Design Assistant/CAD Drafter

Kahala Brands, a globally recognized leader in quick-service restaurant franchising located in beautiful Scottsdale Arizona, currently has an opportunity for a Design Assistant/CAD Drafter to join the headquarters team. Kahala franchisees and partners operate a portfolio of many quick-service restaurant brands including Cold Stone Creamery, Planet Smoothie, Pinkberry, Blimpie, and Baja Fresh, among others, in over 20 countries around the world. This is an entry to mid-level position and would report to the Director of Design.

Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• 3 or more years of restaurant design experience. Will consider candidates with college degree in related studies in lieu of experience.
• Educational or technical background in drafting, design or architecture experience working in a production firm environment a plus
• Architectural building code knowledge is a plus 
• Design and construction background is a plus
• Must be able to review and interpret site information or as-built plans 
• Generate plans, elevations, and details in AutoCad and PDF formats. These are required software skills.
• Detailed understanding of plans, construction documents and engineering disciplines
• Detailed knowledge and experience of restaurant equipment and design.
• Willingness to work with multiple individuals and diverse franchisee clientele. 
• Ability to learn and retain brand standards/trade dress for multiple brands. 
• Must have excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills. Highly organized and detail oriented 
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Teams)
• Highly proficient in AutoCAD design software is a must including but not limited to block creation, updating and manipulation, layer management, and knowledge of creating drawing templates a plus
• Smartsheet PM software experience is a plus

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop and/or maintain prototype CAD files for each brand including floor plans, finish details, elevations, ceiling and lighting and millwork details
• Maintain equipment spec books for each brand 
• Maintain design guides for each brand 
• Create & maintain CAD block libraries for each brand 
• Draft feasibility test fits on request for unique spaces and/or multi-brands
• Assist with drafting plans for remodels, office updates, and other internal projects
• Collaborate closely with the design and construction team to ensure alignment
• Standardize brand prototype filing system
• Assist restaurant design managers with unique project requests as needed

PRE-CONSTRUCTION

• Create proposed space “Test Fit” and other plans in AutoCad and PDF formats.
• Provide support as needed to individual architects during the entire development process.

PLAN & DESIGN

• Create and manage process checklists and forms as needed for each project. 

REFRESH, REMODEL AND RELOCATION PROJECTS

• Generate and update RF/RM guides, specifications, and requirements.
• Review and redline remodel/reconfigured plans produced by architects while maintaining a variety of existing conditions, equipment, and requests.

OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES

• New product and material search 
• Transition newly acquired brands into the Kahala development system.
• Maintain and organize project files for all brands.

Benefits (Subject to Change):

• 401(k) matching, including Roth options
• 3 Medical insurance plans
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Flexible spending account
• Health savings account
• Life insurance
• Short-term disability insurance
• Long-term disability insurance
• Paid time off (10 holidays, 3 weeks PTO)
• Tuition reimbursement
• Referral program
• Wellness programs
• Hybrid work schedule