Senior Residential Designer

At Oak City Homes, design is where the client relationship begins, and the first impression that sets everything in motion. It's where trust is built, vision is shaped, and the decision to move forward is made. We need someone who understands that and shows up to every client interaction ready to lead it. We're looking for a Senior Residential Designer who leads from the front. Someone who can take a client from "I have some ideas" to "I can't wait to get started." Someone who walks into a room, takes charge, asks the questions clients didn't know they needed to answer, and turns vague ideas into a clear vision they can see and feel. This is a full ownership role. You'll bring structure, expertise, and leadership to a function that is central to everything we do. If you're a seasoned designer who leads with confidence, moves clients forward, and wants to build something long-term with a team that's invested in doing things right, we'd love to hear from you.

PERSONALITY CHARACTERISTICS

Confident & Takes Charge:

Takes charge of the design process from the first meeting. Leads with authority and warmth, earns trust quickly, and isn't afraid to steer, clients feel guided, not managed.

Proactive & Anticipates Problems:

Doesn't wait to be told what needs to happen next. Stays two steps ahead, on client decisions, project timelines, and potential roadblocks, and acts before things become issues.

Process-Driven:

Thinks in systems. Knows how to structure a design process that is efficient, repeatable, and keeps projects on schedule.

Decisive & Direct:

Comfortable making strong recommendations, narrowing choices, and keeping momentum. Doesn't let projects stall in indecision.

Clear, Kind & Direct:

Comfortable having tough conversations with clients, vendors, and teammates. Delivers honest feedback and hard news in a way that is respectful and firm without avoiding the issue.

Organized & Accountable:

Manages multiple active projects without dropping details. Owns deadlines and deliverables without being managed.

Tech-Savvy:

Embraces design software and project management tools as a competitive advantage, not a burden.

Leadership-Minded:

Wants to build something, not just fill a seat. Invested in the growth of the team and the company over the long term.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

Degree in Interior Design, Architecture, or a related field Minimum 5 years of experience in residential design or remodeling, with a track record of managing the full design process Direct client-facing experience — comfortable leading consultations, presentations, and selection appointments independently Proficiency in CAD software — able to produce accurate floor plans, cabinet layouts, elevations, and construction-ready drawings Demonstrated ability to structure and manage a design process that keeps projects on schedule and clients on track Strong knowledge of kitchen and bath design, cabinetry, and finish selections (countertops, tile, fixtures, hardware, lighting) Solid understanding of residential construction methods and how design decisions affect budget and schedule Experienced working with high-expectation or indecisive clients — knows how to guide without overwhelming Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously Proficient with technology — design software, project management platforms, and client communication tools Must be local and able to work in person daily Portfolio of completed residential projects required for consideration

PREFERRED

Experience in a design-build or remodeling environment (not just new construction or retail) Familiarity with Buildertrend, JobTread, or similar platforms Experience with additions or projects requiring architectural-level drawings Proficiency in SketchUp, Chief Architect, 2020 Design, or rendering tools Prior experience mentoring or leading junior design staff

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES

Own the Design Process Take full ownership of the design department — assess how it currently works, bring structure to it, and improve it Build and maintain a design process that is efficient, organized, and repeatable across all project types Keep design timelines as short as possible without compromising accuracy or client confidence Ensure every project moves from design to construction start on schedule and within budget Client Engagement Lead all client-facing design interactions — initial consultations, design presentations, material selections, and design reviews Ask the right questions upfront to understand client goals, lifestyle, and budget before any design work begins Show clients what they want — using drawings, renderings, samples, or whatever it takes to build confidence and reduce back-and-forth Guide indecisive clients with clarity and patience — offering strong recommendations, narrowing choices, and maintaining momentum Keep clients within budget throughout the design process, flagging cost implications early and offering alternatives Design Development & Documentation Produce and oversee all design deliverables — floor plans, cabinet layouts, elevations, material selections, and construction-ready packages Coordinate with freelance drafters as needed, providing clear direction and reviewing all work before delivery Ensure all drawings and selections are complete, accurate, and ready for construction handoff Maintain organized project files, selections, and documentation in company software Construction Team Communication Work closely with project managers and the construction team to ensure design intent is clearly communicated and understood Attend project handoff meetings and provide full context so the field team knows exactly what they're building Respond promptly to design-related RFIs and field questions during construction Bridge the gap between design and execution — keeping both sides informed and aligned throughout the project Process Improvement & Leadership Identify and implement improvements to the design workflow — tools, templates, timelines, and communication standards Document processes so the design function can scale as the team grows Mentor junior designers as we hire them, setting the standard for how design works at Oak City Homes

SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE

Success means that design runs smoothly. Clients are confident, decisions get made efficiently, and projects move from first meeting to construction start without stalling. Design is no longer a constraint on our growth, it's a competitive advantage. Deliverables are accurate, the construction team always knows what they're building, and clients feel well-guided from start to finish. Within the first year, this person has brought real structure to how we run design and has become a trusted leader on our team.

GROWTH OPPORTUNITY

This role is the foundation of our design department. As Oak City Homes grows, this person grows with us and has the potential to lead a team of designers while owning the full design function. We're a small company investing in the right people for the long term, and this is one of those seats.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Competitive base salary commensurate with experience Opportunities for advancement as the team grows Company phone and computer provided Paid Time Off 401(k) with company match Mileage reimbursement We're a small team with high standards. If you're a seasoned designer who leads with confidence, brings structure to the process, and wants to build something long-term, we'd love to hear from you. Please do not apply if you do not have 5+ years of design experience or are not proficient with technical and industry skills.

Pay:

$70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Paid time off Application Question(s): Are you experienced in CAD?

Education:

Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

Residential Design:

5 years (Required)

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Raleigh, NC 27629