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Restaurant Designer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Fresh, flavorful American fare is served in our beautiful restaurants designed to feel like your home away from home. Daily Grill features seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients prepared in ...

Fresh, flavorful American fare is served in our beautiful restaurants designed to feel like your home away from home. Daily Grill features seasonal menus with locally-sourced ingredients prepared in ...

... owned restaurant business and Southern California based company since 1945. King's Fish House ... Our craft cocktails, extensive wine list, and raw bar offerings are designed to impress and keep ...

... owned restaurant business and Southern California based company since 1945. King's Fish House ... Our craft cocktails, extensive wine list, and raw bar offerings are designed to impress and keep ...

... owned restaurant business and Southern California based company since 1945. King's Fish House ... Our craft cocktails, extensive wine list, and raw bar offerings are designed to impress and keep ...

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Restaurant Designer information

See California salary details

$18.8K

$55.1K

$117.4K

How much do restaurant designer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for restaurant designer in California is $55,129.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $39,500.00 and $56,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does a restaurant designer typically collaborate with clients and other professionals during a project?

A restaurant designer works closely with clients, architects, contractors, and branding teams throughout the design process. Early stages involve gathering client input on concept, functionality, and budget, followed by regular meetings to review layouts, materials, and progress. Collaboration with engineers and contractors ensures design feasibility and compliance with safety or accessibility regulations. Effective communication and teamwork are key to translating client vision into a cohesive, operational space that meets industry standards.

How much do restaurant designers make?

Restaurant designers typically earn between $50,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and project complexity. Senior designers or those with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially when working on large or high-end establishments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant designer?

To thrive as a Restaurant Designer, you need expertise in interior design, spatial planning, and an understanding of hospitality trends, usually supported by a degree in interior design or architecture. Proficiency with design software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite, as well as knowledge of building codes and regulations, is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help you collaborate effectively with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders. These skills ensure that functional, visually compelling, and compliant restaurant spaces are delivered on time and within budget, directly impacting the dining experience and business success.

What is the difference between Restaurant Designer vs Restaurant Architect?

AspectRestaurant DesignerRestaurant Architect
CredentialsDesign degree, interior design certificationArchitecture degree, architecture license
Work EnvironmentInterior spaces, aesthetics, layoutBuilding structures, compliance, structural design
Industry UsageFocus on interior ambiance and customer experienceFocus on building design, safety, and regulations
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Restaurant Designers primarily focus on the interior aesthetics, layout, and ambiance of restaurant spaces, ensuring a welcoming environment. Restaurant Architects, on the other hand, are responsible for the structural design, building safety, and compliance with regulations. While both roles collaborate during restaurant projects, their core responsibilities and credentials differ significantly.

What does a restaurant designer do?

A restaurant designer plans and creates the interior layout and aesthetic of restaurant spaces to enhance functionality and customer experience. They collaborate with clients, architects, and contractors, often using design software like AutoCAD or SketchUp, and may need knowledge of building codes and safety regulations.
What are popular job titles related to Restaurant Designer jobs in California? For Restaurant Designer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Restaurant Designer jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Restaurant Designer jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Restaurant Designer jobs? Cities in California with the most Restaurant Designer job openings:
Infographic showing various Restaurant Designer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,129 per year, or $26.5 per hour.

Graphic Designer Restaurant

Brandtailers LLC

Newport Beach, CA โ€ข On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • Competitive salary
  • Free food & snacks
  • Health insurance
  • Opportunity for advancement
  • Paid time off
  • Vision insurance

We’re looking for a full-time creative (located near Newport Beach, CA) who can bring restaurant brands to life through strong graphic design, and motion graphics is a bonus. PORTFOLIO REQUIRED
What You’ll Do:

  •  Create Content: graphics, promos, menus, and marketing materials for restaurants 
  •  Maintain a consistent, on-brand look across all content 
What We’re Looking For:

  •  Strong graphic design skills (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.) 
  •  Eye for detail, lighting, and composition (food + automotive is a plus) 
  •  Ability to work quickly and meet deadlines 
  •  Self-starter who can take direction but also bring creative ideas 
Bonus If You Have:

  •  Previous work with restaurants
  •  Experience shooting content (photo/video) 
  •  Understanding of social media trends and what performs well 

To Apply:
Send a short intro, your portfolio (REQUIRED) (especially food or automotive work), and your rates.