Empire and Co. is a leader in delivering innovative workplace solutions nationwide. With over 80 years of industry experience and more than 565 full-time employees, we partner with leading architects, designers, brokers, craftsmen, and manufacturers to create high-performing, cost-effective environments that solve business challenges and activate brands.
Our continued growth reflects our commitment to operational excellence, client service, and delivering complex projects with precision and professionalism.
Empire and Co. is currently seeking a Designer / Product Application Specialist to join our team in our Atlanta office. This position will hold responsibilities to provide design services to dealership customers including programming, space planning, development of topicals, color boards, and digital presentations.
The Designer / Product Application Specialist will work closely with internal teams and clients to develop accurate furniture plans, specifications, and design solutions that align with project objectives and client expectations.
Create drawings and specifications in CET (ex: Topicals, Furniture plans, 3D Renderings)
Revise drawings and specs when required
Prepare installation drawings and supporting documents
Provide consistent updates to Director of Design
Work closely with dealership sales and sales admins to ensure accurate plans and specifications
Assist with finish selection and create digital sample boards
Spec check other team members’ work as needed
Meet with clients, in person or virtually, to understand the clients’ objectives, desires, and design within their allocated budget
Identify areas that need field verification and coordinate actual dimensions with final plan
Inventory existing product; incorporate in furniture plans and specifications
Maintain internal reporting systems (i.e. time sheets, tracking design time, project files)
Follow Empire and Co. Design department guidelines and standards for deliverables and filing of projects
Adhere to deadlines of key deliverables
Attend industry events as necessary
Continuing education related to product updates and industry trends
At least 5 years of dealership experience in the commercial contract furniture industry preferred
Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design, Architecture or related field
Proficient in CET, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office Suite
Knowledge of contract furniture lines
Working knowledge of applicable building codes, ADA regulations, National Electrical Code, National Fire Code, etc.
Experience with Steelcase products a plus
Must be comfortable visiting job sites to take basic field dimensions and furniture inventory
Excellent creative thinking, problem solving skills, and attention to detail
Proven organizational and follow-through skills
Strong time management skills and ability to multi-task within a fast-paced environment
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with clients, manufacturers reps, and team members
Strong presentation skills and must be comfortable attending meetings and interacting with customers, designers, architects, and contractors
Works well in a team environment, and ability to work longer hours as needed to support team and meet customer expectations
