Design Manager

At Caribou Coffee we create day-making experiences that spark a chain reaction of GOOD ! This is our purpose. Our team brings this to life by focusing on what’s really important around here – TEAM, GUEST, BUSINESS ! It’s that simple. If you’re ready to work somewhere you can be yourself while making an impact on your community, creating life-long relationships, and serving the best coffee around, join our herd!

Apply today and be part of the ‘Bou Crew!

Position Overview:

As Design Manager, you will help shape the future of Caribou’s store experience by bringing brand-right, operationally smart and cost-conscious designs to life. As the primary design resource within the Real Estate, Design and Construction team, you will guide new stores, remodels and partner-led projects from early site review through design development, construction documentation and field support. This role partners closely with Real Estate, Construction, Operations, Facilities, landlords, franchisees, consultants and vendors to create consistent, welcoming and highly functional Caribou environments.

This position works within the Development team alongside the Real Estate, Design and Construction team and acts as an internal consultant to Facilities, Operations and franchise/license partners.

Core Responsibilities Coordinate due diligence, design, planning and production phases for new, remodel and partner-led store projects.

Partner with Real Estate, Construction, Legal, Operations, Facilities, landlords, franchisees and consultants to establish design intent and secure required approvals.

Direct architectural, engineering and exterior sign vendors to deliver complete, brand-right and permit-ready construction documents within agreed timelines.

Assess early design risks, including layout feasibility, utility/MEP constraints, signage, exterior scope, landlord requirements and operational fit.

Manage multiple concurrent projects from shell review through space planning, construction documentation, signage coordination and construction support.

Maintain Caribou design standards, prototype documents, finish/material standards, drawing templates and organized project archives.

Identify cost-conscious design solutions that balance brand intent, guest experience, operational needs, schedule and capital investment.

Review partner-led drawings and support franchise/license partners in applying Caribou design standards consistently.

Drive the creative vision for store renovations and new store development, leading the creation of refreshed design concepts that elevate the guest experience while supporting operational and brand objectives.

Lead timely resolution of design issues to reduce redesign cycles, field conflicts and project delays.

Skills and Qualifications Strong working knowledge of construction documents, shop drawings, restaurant/retail layouts and consultant coordination.

Able to operate with independence, prioritize competing work and keep projects moving without direct team support.

Clear, concise communicator who can influence internal stakeholders, external consultants, landlords and franchise/license partners.

Comfortable presenting design recommendations, risks and tradeoffs to management.

Current knowledge of restaurant, coffeehouse and retail design trends.

High personal accountability, deadline discipline and attention to detail.

Strong organizational, space planning and problem-solving skills.

Proven ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced development environment.

Qualifications:

Required:

At least 7 years of experience in architecture, with an emphasis in restaurant or retail projects preferred; franchise experience is a plus.
5 years of AutoCAD experience; 3D rendering capabilities are a plus.

Experience…