Senior Architecture Designer – Retail & Branded Environments

$90,000 - $120,000

New York, NY (Hybrid)

The Opportunity

This is a chance to lead concept-driven retail design work from first sketch through construction, for a firm whose portfolio spans commercial, corporate, retail, and healthcare projects. You will own the intersection of creative concept development and technical execution, working directly on retail fixturing, custom millwork, and branded environment design rather than handing off the interesting parts to someone else.

Why You'll Love This Role

You will interface directly with clients throughout the design phase, not just sit behind a desk producing drawings. You will assist the design director in overseeing the design team, giving you real influence over how projects get executed. The scope of work is broad and hands-on: test-fits, schematic design, program analysis, fixture and millwork detailing, and specification of furniture, finishes, and accessories. You will also periodically visit project sites during construction, so you see your designs built, not just rendered.

The firm is headquartered in New York City with a satellite office in Long Island, working on projects locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally. The role is hybrid, giving you flexibility while staying connected to the studio and client work.

Your Day-to-Day

• Lead client-facing design conversations throughout the design phase
• Develop preliminary retail programs of requirements, test-fits, and schematic planning
• Design and coordinate retail fixturing: wall systems, gondolas, vitrines, POS, and specialty displays
• Develop custom millwork design, including detailing, specification, and fabrication intent
• Prepare and support design scope and budget documentation for fixtures, millwork, and specialty elements
• Review engineering documents, shop drawings, and submittals for compliance with design intent
• Organize, prepare, and present at design presentations
• Coordinate with clients, consultants, and the broader project team

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture; Master's degree a plus
• Minimum 5 years of continuous professional experience in retail interiors and architecture within a branded environment
• Demonstrated expertise in retail store planning, including sales area and back-of-house layouts
• Proven experience with retail fixturing and custom millwork design and coordination
• Strong proficiency in SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite
• Ability to produce photo-realistic renderings using Enscape and AI-driven rendering software
• Working knowledge of schematic design, design development, and contract documents
• Please note: this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship

Why Candidates Say Yes

• Direct client interaction rather than being buried in production work
• Real design leadership responsibility, assisting in overseeing the design team
• Full-lifecycle involvement, from concept through construction site visits
• Work across a varied project mix: retail, corporate, commercial, and healthcare
• A firm with an award-winning, well-established reputation and offices spanning NYC and Long Island
• Hybrid schedule

Ready to Apply?

If you are ready to bring your retail design expertise to a firm that will put you in front of clients and give you a real hand in shaping projects from concept through construction, we would like to hear from you.

Great Bay Staffing represents candidates with complete confidentiality. Your resume will never be shared with a client without your knowledge and approval.