Project Designer

Role Overview:

The Project Designer is responsible for shaping the story and design narrative of each project, leading the conceptualization and development of inspiring, client-focused designs. Under the mentorship of senior architects, this individual will ensure that the design aligns with the guiding principles of both Pfluger and the client. This person will work collaboratively in leading all design activities from pre-design through schematic design, inspiring the client and internal design team.

Role & Responsibilities:

Role and Responsibilities

• Embody Pfluger’s core values. Consistently demonstrate the principles of Do What’s Right, Build Synergy, Make a Difference, and Never Settle in all professional activities.
• During the pre-design phase, assist in leading the “breaking of the bread” meeting, contributing ideas to inspire the client and drive the visioning process.
• Analyze the project site to incorporate geotechnical, environmental, social, historic, and cultural conditions. Contribute to space planning and block planning efforts with a high attention to detail.
• Conduct research on building materials, sustainable design practices, and current technologies to support an innovative design process.
• Develop the project story and program. Conceptualize building design from both a functional and aesthetic perspective, aligning with the client’s requirements, guiding principles, and budget.
• Develop and refine design concepts through sketches, physical models, electronic models, diagrams, massing studies, and other visual formats to express the design intent and communicate to the project team, client, and building user groups.
• In partnership with the project team, evaluate and select building systems and materials.
• Collaborate with the Interior Designer to develop floor plans, furniture layouts, and room arrangements to maximize function and aesthetics
• Develop and refine design concepts and narratives, integrating creative ideas and technical aspects.
• Implement sustainable design principles into the building design and surrounding environment whenever possible.
• Maintain and apply an understanding of building codes and regulations to assure project compliance.
• Support in leading internal design reviews and pin ups from the pre-design stage to the schematic design stage. Provide constructive feedback during all project stages to improve design solutions.
• In collaboration with more senior designers, present building design to key stakeholders during early project phases.
• Contribute to architectural documents from schematic design to construction documentation, ensuring alignment with the design vision.
• Collaborate with architects, consultants, contractors, industry representatives, and other stakeholders to ensure the seamless integration of design components.
• Participate in site visits in partnership with the Project Manager, ensuring that construction aligns with design intent.
• Participate in value engineering processes to ensure design quality and intent are maintained.
• Review and evaluate substitution requests related to materials or design
• Collaborate with the Project Manager in responding to requests for information (RFIs) by clarifying design-related issues or addressing gaps in the documentation that could impact the building's design.
• Participate in and lead a project team, ensuring effective collaboration throughout all project phases.
• Coach and support junior staff (Technical Staff – Project Designer I), providing guidance and fostering a culture of collaboration and professional development in technical skills. Support architectural staff in pursuit of licensure and provide opportunities to earn AXP hours

Experience & Qualifications

• Alignment with Pfluger’s purpose of “inspiring people to create a more meaningful human experience,” with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
• Seasoned knowledge of architecture and design principles and practices.
• Strong visual and design skills, with the ability to effectively communicate ideas through drawings and models.
• Demonstrated proficiency in projects of average size and complexity, historically ensuring design excellence, accuracy, and timely delivery.
• Experience in educational projects is preferred.
• Proficiency in Revit is essential. Experience with Bluebeam, other relevant design software, and Microsoft Office products is highly preferred.
• Developed project-level leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate and build positive relationships both internally and externally.
• Exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Seasoned knowledge of building codes, regulations, construction processes, and project documentation.
• Demonstrated problem solving skills and the ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Professional degree in Architecture is required.
• Licensed Architect in the state of Texas is required.
• Minimum of five years of architectural experience.