Designer- Residential Design-Build

About Us

HDR Remodeling is an award-winning Design-Build firm celebrating nearly 40 years of satisfied residential clients in the East Bay Area. We specialize in whole-house renovations, kitchen and bath remodeling, and garage and basement conversions. Our start-to-finish process—from design concept to permit-ready plans to production—guides our clients along the way, keeps projects on time and on budget, and takes the uncertainty and stress out of remodeling a home.

Our philosophy and passion is to help our clients make their remodeling dreams come true.

The Role

We are seeking a full-time Designer to join our team. You'll play a key role in both the design and sales process—from concept development through signed construction agreements. This position is responsible for creating innovative, high-quality residential design, guiding clients through selections, and collaborating with the team to ensure projects meet aesthetic, functional, and budget goals.

This role collaborates closely with the Design Manager, our team of designers, Estimation, and the Production Team to deliver seamless, well-documented design-build projects. The Designer plays a key role in shaping clients’ homes and experiences by combining creativity and strategy—leveraging strong CAD skills, design expertise, and excellent client communication to manage relationships, influence sales outcomes, and work independently with minimal supervision

Design, Drafting, and Design Administration

• Complete data gathering site visit for each project to take detailed measurements and document current conditions. Create accurate as-built drawings.
• Develop design concepts and provide creative direction on all projects assigned by the Design Manager. Ensure all deadlines are set and met.
• Complete drafting of approved plans, elevations and construction drawings.
• Maintain client files and project binder using the approved format, including plans, drawings, specifications, fixtures, and finishes.
• Work with the Design Manager to create and manage the design calendar for each project, including meeting schedules, milestones, and deadlines for key decisions.
• Work with the Architectural Designer to prepare plans for and help expedite permit submissions in accordance with California Building Codes and City Codes.
• Prepare detailed construction documents for the production team.
• Maintain accurate time sheets for each project on Buildertrend.

Product Specification and Design Library Management

• Work with the clients to complete fixture, finish and material selection prior to signing the construction agreement.
• Gather samples from suppliers as needed for client approval
• Ensure client selections are accurately documented and approved in Builder Trend
• Organize, update, and maintain the Design resource and sample library
• Research new materials and building methods as needed to stay well informed on emerging trends.

Estimates

• Work with the Design Manager to develop accurate budgets with timely revisions for material costs and sub-contractor quotes. HDR labor will be estimated by the Production Manager.
• Prepare packets with clear and concise scope of work statements, supporting documentation and drawings, and all other pertinent information for subcontractors and suppliers prior to the trade walk-through.
• Ensure consistency between the approved plans, estimates, and Construction Agreement.
• Prepare and execute accurate cabinet orders. Ensure the cabinet estimate is updated periodically as revisions are made during the design process.

Production

• Ensure complete and accurate transfer of information for order placement, production scheduling, and creation of project binders for the production team.
  • Cabinet delivery dates
  • Project specifications
  • Detailed construction drawings
  • Supplier quotes
• Assist with subcontractor and supplier communication as needed
• Participate in the design-to-production pass-the-baton meeting. Ensuring all meeting materials are completed on time.
• Participate in production site visits to sign off on electrical fixture placement, tile layout, and cabinet layout.

What You'll Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as design or architecture
• Extensive kitchen and bathroom design experience
  • Deep understanding of NKBA design guidelines
  • Working knowledge of California Building Codes and Title 24 requirements;
  • Well-developed aesthetic sense for helping clients select the finishes for their projects
• Basic understanding of construction practices for kitchens and bathrooms
• Strong knowledge of residential design principles and construction processes
• Experience in creating detailed drawings and specifications
• Ability to collaborate effectively with clients, architects, and contractors
• Knowledge of building codes and regulations
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work independently.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple projects and deadlines.
• Must be able to read and execute plans
  

Requirements:

• 3-5 years of design-build experience working in a high-end residential design r
• Bachelor's degree in a related field such as design or architecture
• Design Software: Highly proficient with CAD. AutoCAD LT is our primary design software (we do not use 20/20). Working knowledge of composing renderings in plan, elevation, and 3D views, Photoshop, and Canva
• Office Software: Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Sheets), MS Excel, Word, DocuSign, Adobe Acrobat, etc
• Reliable vehicle/ability to reliably commute to Emeryville, CA, or relocate before starting
• Authorized to work in the United States

Preferred:

• Design-build firm experience
• Architectural license

Compensation and Benefits:

• $83,200-$93,600/yr based on experience; hourly (non-exempt)
• 401(k) matching and profit sharing
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
  
• Bonus opportunities

Schedule: Monday to Friday, in-office

Why HDR Remodeling

We're a design-build company built on sustainability, teamwork, honesty, and exceeding expectations, values that have carried us for nearly 40 years. This is a chance to step into a senior role with real ownership over how our most complex projects get designed and built.

Application Status:
We review every application carefully and will email qualified candidates about next steps. Please don't call the office about your application status.

Equal Opportunity Employer:
HDR Remodeling is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or any other protected status under applicable laws.

In addition to federal law requirements, HDR Remodeling complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training. HDR Remodeling expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.