Design Studio Specialist

Are you passionate about restaurant design and thrive at the intersection of creativity and organization?

We’re looking for a Design Studio Specialist to join our Store Development Team at Earls Head Office in Vancouver, BC. This hybrid role blends interior design sensibility with project coordination, supporting the successful execution and documentation of our restaurant design initiatives across North America. You’ll collaborate with our Creative Director and Design Manager to bring special projects to life, manage vendor relationships, maintain studio standards, and support installations, rollouts, and renovations. With opportunities to contribute to innovation, sustainability, and process improvements, this role offers an exciting path for someone looking to grow in the hospitality space.

**Role Responsibilities**
- Assist with planning, documentation, and delivery of design initiatives, including seasonal items, custom furnishings, and patio programs.
- Prepare specifications, schedules, and cut sheets as needed to support the delivery of design intent.
- Provide installation support for renovations and new store openings, as needed.
- Support presentation creation, renderings, and document formatting.
- Maintain the sample library and coordinate vendor material requests, returns, and lunch & learn coordination.
- Assist with document management and internal tools such as store executive summaries, info sheets, and Smartsheet.
- Coordinate travel, event, and package logistics for design-related activities and events.
- Serve as a liaison for onboarding new team members and supporting HR and IT-related coordination, including technology testing and rollout.
- Track project schedules and deadlines as they relate to studio initiatives and special projects.
- Support the development and administration of RFPs, including proposal formatting, budgeting, contact tracking, and distribution.
- Assist with vendor account set-up management across key categories such as furniture, planters, landscaping, and lighting.
- Help maintain the studio’s vendor contact list and ensure ongoing relationship management across national suppliers.
- Maintain and update studio standards, including FF&E specifications, light bulb guides, upholstery pricing, patio furniture details, and CAD templates.
- Assist in testing and documenting new materials, products, and specifications for standardization.
- Coordinate with Facilities to support store maintenance through documentation updates and shared Smartsheet tools.
- Assist with upkeep and innovation of operational guides and brand standards, including Store Visual Guideline documentation and new standards rollouts.
- Maintain clear and organized project records, including close-out materials and archives.
- Assist with data input and upkeep of Smartsheet tracking tools, pricing files, and specification sheets.
- Contribute to department-wide initiatives by supporting innovation and helping translate new standards into actionable documents.

**Qualifications**
- A certificate, Diploma, or Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design or a related field.
- Additional education in Construction Management, Architecture, Development Planning, or a related discipline is an asset.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in project management, interior design, or related fields.
- Proven ability to manage and execute multiple projects on tight timelines.
- Skilled in sourcing, specifying, and detailing finishes and FF&E for hospitality environments
- Proficient in project management tools (preference for Smartsheet), Microsoft Office, Google Workspace, and budget management systems.
- Strong communicator with excellent organizational skills and a proactive, detail-driven mindset.
- Experience with SketchUp, Enscape, rendering software, AutoCAD, or Adobe Photoshop would be an asset.
- Familiarity with FF&E acquisition, event planning, or processes related to tax and international importing/exporting would be an asset.
- Prior experience working at Earls or in a restaurant environment is highly valued.
- An interest in sustainable materials and design practices with a desire to explore and innovate in eco-conscious solutions as part of studio standards and material testing initiatives.
- Ability and willingness to travel internationally for project installations and vendor coordination.

**Bonus Points**
- A sense of humour.
- A serious passion for food - we like to eat around here (sometimes wine is involved).
- Open to personal development and growth.
- The drive to succeed and the passion to be a part of Earls growth.
- Big team player - able to be both a leader and also support those around them.

**What We Offer**
- Competitive annual salary ranging from $65,000 to $75,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications, complemented by all the perks and benefits below
- Comprehensive health care benefits effective from your first day
- A healthy lifestyle spending account to support you in living