COMMERCIAL ENVIRONMENT DESIGNER
AUBURN/OPELIKA, AL

The role of a Designer for this dealership is a blend of creative interior design, technical specification, and project management.

1. Programming & Space Planning

The designer must translate a client’s business needs into a functional floor plan.

• Needs Assessment: Interview clients to understand their workflow, headcount, and aesthetic preferences.
• Field Verification: Conduct site visits to take accurate field measurements and note existing conditions (columns, electrical outlets, HVAC).
• Block Planning: Develop high-level space allocations to ensure proper department adjacencies and traffic flow.
• Conceptual Design: Create mood boards, finishes, and preliminary layouts that align with the client's brand and budget.

2. Design Development & Specification

This is the technical "heavy lifting" where concepts become orderable products.

• Furniture Selection: Curate specific product lines (workstations, private offices, ancillary seating) that meet ergonomic and functional requirements.
• Detailed Specification: Utilize software like CET Designer, AutoCAD, or Configura to create precise parts lists. This includes identifying specific finishes, fabrics, electrical components, and "specials" (custom items).
• Code Compliance: Ensure all layouts meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility standards and local life-safety/egress codes.
• Renderings: Produce 3D visualizations and VR walkthroughs to help clients "see" the space before purchasing.

3. Sales Support & Collaboration

Designers are often "technical co-pilots" for the Sales Account Managers.

• Pricing Support: Work with the sales team to ensure the specified products stay within the client’s budget.
• Bid Response: Assist in the preparation of RFP (Request for Proposal) responses, providing required drawings and furniture typicals.
• Client Presentations: Lead the design portion of sales presentations, explaining the "why" behind specific furniture choices and layouts.

4. Technical Documentation & Implementation

Once a project is sold, the designer ensures it can actually be installed.

• Installation Drawings: Create detailed "I-packs" (Installation Packages) that show installers exactly where every piece of furniture, electrical feed, and data port is located.
• Review of Acknowledgments: Verify manufacturer acknowledgments against the original design to ensure the correct colors and quantities were ordered.
• Project Management Liaison: Communicate with project managers and lead installers to troubleshoot issues that arise during the build-out.

5. Essential Skills & Qualifications

• Software Proficiency: Mastery of CET Designer, AutoCAD, and the Microsoft Office Suite.
• Product Knowledge: Deep understanding of major manufacturer catalogs (e.g., Steelcase, Herman Miller, Haworth) and their various price points.
• Attention to Detail: Specifying a single workstation can involve dozens of individual part numbers; accuracy is critical to prevent costly ordering errors.
• Degree: Usually requires a Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Architecture (CIDA accredited preferred).