Store Design Manager

Description

Owns the technical execution of La La Land's café build-outs — turning brand and design intent into permit-ready construction documents and tracking every set from concept to opening. Coordinates outsourced architects of record and consultants, safeguards design quality and brand image, and acts as the day-to-day communication link across Architecture, Development, and Operations so every project stays aligned end-to-end.  

Key Responsibilities:

• Design & Documentation — Manage drawing sets from schematic design (SD) through construction documents (CDs); adapt prototype and site-adapted plans to each location and develop solutions for unusual sites, conversions, and branded storefronts. 
• Quality, Brand & Standards — Ensure every set meets La La Land's brand image, jurisdictional, and landlord design criteria and internal quality standards; maintain AutoCAD templates and drawing standards, and fold lessons learned into prototype standards. 
• Permitting & Compliance — Prepare permit packages and redlines to clear city and landlord comments; ensure ADA, building, life-safety, and health-code compliance across jurisdictions. 
• Coordination & Problem-Solving — Coordinate architects of record, MEP/structural engineers, and expeditors; resolve routine questions and RFIs independently and track sets from concept to opening, escalating only what needs Director input. 
• Cross-Functional Collaboration — Act as the communication bridge between Architecture, Development, and Operations — aligning on timelines, site constraints, and equipment/layout changes, and translating operational needs into buildable design. 

Requirements

• 5+ years in architectural design or design project management, producing permit and construction sets for QSR, café, restaurant, or multi-unit retail build-outs. 
• Bachelor's degree in architecture, architectural design, or a related field. 
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Bluebeam Revu, and Microsoft Office; working knowledge of ADA, building, and health codes across jurisdictions. 
• Strong communicator able to keep design, development, and operations aligned, resolve complex design issues, and juggle multiple projects under tight deadlines with minimal supervision.