Architectural CADD Designer

Rita's Italian Ice - Fort Washington, PA

Full-time

Fort Washington, PA

Food Services and Drinking Places

About the position

Rita's Franchise Company, LLC, an iconic brand known for spreading happiness worldwide, is seeking a passionate individual to join our Development Department. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment and has a strong interest in design. The successful candidate will be responsible for creating conceptual and final shop designs and layouts, as well as developing design packages for distribution to franchisees, architects, and contractors using Auto CADD and Blue Beam software programs. This position requires a high level of proficiency in these software applications to set up files and produce accurate drawings for various projects. In this role, you will conduct design meetings with franchisees, architects, engineers, and other personnel to finalize shop designs. Effective communication is essential, as you will need to liaise with architects, contractors, and equipment vendors to verify and update equipment data sheets, plan files, and design blocks. Additionally, you will review building codes, zoning ordinances, and land use regulations to ensure that all conceptual designs adhere to best practices and legal requirements. You will also participate in site tours with the Senior Director of Development, franchisees, brokers, and other stakeholders to assess potential new store locations. Supporting franchisees throughout the pre-design, design, and permitting phases of construction is a key aspect of this role. You will assist them with the permitting process and maintain organized Auto CADD and Blue Beam design data in construction project files for all shops. Regular updates on project progress will be provided to the development team, and you will be responsible for maintaining appropriate portions of the development report. Building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships across all departments is crucial for success in this position. Other duties may be assigned as needed, including high-priority projects that impact strategic development.

Responsibilities

• Create conceptual and final shop designs and layouts using Auto CADD and Blue Beam programs.
• Develop design packages for distribution to franchisees, architects, and contractors.
• Demonstrate proficient use of Auto CADD and Blue Beam software to set up files and produce drawings.
• Conduct design meetings with franchisees, architects, engineers, and staff to finalize shop designs.
• Communicate with architects, contractors, and equipment vendors to verify and update equipment data sheets and design blocks.
• Review building codes, zoning ordinances, and land use regulations to validate conceptual designs.
• Participate in site tours with the Senior Director of Development, franchisees, brokers, and others.
• Support franchisees during the pre-design, design, and permitting phases of construction.
• Maintain and organize all Auto CADD and Blue Beam design data in construction project files.
• Provide regular updates to the development team on project progress.

Requirements

• Degree in architectural design or a construction-related field or equivalent experience.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in architectural/engineering or construction-related roles, or equivalent experience.
• Proficient in Auto CADD and Blue Beam software programs.
• Intermediate or advanced skills in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Professional presentation and excellent communication skills, both on the phone and in video meetings.
• Intermediate skill level or higher in design software such as Illustrator and Editor.
• Some knowledge of Sketchup 3-D or modeling software in Auto CADD.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a franchise development environment.
• Familiarity with construction permitting processes.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently or as part of a team.