Designer II

Deceder Group is searching for a Designer II with 6-8 years of experience to be part of a talented and close-knit group of architects & interior designers, working in a collaborative environment managing a wide range of exciting commercial projects.

As an expanding firm, there is plenty of growth potential for the ideal candidate to expand their professional network. Deceder Group strongly encourages and supports professional growth through obtaining certifications and completion of continuing education and participating in networking & business development events. All team members have a voice to influence the firm's overall direction. 

Project types include:

• Commercial Workspaces (Professional Services, Non-Profits, Association Tech and Corporate Headquarters, Government Contractors, SCIF design, etc)
• Light Medical (Family Practice, Physical Therapist, Dental, Eye Doctor, Specialist, etc.)
• Capital Expenditure (Spec Suite, Roof terrace, conference center, lounges, building lobby renovations, etc.)
• Base building renovations (Building additions, façade renovations, core element reconfiguration, etc.)

Deceder group is proud to offer a comprehensive benefits package including;

• Unlimited PTO policy
• Healthcare, dental & vision benefits, supplemented by firm.
• 3 months paid parental leave
• 401K retirement program with matching
• Commuting reimbursement
• Reimbursement for professional licensure & accreditations

Deceder Group embraces a hybrid environment, with up to 2 days allowed to WFH per week. We believe in the importance of in-person collaboration while balancing the ability to complete other tasks from the location of your choice. When in the office, Deceder Group's in an exciting and accessible location in the Ballston area of Arlington, complete with snacks, Nespresso, and additional onsite amenities. Please note that it is expected that new team members are in the office more often to get acclimated with the team and projects.

Daily Responsibilities include:

• Field verify & document existing building conditions
• Develop functional requirements and identify project design complexities
• Create preliminary planning documents, including Program of Requirements, Test Fits and Pricing Notes
• Select materials and create design package to communicate schematic design intent.
• Develop detailed design concepts, produce construction documents, interpret building code requirements and articulate client needs
• Review work with other disciplines
• Assist other Designers, and work in all phases of the interior design & architectural process
• Update AutoCAD and / or Revit templates as directed
• Additionally, act as a team player in a growing firm by performing additional responsibilities as required

Skills / Knowledge / Abilities

Technical Skills

Demonstrates independent proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD with ability to produce construction documents with minimal oversight. Collaborate on AutoDesk Construction Cloud for coordination and cloud-based workflows, while tracking project time and tasks in MonoGraph. Beginning to troubleshoot technical issues and assist Designer I & II with software questions.

• Revit 2023 or later – All projects Deceder Group completes are done in Revit
• AutoDesk Architecture 2024 or later – Working knowledge required
• Enscape
• InDesign
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Knowledge of code requirements (International Building Code, ADA, NFPA, etc.)

Project Management Capabilities

Manages multiple concurrent tasks across different project phases with minimal supervision and proactively communicates potential scheduling conflicts. Understand budget implications of design decisions and participates in internal project coordination meetings. Tracks deliverable schedules and contributes to quality control reviews.

• Motivated, professional, and able to contribute and participate in a highly collaborative team environment
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, growing organization and multi-task various projects
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Methodical and disciplined approach to work, with an eye on innovation and efficiency
• Exceptional writing, verbal, and organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail

Business Development Contributions 

Produces portfolio-worthy work and provides project information to the marketing manager when requested for proposals. Participates in project pitches / interviews to win new work. Participates in office tours and project presentations when requested, representing the firm professionally. Begin building awareness of firm's services, market sectors, and competitive positioning. Attends various networking and educational events on a regular basis.

Licensure/Certifications

For Architectural Designer, licensed architect preferred or progressing through AXP requirements with documented experience hours in multiple practice areas. Actively taking or planning to begin ARE exams with firm support and study time accommodation.

For Interior Designer: NCIDQ registered preferred or on path to achieve certification.

LEED GA, WELL or other specialty certifications encouraged but not required.

Soft Skills

Communicates clearly and confidently with clients, consultants, and team members both verbally and in writing. Develops problem-solving skills to navigate design and coordination challenges, escalating issues appropriately when needed.

Leadership and Mentorship

Actively mentors junior Designer staff through project collaboration, technical skill development, and career guidance. Leads coordination efforts for project components or phases, demonstrating ability to organize tasks and communicate expectations clearly. Begins to develop leadership voice within project teams and contributes to firm culture.