Design Architect

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At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet. We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm. We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things.

• Ideas:
  We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
• Knowledge:
  We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
• Product:
  We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work.
• Individual:
  We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
• Team:
  We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
• Firm:
  We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.

The Designer has responsibility for the quality of design for each project within the established scope of work, program, and budget objectives. Together with the Technical Designer, Project Manager, and/or Project Architect, the Designer is the day-to-day co-leader of the project, with significant responsibilities in the Concept Design through Design Development phases. They lead the production of design deliverables to convey a clear narrative and conceptual framework to internal and external parties.

• Contributes to the design direction and innovation(s) and furthers the development of architectural projects through all phases that are consistent with the scope of work and goals of the firm.
• Integrates criteria and input from all disciplines into design solutions.
• Communicates and maintains standards of quality for design and work products for the full internal and external team.
• Possesses a working understanding of the local parameters and criteria for the project, including relevant local codes. Oversees and leads the design, programmatic, contextual, and cultural research and analysis required for the project.
• Proposes and assesses materials and finishes for the project.
• Leads design documentation including but not limited to drawings, sketches, physical models, renderings, and animations for regular internal and external meetings and milestone deliverables.
• Design documentation should be consistent with firm standards for the publication and presentation of work.
• Drafts a comprehensive design narrative for the project that will inform the client and other disciplines about the design intent, as well as contribute to publications and business development initiatives. Supports the production of the technical specifications for the project.
• Communicates the design goals to the project team on a regular basis.
• Fosters positive relationships with clients and the design community.
• Remains committed to working within the established project budgets, schedules and work plans.
• When applicable, supports the team’s construction phase services scope including making periodic site visits to monitor construction progress and identifying areas needing correction and/or modification; attending visual mockup review; and assisting the Technical Designer in reviewing shop drawings for design intent.
• Attends and presents in owner/architect design meetings. Reviews and approves meeting minutes.
• Attends and facilitates weekly internal project team meetings.
• Works with IT, Marketing, and Records Management to archive all final and preferred drawings,…