About Ritz Builders
Ritz Builders is a design-build general contractor and home builder specializing in high-end custom homes, major renovations, additions, ADUs, and residential developments throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We are looking for an experienced and highly organized Residential Designer / Project Designer who can independently manage the design and permitting process from the initial client meeting through permit approval and construction support. This is not an entry-level drafting position. We are looking for someone who takes ownership of projects, communicates effectively with clients and consultants, and can move projects through the permitting process with minimal supervision.
Residential Designer / Project Designer
The successful candidate will be responsible for the complete design and permitting process, including:
● Meet with clients to understand project goals and requirements.
● Prepare conceptual designs and space planning.
● Develop complete construction documents for permit and construction.
● Coordinate all project consultants, including: ○ Structural Engineers ○ Civil Engineers ○ Geotechnical Engineers ○ Surveyors ○ Title 24 Consultants ○ Arborists ○ Landscape Architects ○ Energy Consultants ○ MEP Engineers ○ Other specialty consultants as required
● Coordinate directly with city planning and building departments.
● Manage the permit application process from submission through approval.
●Respond to city comments and revise plans accordingly.
● Schedule and lead meetings with homeowners and consultants.
● Maintain project schedules and coordinate deadlines.
● Work closely with our construction team to ensure drawings are buildable.
● Provide design clarification during construction when necessary.
● Ensure all documents comply with California Building Code and local jurisdiction requirements. Qualifications
● Minimum 5 years of experience designing residential projects in California.
● Strong knowledge of California residential building codes.
● Extensive experience obtaining permits in Bay Area jurisdictions.
● Experience with: ○ Custom Homes ○ Home Additions ○ Major Renovations ○ ADUs
● Strong understanding of zoning regulations and planning requirements.
● Ability to coordinate multiple consultants simultaneously.
● Excellent communication and client management skills.
● Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
● Self-motivated and capable of managing multiple projects independently.
Software Requirements
Experience with the following is preferred: ● AutoCAD ● Revit (preferred) ● Bluebeam ● SketchUp ● Microsoft Office ● Adobe Acrobat
Preferred Qualifications
● Degree in Architecture or Architectural Design. ● Licensed Architect is a plus (not required). ● Experience working with a design-build contractor. ● Familiarity with Silicon Valley and Bay Area permitting agencies. ● Knowledge of construction methods and detailing.
What We're Looking For
We want someone who thinks like a project owner—not just a designer.
The ideal candidate is proactive, solution-oriented, and comfortable taking responsibility for moving projects from concept to permit approval while coordinating clients, consultants, and city agencies. You should enjoy solving complex design and permitting challenges and working closely with both homeowners and construction professionals.
Compensation
● Competitive salary based on experience.
● Performance bonuses.
● Opportunity for long-term growth.
● Work on high-end residential projects throughout the Bay Area.
● Collaborative, fast-paced design-build environment
Job Type: Full-time
Base Pay: $80,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year
Ability to Commute:
- Cupertino, CA 95014 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Cupertino, CA 95014: Relocate before starting work (Preferred)
Work Location: In person
