Design Assistant/CAD Drafter

Kahala Brands

Posted 13 Oct 2026

Apply

# POSITION SUMMARY: Kahala Brands, a globally recognized leader in quick-service restaurant franchising located in beautiful Scottsdale Arizona, currently has an opportunity for a Design Assistant/CAD Drafter to join the headquarters team. Kahala franchisees and partners operate a portfolio of many quick-service restaurant brands including Cold Stone Creamery, Planet Smoothie, Pinkberry, Blimpie, and Baja Fresh, among others, in over 20 countries around the world. This is an entry to mid-level position and would report to the Director of Design. Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D/V # JOB REQUIREMENTS: - 3 or more years of restaurant design experience. Will consider candidates with college degree in related studies in lieu of experience. - Educational or technical background in drafting, design or architecture experience working in a production firm environment a plus - Architectural building code knowledge is a plus - Design and construction background is a plus - Must be able to review and interpret site information or as-built plans - Generate plans, elevations, and details in AutoCad and PDF formats. These are required software skills. - Detailed understanding of plans, construction documents and engineering disciplines - Detailed knowledge and experience of restaurant equipment and design. - Willingness to work with multiple individuals and diverse franchisee clientele. - Ability to learn and retain brand standards/trade dress for multiple brands. - Must have excellent written, verbal, and organizational skills. Highly organized and detail oriented - Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint and Teams) - Highly proficient in AutoCAD design software is a must including but not limited to block creation, updating and manipulation, layer management, and knowledge of creating drawing templates a plus - Smartsheet PM software experience is a plus # KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: - Develop and/or maintain prototype CAD files for each brand including floor plans, finish details, elevations, ceiling and lighting and millwork details - Maintain equipment spec books for each brand - Maintain design guides for each brand - Create & maintain CAD block libraries for each brand - Draft feasibility test fits on request for unique spaces and/or multi-brands - Assist with drafting plans for remodels, office updates, and other internal projects - Collaborate closely with the design and construction team to ensure alignment - Standardize brand prototype filing system - Assist restaurant design managers with unique project requests as needed PRE-CONSTRUCTION - Create proposed space “Test Fit” and other plans in AutoCad and PDF formats. - Provide support as needed to individual architects during the entire development process. PLAN & DESIGN - Create and manage process checklists and forms as needed for each project. REFRESH, REMODEL AND RELOCATION PROJECTS - Generate and update RF/RM guides, specifications, and requirements. - Review and redline remodel/reconfigured plans produced by architects while maintaining a variety of existing conditions, equipment, and requests. OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES - New product and material search - Transition newly acquired brands into the Kahala development system. - Maintain and organize project files for all brands. Benefits (*Subject to Change*): - 401(k) matching, including Roth options - 3 Medical insurance plans - Dental insurance - Vision insurance - Employee assistance program - Flexible spending account - Health savings account - Life insurance - Short-term disability insurance - Long-term disability insurance - Paid time off (10 holidays, 3 weeks PTO) - Tuition reimbursement - Referral program - Wellness programs - Hybrid work schedule

Locations

Keywords