Head of Design & Pre-Construction

Job Overview

We’re not looking for a typical designer—and this is not a drafting-only role.
We’re looking for someone who can own the entire design-to-construction process and ensure every project is delivered with clear, buildable documentation.At Ashton Pools By Design, we create high-end custom pools and complete outdoor living environments. This role is critical to ensuring that what is designed can be built efficiently, accurately, and profitably.

Responsibilities

• Full responsibility for construction documentation and design-to-build execution
• Development and production of complete construction document (CD) sets
• Oversight of HOA submittals and permitting packages
• Creation of takeoffs, scopes, and design-to-build handoffs
• Establishing and maintaining standards for plan quality and consistency
• Collaboration with designers, sales, project managers, and field teams

Requirements

• Proven experience in construction management or a related field with a strong background in design leadership and pre-construction planning.
• Hands-on experience with construction site activities including site visits, safety protocols, and coordination with field teams.
• Effective communication skills for liaising with clients, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams at all levels.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency.
• Translate design concepts into fully buildable, construction-ready plans
• Produce and enforce complete plan sets including: Dimensioned layouts, elevations and grading intent, Material specifications, Key construction details
• Ensure proper integration of: Custom pools, Hardscape and outdoor living features, Drainage and site conditions
• Identify and resolve design issues before they reach the field

Non-Negotiable Requirements

• Proven ability to produce full, buildable construction document sets
• Strong proficiency in:
• AutoCAD *(required)*
• Structure Studios (VIP3D / Pool Studio) or similar
• SketchUp and/or Revit
• Experience with:
• Residential design-build projects
• HOA submittals and permitting
• Strong understanding of:
• Custom pool construction and integration
• Grading, drainage, and layout
• Outdoor living systems (kitchens, patios, shade structures, lighting, irrigation)

Experience / Background

• 5–10+ years in:
• Landscape architecture
• Pool or outdoor living design
• Design-build firms
• Demonstrated experience owning or leading design documentation and pre-construction processes

Ideal backgrounds include (but are not limited to):
Landscape Architecture, Architecture, Outdoor Living Design, or Design-Build*Degree preferred but not required.*

Important – Application RequirementsApplicants must submit examples of completed construction document sets.
Renderings or concept-only portfolios will not be considered.Candidates must be able to:

• Clearly demonstrate ownership of submitted work
• Walk through their drawings and explain how the project is built step-by-step

Who This Role Is NOT For

• Designers focused primarily on renderings or concept visuals
• Candidates without experience producing full construction documents
• Individuals who rely on others to complete technical drawings
• Anyone unable to explain how their plans translate to real-world construction

What We’re Looking For

• Highly detail-oriented and organized
• Thinks like a builder, not just a designer
• Takes ownership and accountability for results
• Capable of building systems and improving processes
• Strong communicator across office and field teams

Why This Role MattersThis role directly impacts field performance, job profitability, and overall execution. You will set the standard for how projects move from design to reality.If you’re confident in your ability to produce real construction-ready plans and lead the pre-construction process—we want to talk.

Pay: $80,000.00 - $99,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Education:

• Bachelor's (Preferred)

Experience:

• Structure Studio : 5 years (Required)
• AutoCAD: 5 years (Required)
• SketchUp: 3 years (Preferred)
• Revit: 3 years (Preferred)
• Landscape Architect: 5 years (Preferred)

Work Location: In person