Designer

About Empire and Co.

Empire and Co. is a leader in delivering innovative workplace solutions nationwide. With over 80 years of industry experience and more than 565 full-time employees, we partner with leading architects, designers, brokers, craftsmen, and manufacturers to create high-performing, cost-effective environments that solve business challenges and activate brands.

Our continued growth reflects our commitment to operational excellence, client service, and delivering complex projects with precision and professionalism.

Overview

Empire and Co. is currently seeking a Designer / Product Application Specialist to join our team in our Atlanta office. This position will hold responsibilities to provide design services to dealership customers including programming, space planning, development of topicals, color boards, and digital presentations.

The Designer / Product Application Specialist will work closely with internal teams and clients to develop accurate furniture plans, specifications, and design solutions that align with project objectives and client expectations.

Key Responsibilities

• Create drawings and specifications in CET (ex: Topicals, Furniture plans, 3D Renderings)
• Revise drawings and specs when required
• Prepare installation drawings and supporting documents
• Provide consistent updates to Director of Design
• Work closely with dealership sales and sales admins to ensure accurate plans and specifications
• Assist with finish selection and create digital sample boards
• Spec check other team members' work as needed
• Meet with clients, in person or virtually, to understand the clients' objectives, desires, and design within their allocated budget
• Identify areas that need field verification and coordinate actual dimensions with final plan
• Inventory existing product; incorporate in furniture plans and specifications
• Maintain internal reporting systems (i.e. time sheets, tracking design time, project files)
• Follow Empire and Co. Design department guidelines and standards for deliverables and filing of projects
• Adhere to deadlines of key deliverables
• Attend industry events as necessary
• Continuing education related to product updates and industry trends

Skills & Qualifications

• At least 5 years of dealership experience in the commercial contract furniture industry preferred
• Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design, Architecture or related field
• Proficient in CET, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of contract furniture lines
• Working knowledge of applicable building codes, ADA regulations, National Electrical Code, National Fire Code, etc.
• Experience with Steelcase products a plus
• Must be comfortable visiting job sites to take basic field dimensions and furniture inventory
• Excellent creative thinking, problem solving skills, and attention to detail
• Proven organizational and follow-through skills
• Strong time management skills and ability to multi-task within a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with clients, manufacturers reps, and team members
• Strong presentation skills and must be comfortable attending meetings and interacting with customers, designers, architects, and contractors
• Works well in a team environment, and ability to work longer hours as needed to support team and meet customer expectations