INTERMEDIATE DESIGNERNew York City | In-Studio
Position OverviewS9 Architecture is seeking an Intermediate Designer to play a central role in shaping and advancing architectural ideas across a diverse range of project types and scales. This position is ideal for a design-driven architect with strong judgment, conceptual rigor, and a deep interest in architecture as a contextual, collaborative, and iterative practice.
Intermediate Designers at S9 work closely with Design Principals and project teams in an open, dialogue-driven studio environment. The role involves generating and refining ideas from early concept through execution, while helping guide junior designers through shared authorship, critique, and mentorship. This is a long-term opportunity for a designer who wants to grow design leadership within a thoughtful, design-intensive studio culture.
Key Responsibilities - Lead design exploration across multiple scales and project types, including massing, urban response, spatial organization, design narrative, and architectural detail.
- Guide multiple projects alongside junior designers, in close collaboration with Design Principals and technical teams.
- Coordinate with the team to ensure design intent is thoughtfully carried through design development.
- Mentor and support junior designers through critique, guidance, and example.
- Actively participate in studio pin-ups, reviews, and ongoing design dialogue.
- Contribute to a studio culture that values design excellence, clear communication, and realistic project planning.
Qualifications - 5-10 years of experience in design-forward architecture studios.
- Experience in design-oriented offices with a strong culture of critique, collaboration, and craft.
- Demonstrated ability to develop strong architectural concepts and carry them through multiple project phases.
- Strong understanding of urban context, zoning, massing, spatial sequencing, and architectural systems.
- Clear verbal, graphic, and visual communication skills.
- Comfort working within regulatory, structural, and programmatic constraints as part of a collaborative process.
- Interest in mentorship, collaboration, and long-term growth within a studio environment.
- Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States.
What We Offer - Salary range: $85,000-$125,000+, commensurate with experience
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental benefits
- 401(k) with employer match
- Licensure support and continuing education
- A collaborative, in-studio culture with direct access to leadership and meaningful design dialogue
- A studio environment that values design rigor alongside sustainable work practices
- Opportunities for meaningful design responsibility and professional growth
To ApplyPlease submit a resume and portfolio demonstrating strong conceptual work, design development, and collaborative project experience. Submissions without a work sample will not be reviewed.
