Design Co-op

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves:
What is our impact on the world?

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Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

We believe architecture is more than designing buildings, it’s about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Architecture practice at HDR, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them.

We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities.

As a firm working on a wide variety of Architectural projects of varying scales and scopes, we look for Co-op students who are self-motivated learners and are looking to get the most out of their term, possess strong communication skills, the ability to work as a team on and off projects, and the drive to bring innovative suggestions to the table as we push for a sustainable future.

Our Ottawa office is a team of approximately 20 people working with clients in the Healthcare, Post-Secondary Education, Science and Technology and Civic sectors.

The role of the Coop student within the office would be to work with the Lead Architect and other team members on a variety of tasks throughout the design and construction process. Tasks could include, depending on student's experience and proficiency, assisting in production of schematic design, design development and contract documents including preparation of floor plans, elevations, details, sections and schedules;

producing 3D views, renderings and VR walkthroughs; applying architectural procedures and techniques; independently perform architectural assignments with instruction from senior team members; working on contract administration duties; attending site visits and/or client meetings and creating proper documentation for conversations had; and partaking in architectural design conversations, exercises, and other general duties.

• 1 year completed toward degree with 3.0+ GPA
• Demonstrated knowledge of software packages related to field of study/industry
• Ability in multi-tasking while maintaining high levels of proficiency.
• Well organized with an attitude and commitment to being an active participant of the team.

• Must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program
• Must possess strong problem-solving and communication skills
• Basic Microsoft Office skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black,…