Design Associate Jobs in Kinston, NC (NOW HIRING)

Selections and Design Coordinator

Position Summary

The Selections & Design Specialist is responsible for guiding homeowners through the design selection process while developing and maintaining design packages that align with Unshakable Builders' quality standards, construction schedules, and project budgets. This position serves as the bridge between homeowners, vendors, project management, and construction teams by ensuring every design decision is documented, approved, ordered, and communicated accurately before construction progresses. The role also develops standardized design packages for spec homes that reflect current market trends, budget expectations, and the Unshakable Builders brand.

Position Information

• Position Title: Selections & Design Specialist
• Employment Status: Full-Time
• Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Hours may be adjusted based on workload and homeowner appointments.)
• Reports To: Senior Project Manager
• Works Closely With: Homeowners, Project Managers, Site Superintendents, Vendors, Purchasing, and Executive Leadership

Primary Responsibilities

Guide homeowners through the custom home selections process by scheduling design meetings, educating clients on available products and finishes, and assisting them in making selections that align with their vision, budget, and construction schedule.

Develop, maintain, and periodically update standardized design packages for spec homes based on current market trends, neighborhood positioning, target buyer preferences, vendor offerings, and company budgets. Develop a minimum of two (2) new design concepts each month for review by Executive Leadership.

Coordinate directly with vendors to source materials, verify pricing, confirm availability, monitor lead times, and maintain strong professional relationships that support timely project delivery. Maintain an up-to-date vendor directory containing vendor contacts, pricing information, and product availability.

Prepare and document all homeowner selections within Buildertrend and ensure every selection package is complete, accurate, organized, and approved before procurement begins. No finish selections shall be ordered or installed without complete documentation and required approvals.

Ensure all homeowner communications, approvals, change orders, and design modifications are documented within Buildertrend. Homeowners must approve and sign all selections and change orders before materials are ordered or construction proceeds.

Monitor product lead times and communicate any material shortages, discontinued products, pricing changes, or potential construction delays immediately to the Senior Project Manager. If a selected material is discontinued, a replacement selection must be identified within three (3) business days.

Coordinate ordering of approved materials in accordance with the Company's purchasing procedures and two-step verification policy. No purchases shall be made without proper authorization from management.

Conduct periodic field visits to verify that installed finishes match approved selections, identify discrepancies before project completion, and coordinate corrective action when necessary. No home shall be considered complete until all selections have been verified against the approved design package.

Maintain exceptional customer service throughout the homebuilding process by providing proactive communication, timely follow-up, and a Second Mile Service experience that exceeds homeowner expectations.

Qualifications

• Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Interior Design, Construction Management, Architecture, Marketing, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of two (2) years of experience in residential design, selections coordination, interior design, or custom home construction preferred.
• Strong understanding of residential construction materials and finishes.
• Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience using Buildertrend or similar construction management software preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Valid North Carolina Driver's License and reliable transportation.