Description
Plan, design, and specify residential and commercial kitchens that are functional, safe, and visually cohesive. Create layouts, finishes, and specifications tailored to workflows, appliances, storage, and budgets; may specialize in custom cabinetry, styles, or renovation phases.
- • Estimate material requirements and costs; present concepts, finish palettes, and 3D renderings for client approval.
- • Consult with clients to determine cooking habits, storage needs, appliance preferences, budget, and style.
- • Develop space plans and cabinet layouts optimizing workflow, clearances, and ergonomics.
- • Select cabinetry, countertops, backsplash, fixtures, flooring, hardware, lighting, and finishes.
- • Specify appliances and integrate them with proper clearances, ventilation, plumbing, and electrical needs.
- • Produce detailed floor plans, elevations, sections, and cabinet shop drawings using CAD or kitchen design software.
- • Coordinate with contractors, architects, cabinetmakers, fabricators, plumbers, electricians, and appliance vendors.
- • Review and approve shop drawings, countertop templates, and field measurements.
- • Plan locations for plumbing, electrical circuits, task/ambient/undercabinet lighting, and ventilation hoods.
- • Ensure compliance with building codes, safety standards, GFCI requirements, and ADA/universal design or NKBA guidelines.
- • Visit job sites to verify conditions, take field measurements, and inspect installations for adherence to plans and quality.
- • Specify sustainable, low-VOC, and durable materials; recommend water- and energy-efficient appliances and fixtures.
- • Manage orders, lead times, and deliveries for cabinets, appliances, and finishes; resolve field issues and change orders.
- • Prepare specifications, finish schedules, and hardware schedules.
- • Research new materials, smart-kitchen technologies, hardware, and fabrication methods.
- • Prepare permit documents or support permit applications as required.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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Last reviewed: Jan 2026
