordinate with external consultants, including structural, MEP, and food service. • Serve as the main point of contact for the client and lead day-to-day project communication. Technical Execution & Construction • Develop production of drawing sets in Autocad, including ROM pricing sets, permit sets, and construction documents. • Ensure compliance with applicable building codes, ADA regulations, MEP coordination, and health department requirements. • Oversee construction administration: respond to RFIs, attend weekly OAC meetings, issue meeting notes, and review submittals and shop drawings. Qualifications • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or Interior Architecture. • Required: 5+ years of experience in an architecture or interiors firm, with restaurant/food and beverage design work. • Required: Strong knowledge of restaurant-specific commercial kitchens, MEP systems, and Food Service equipment; health department requirements, current zoning code, building codes, and ADA requirements. • Proficiency in SketchUp, Enscape, Adobe Creative Suite, and standard drawing production software (AutoCAD required; Revit beneficial but not required). • Experience coordinating consultants and managing project budgets and timelines. • Excellent communication and client-facing skills. • A balanced mindset: design-driven, technically proficient, and organized. What We Offer: • Opportunity to lead creative, high-impact restaurant projects from start to finish. • A collaborative, supportive studio culture. • Flexible work structure with potential for hybrid work. • Competitive salary and benefits. To Apply: Send your resume, portfolio, and a brief cover letter highlighting relevant experience and interest in restaurant design.