Designer- Residential Design-Build

HDR Remodeling is an award-winning Design-Build firm celebrating nearly 40 years of satisfied residential clients in the East Bay Area. We specialize in whole-house renovations, kitchen and bath remodeling, and garage and basement conversions. Our start-to-finish process—from design concept to permit-ready plans to production—guides our clients along the way, keeps projects on time and on budget, and takes the uncertainty and stress out of remodeling a home.

Our philosophy and passion is to help our clients make their remodeling dreams come true.

We are seeking a full-time Designer to join our team. You'll play a key role in both the design and sales process—from concept development through signed construction agreements. This position is responsible for creating innovative, high-quality residential design, guiding clients through selections, and collaborating with the team to ensure projects meet aesthetic, functional, and budget goals.

This role collaborates closely with the Design Manager, our team of designers, Estimation, and the Production Team to deliver seamless, well-documented design-build projects. The Designer plays a key role in shaping clients’ homes and experiences by combining creativity and strategy—leveraging strong CAD skills, design expertise, and excellent client communication to manage relationships, influence sales outcomes, and work independently with minimal supervision

• Complete data gathering site visit for each project to take detailed measurements and document current conditions. Create accurate as-built drawings.
• Develop design concepts and provide creative direction on all projects assigned by the Design Manager. Ensure all deadlines are set and met.
• Complete drafting of approved plans, elevations and construction drawings.
• Maintain client files and project binder using the approved format, including plans, drawings, specifications, fixtures, and finishes.
• Work with the Design Manager to create and manage the design calendar for each project, including meeting schedules, milestones, and deadlines for key decisions.
• Work with the Architectural Designer to prepare plans for and help expedite permit submissions in accordance with California Building Codes and City Codes.
• Prepare detailed construction documents for the production team.
• Maintain accurate time sheets for each project on Buildertrend.

• Work with the clients to complete fixture, finish and material selection prior to signing the construction agreement.
• Gather samples from suppliers as needed for client approval
• Ensure client selections are accurately documented and approved in Builder Trend
• Organize, update, and maintain the Design resource and sample library
• Research new materials and building methods as needed to stay well informed on emerging trends.

• Work with the Design Manager to develop accurate budgets with timely revisions for material costs and sub-contractor quotes. HDR labor will be estimated by the Production Manager.
• Prepare packets with clear and concise scope of work statements, supporting documentation and drawings, and all other pertinent information for subcontractors and suppliers prior to the trade walk-through.
• Ensure consistency between the approved plans, estimates, and Construction Agreement.
• Prepare and execute accurate cabinet orders. Ensure the cabinet estimate is updated periodically as revisions are made during the design process.

• Ensure complete and accurate transfer of information for order placement, production scheduling, and creation of project binders for the production team.
  • Cabinet delivery dates
  • Project specifications
  • Detailed construction drawings
  • Suppl…