Project Architect

Reports to: SVP of Design, Construction & Technology

Classification: Full-time, permanent

FLSA Status: Exempt

Pay Type: Salaried

Job Summary: The Project Architect leads the design, documentation, and review process for new cafes and renovations, maintaining processes and relationships with architects, engineers, and external project stakeholders. 

What You Will Own

Design Brief Development: Develop unique Design Briefs in collaboration with the Partnerships team and present to the Exec Team for approval.

Cafe Design & Layout: Collaboratively with outside architecture firms, create unique and inspiring designs for all new Saxbys cafes and renovations consistent with approved Design Briefs. Layout new cafes including front and back of house equipment and millwork details.

Feasibility & Standards: Complete test fits for potential real estate opportunities. Work with engineers to perform feasibility studies of potential real estate. Develop and maintain internal processes, architectural standards, design guidelines, millwork standards, and equipment standards.

Project Administration: Identify administrative critical path inclusive of zoning, licenses, permits, and variances required for all projects. Ensure the path is followed in a timely and comprehensive manner to ensure projects begin on time. Review and facilitate external review of all shop drawings and submittals necessary to complete any project. Create punch lists and close out all projects.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Maintain existing and establish new contracts and relationships with relevant outside vendors and contractors including Engineers, Architects, and Design Consultants. Solicit feedback formally and informally from Partnerships, Product and Ops Implementation, and Marketing departments internally as well as external stakeholders such as Landlords, University partners, and Dining Service Provider partners to inform and refine future layout and standards.

Cost Management & Site Visits: Strive to lower soft costs and build out costs on a project per project basis as well as system-wide. Visit sites as needed from pre-construction through project completion.

Project Scheduling & Reporting: Build, maintain, and report on project schedules as well as master schedules inclusive of all projects. Work with preferred vendors to solicit pricing and availability for all owner-supplied fixtures, furniture, and finishes for all projects as needed. Approach all projects pro-actively and with flexibility to adapt to dynamic requirements.

Who You Will Support

• Partnerships, Product and Ops Implementation, and Marketing departments internally
• Landlords, University partners, and Dining Service Provider partners externally

Who You Will Supervise

None

What Success Looks Like

• Successful execution of cafe design and construction projects, meeting deadlines and budget constraints
• Positive feedback from stakeholders on cafe design and functionality
• Continuous improvement in design and construction processes, leading to cost savings and efficiency gains
• Timely completion of all project milestones and deliverables

Where You Excel

• Project Management
• Architectural Design
• Communication & Collaboration
• Problem-Solving
• Budget Management

What You Have Done

• 3+ years of experience in design and project management
• Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design or Architecture strongly preferred
• Strong project management/project architect background

What is Required

• Support, exhibit, and promote Saxbys Mission Statement, Make Life Better, and Core Values in all daily activities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Up to 30% travel required
• Valid driver's license
• Physical requirements:
• Able to stand, walk, and smile for extended periods of time
• Able to stoop and kneel
• Push, pull, lift or carry up to 35 lbs
• Ascend or descend ladders, stairs, ramps