Associate, Restaurant Design

At El Pollo Loco, we are on a mission to be the nation’s leading fire‑grilled chicken restaurant. When it comes to our people, we are all about growth. Whether that means specialized training, a clearly laid out career trajectory or collaborating cross‑functionally, we are committed to the success of our people the same way we’ve been committed to the success of the El Pollo Loco brand for the last 50 years.

In fact, we see you as our secret ingredient. While our chicken is fire, it’s our people who set us ablaze.

Our restaurants are only the tip of the flame! If you’re looking for an innovative, winning, and welcoming workplace, then a flamin’ good career in our Restaurant Support Center is right for you.

At our Support Center, we believe our best work is done together, when departments collaborate and everyone is confident in contributing their ideas. This is why we are in the office 3 days per week.

• STRONG office culture recognized as a Great Place to Work® and driven by our core values:
  Simple. Together. Relentless. Ownership. Nimble. Growth
• Career growth opportunities
• Competitive pay and bonus potential
• Medical + Dental + Vision Insurance + HSA Savings Account
• 401(K) Retirement Plan with company match and immediate vesting
• Paid Vacation + Sick Pay + 12 Paid Holidays
• Employee Assistance Program
• Free El Pollo Loco food + restaurant discounts
• Perk Spot discounts program

The Design Associate will support the Design & Construction Teams for both company and franchise remodel projects. The role requires strong organizational skills, technical design knowledge, and the ability to manage multiple timelines simultaneously.

• Primary point of contact for company and franchise remodels to execute EPL Design Standards across architectural, civil/site design, kitchen layout, and interior design disciplines.
• Support development goals by maintaining the remodel pipelines in Smartsheet and driving schedules.
• Maintain and update FF&E standards and documentation for system-wide distribution.
• Conduct product and construction method research to support design solutions.
• Manage RFP coordination and formal project communications.
• Review and process construction administration documents.
• Prepare design‑related presentation materials for consultants, franchisees, and executive leadership.
• Attend site visits, scope walks, punch walks, conferences, and other development‑related functions as needed.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform the essential functions of the job. Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. The requirements listed below are representative of the education and/or experience required.

Professional degree in Architecture, Interior Design, or related field preferred. 3+ years of experience in restaurant, hospitality, or retail design, and construction administration.

• Proficiency in CAD, Bluebeam Revu, Smartsheet, Microsoft Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Working knowledge of IBC, Health Code, and ADA compliance.
• Familiarity with remodel, conversion/TI, and ground‑up construction processes.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment while maintaining a positive attitude.
• Strong communication, attention to detail, and organizational skills; ability to speak, write, and comprehend basic English.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Ability to travel to corporate project site visits, punch walks, conferences, and franchise support activities, as needed.

The pay range identified is the hourly or salary rate El Pollo Loco expects to pay for the posted position. This range does not include any benefits or bonus opportunities that might be available for the position based on position and eligibility criteria. At El Pollo Loco, it is not typical for an individual to be hired at the high end of the range.

Individual pay decisions will vary based on a variety of factors including years of experience, industry experience, education, geography, etc.