Architectural Designer - Graduate - Americas Offices

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER I - 2026 NEW GRADUATE

Location: Various Americas Offices

Final date to receive applications: March 13th, 2026 (or when positions are filled). Interviews will begin on a rolling basis starting in January.

Who We Are: We design places where people love to be together. Populous is a global design firm that began with a singular focus: to draw people together around the things they love, through experiences that capture all the senses, amplifying the atmosphere of excitement and pure joy shared in human moments. We’ve designed and delivered some of the world’s most memorable civic, sports and entertainment buildings, from iconic stadia to groundbreaking live music venues.

Populous is where architects and designers of all kinds create moments bigger than ourselves.

• Professional & Personal Development Programs
• Summer Hours
• Hybrid Schedule
• Paid Architect Licensure & Certifications Exams
• Wedding Pay
• Charitable Match Program
• Market Leading Wellness Health and Welfare Benefits

The preferred candidate will have an interest in working in a dynamic and collaborative global design environment with a diverse range of public assembly building types, including sports venues, convention centers, community buildings and transportation facilities. We are seeking May 2026 graduates for a full‑time entry-level design position in multiple locations.

• Conceptualization and development of design ideas, generating diagrams, digital models, and presentation materials and providing production work for numerous project types.
• Research and development projects.
• Collaboratively reviewing and critiquing early phase design concepts.
• Production of design development and construction documents, models, construction details and drawings.
• Preparation of design presentations to clients, communities, and other pertinent stakeholders.

• Proficiency and working knowledge in 3D modeling and rendering in any of the following software:
  Rhino, Sketch Up, V‑Ray, Lumion, Enscape, Unreal Engine, Twinmotion, D5, Grasshopper; computational design knowledge is a plus.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Proficiency in Revit.
• Proficiency and working knowledge in digital image editing and layout using Adobe suite applications (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign). Video editing knowledge is a plus.
• Ability to express information verbally and in writing in a clear and accurate manner.
• Basic hand drawing and illustration skills.
• Strong communication skills and work ethic; demonstrated efficiency, flexibility and desire to grow and work within a dynamic team while being able to self‑manage and work independently.

• Bachelor of Architecture degree (required) from a NAAB accredited program. Master of Architecture (preferred).

• Travel may be required.
• Overtime may be necessary.

Populous offers a competitive salary and bonus packages. We strive to offer our staff the best benefits package in the industry, at the lowest cost to employees, including medical, dental and vision coverage, 401k, FSA/HSA, paid time off and continuing education benefits.

Populous is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local laws.

Find us here:

• No. 1 Most Innovative Company in Architecture by Fast Company
• No. 1 Firm in Cultural on Interior Design Magazine’s Top 100 Giants
• No. 1 Architecture Firm in Cultural Facilities by BD+C
• No. 1 Architecture Firm in Convention Centers by BD+C
• No. 1 Architecture Firm in Performing Arts and Concert Venues by BD+C