Project Architect

Project Architect

The Project Architect develops thoughtful interior and architectural design solutions that align with client goals while leading projects across all phases from schematic design through construction administration. This role coordinates closely with consultants and internal teams, manages multiple projects and team members, and ensures high-quality construction documentation and delivery. The Project Architect also plays a key role in client engagement, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to a collaborative, community-focused design practice.

Responsibilities

• Develop interior and architectural design solutions that meet client goals and project requirements.
• Lead and coordinate all phases of projects, including schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding and permitting, and construction administration.
• Participate in and lead coordination efforts with consultants, including MEP and other disciplines, to ensure integrated and efficient project delivery.
• Coordinate and oversee the work of interior design and architectural project team members, providing direction and ensuring alignment with project objectives.
• Provide mentorship, guidance, and feedback to junior team members to support their professional growth and development.
• Participate actively in client meetings, present design concepts, and communicate project progress and decisions clearly and professionally.
• Create detailed plans, 3D renderings, presentation drawings, and finish boards to support design communication and client presentations.
• Take responsibility for the production of construction documentation, including quality checking your own work and the work of team members for accuracy and completeness.
• Participate in the submittal process, including preparing addenda sketches and drawing revisions as needed during the course of the project.
• Assist with the permitting process, including coordination with local jurisdictions and preparation of required documentation.
• Participate in punch-list walk-throughs and support the closeout of projects to ensure design intent and quality standards are met.
• Function as Project Manager when needed, including planning and managing schedules, hours, workload, deadlines, budgeting, and QA/QC for multiple projects.
• Apply knowledge of building codes and standard construction methods to ensure compliant, constructible, and efficient design solutions.
• Travel locally approximately twice per month to project sites and client meetings as needed.
• Document and communicate weekly in-office days on the team board in alignment with the hybrid work expectations.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or Interior Design from an accredited university.
• Approximately 8+ years of relevant professional experience (flexible).
• Proficiency in Revit and Enscape, with the ability to use these tools to develop plans, models, and visualizations.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Demonstrated experience working independently across all project phases, including schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding and permitting, and construction administration.
• Experience leading and managing a team and multiple projects, including scheduling, hours, workload, deadlines, budgeting, and QA/QC.
• Relevant project experience in K-12 education, workplace, municipal, or library projects.
• Experience with both ground-up and renovation projects.
• Ability to own and operate independently across all project phases while coordinating with internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience functioning as a Project Manager, overseeing project delivery and team performance.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and standard construction methods.
• Ability and willingness to travel locally approximately two times per month.
• Collaborative, outgoing, and strong communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
• Ability to fit and contribute positively to a family-oriented, collaborative, and community-focused studio culture.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Professional licensure is preferred.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• Experience using Deltek for project management and project tracking.
• Prior experience with renovation-focused projects in sectors such as K-12 education, libraries, municipal facilities (fire stations, police stations, town halls), recreation (park district amenities), and workplace environments.
• Interest in mentoring junior team members and contributing to a low-turnover, long-term growth environment.
• Motivation to pursue licensure or additional certifications, supported by paid time off for exams, access to study materials, and reimbursement for licensure and certification costs upon completion.

Work Environment

This role is based in a well-established architecture and interior design firm located in the heart of downtown Chicago, near a major landmark in the central…