Under the direction of the Assistant Director of Design and Space Management, the Design Assistant will play a vital role in the Department of Design & Construction (DDC) by contributing to the planning, development, and execution of architectural and interior design projects. This position will provide hands-on assistance in project coordination, design documentation, and stakeholder communication to ensure projects align with the university’s standards for functionality, stewardship, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. The successful candidate will have a keen eye for design, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Duties:

• Design Support: Assist in creating design concepts, space planning, and layouts for DDC-managed projects, including athletic facilities, academic spaces, residential halls, and common areas. Prepare detailed drawings, renderings, and presentations using software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite. 
• Research & Analysis: Conduct material and product research to recommend finishes, furnishings, and design solutions that meet the university's standards for sustainability and durability. Assist with code compliance reviews and accessibility evaluations. 
• Project Coordination: Collaborate with architects, contractors, and university stakeholders to gather input and refine project requirements. - Support the preparation and review of project schedules, budgets, and design deliverables. Maintain project documentation, including drawings, contracts, and change orders, ensuring accuracy and accessibility. 
• Site Support: Participate in site visits to document progress, verify design intent, and address construction-related questions. - Supervise vendor job walks, field inspections, and installations. Assist in preparing punch lists and follow-ups during project closeouts. 
• Administrative Duties: Organize and maintain the design resource library, including samples, catalogs, and specifications. Provide general administrative support as needed, including scheduling meetings and preparing reports.
• Perform other duties as assigned.
• Uphold the University mission through work performed. 

The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.

Skills and Qualifications

Required: Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or a related field, or 2 years of design experience. Strong written and verbal communication skills; strong organizational skills with an emphasis on managing multiple tasks' professional demeanor. Ability to work independently and as part of a team; proven capability to meet deadlines. Proficiency in the Google and Microsoft productivity suites.

Preferred: Knowledge of design principles, construction processes, and building systems. Proficiency in design software, including AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.

Qualified individuals should be able to articulate a strong commitment to diversity, and have the ability to work effectively with individuals from different backgrounds.

Offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of a criminal, education, and employment screening. The University conducts such screenings in compliance with applicable laws and with the objectives of evaluating risk and supporting a safe environment for students, faculty, staff, and guests; safeguarding key University assets including people, property, information, and the University’s reputation; and providing comprehensive job-related information to University leaders to enable them to make prudent hiring decisions. Qualified individuals with criminal histories will be considered for employment in compliance with applicable laws, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.

This is a Restricted, Nonexempt, 40 hour per week position.

Expected Pay Range: $22.50 - $25.00 per hour

The above pay range reflects what Pepperdine University reasonably expects to pay for this position at time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on relevant factors such as work experience, market conditions, education/training, and skill level. In addition to base pay, Pepperdine offers a robust and highly competitive benefits package.

Pepperdine is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of any status or condition protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.