Summary:The Senior Architectural Designer is a key member of the design studio, working within a collaborative team to deliver high-quality architectural services for multi-site retail and QSR (quick-service restaurant) clients. This role is responsible for producing precise, fully coordinated construction documents and supporting team members in achieving overall project goals.
The ideal candidate brings 3-5+ years of professional experience with a strong focus on commercial construction documentation, along with efficient and proficient use of Revit for 3D modeling and documentation workflows. Experience with Revit family creation and visualization tools such as Enscape is highly desirable.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:- Prepare complete, accurate, and code-compliant construction documents for commercial projects.
- Develop and manage Revit models, including:
- Efficient 3D modeling for construction documentation
- Creation and modification of Revit families as needed
- Use of Enscape (or similar tools) to support visualization and design communication
- Provide technical and creative design solutions aligned with project program and client objectives.
- Determine appropriate building systems, materials, and component applications.
- Manage and meet project schedules, deadlines, and deliverables across multiple concurrent projects.
- Assist the Project Manager in coordinating with consultants, contractors, fabricators, specification writers, and regulatory agencies.
- Identify and communicate changes in project scope, including recommendations for change orders.
- Maintain working knowledge of building codes, zoning requirements, and ADA compliance.
- Conduct project due diligence with municipalities and regulatory agencies.
- Respond to and resolve plan review comments from code officials.
- Serve as a technical liaison to consultants, suppliers, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
- Review and evaluate team member work, providing constructive feedback and technical direction.
- Support and mentor junior staff, contributing to team development.
- Participate in NCARB's Architectural Experience Program (AXP) if applicable.
- Work independently or with minimal supervision on complex, large-scale projects.
- Participate in client meetings and perform site visits to verify conditions and scope.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Qualifications: - Bachelor's degree in Architecture (B.Arch or equivalent)
- Minimum 4 years of professional architectural experience, with a strong emphasis on commercial construction document production
- Licensed Architect or actively pursuing licensure (preferred)
- Strong working proficiency in Revit (required), including 3D modeling for construction documents, ability to create or modify Revit families, model coordination and documentation workflows
- Experience with QSR / restaurant clients, including prototype adaptation, rollout programs, and coordination with franchise or brand standards
- Experience with Enscape or similar visualization tools preferred
- Proficiency in AutoCAD (required)
- Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Experience with Photoshop, SketchUp, Smartsheet, 3Ds Max is a plus.
Pay & Benefits:The anticipated compensation range for the position is $75,000 to $90,000 is based on a full-time schedule, market and business conditions, and is commensurate on individual education, qualifications, and experience. Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurances, flexible paid time off, paid holidays, sick time, and a matching 401K plan.
Work Conditions & Travel:This is a hybrid role out of our Downers Grove, IL headquarters. A highly collaborative environment that flourishes when individual and team contributions combine to achieve target goals and objectives. The workplace is dynamic, fast-paced, and flexible.
