Architect

Job Title: Architectural Professional II Job Description This role offers an experienced Architectural Professional II the opportunity to lead and support small to mid-sized projects, including K-12, civic, mixed-use, and higher education facilities, from concept through construction. You will work on both ground-up and renovation projects, managing full project phases from schematic design through construction administration in Revit. The position combines design excellence, technical rigor, and project leadership within a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment, with strong exposure to the full design-build and construction process. Responsibilities Lead and actively contribute to the design development process from conceptual design through detailed documentation, ensuring that the original design intent is maintained throughout all project phases. Work on full project phases from schematic design (SD) through construction administration (CA) using Revit, producing coordinated and accurate documentation. Coordinate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including engineering, construction, and consultants, to ensure seamless integration of architectural, structural, MEP, and other project elements. Independently produce, refine, and manage drawings, 3D models, and construction documents, ensuring they align with project requirements, building codes, and industry standards. Participate actively in client meetings and presentations, clearly communicating design intent, technical solutions, and project updates in a professional and engaging manner. Research materials, building systems, and design trends, integrating innovative and practical solutions into project designs. Review design and technical documentation for accuracy and completeness, conducting quality checks and proactively identifying and resolving design and technical challenges. Provide guidance, mentorship, and support to junior architectural staff, fostering a collaborative, learning-focused team culture. Advocate for and integrate sustainable design practices into projects, supporting the firm's commitment to environmentally responsible architecture. Support project delivery by managing individual workstreams, aligning tasks with project milestones, and contributing to schedule and budget adherence. Perform general office responsibilities such as library and materials upkeep and assisting in the development and maintenance of project and BIM standards. Participate in cross-disciplinary career development activities, collaborating with other teams to broaden professional skills and project exposure. Engage in continuous learning opportunities, including internal training sessions and industry events, to enhance professional skills and knowledge. Adapt to various roles within a project, stepping into leadership or support positions as needed while consistently performing at a high level. Proactively handle tasks beyond the primary scope of work and adjust to changing priorities to support project success, team collaboration, and overall firm excellence. Collaborate with senior architects or project managers in day-to-day project management, ensuring effective communication, coordination, and project progress. Coordinate and attend occasional local travel to job sites as needed to observe construction progress, support construction administration, and maintain alignment between design and field conditions. Essential Skills Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture from an accredited program. 5-8 years of professional experience in an architectural firm, with a strong background in project leadership, design development, and technical documentation. Proficiency in Revit for full project phases from schematic design through construction administration. Experience producing comprehensive construction documents and administering construction-phase services. Strong capabilities in schematic design and design development, with demonstrated design and analytical problem-solving skills. Proficiency with Enscape for visualization and design communication. Proficiency with Bluebeam for document review, markup, and coordination. Experience with Procore or similar construction management software. Proficiency with Adobe Creative Suite for presentations, graphics, and design communication. Proficiency with Microsoft Office for documentation, reporting, and communication. Exceptional design capabilities and advanced technical knowledge across multiple project types. Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage workstreams, meet milestones, and support schedule and budget adherence. Extensive understanding of building codes, construction methods, materials, and sustainable design principles. Demonstrated experience working in a collaborative, interdisciplinary environment with an integrated design and delivery focus. Demonstrated ability to generate innovative design solutions that balance aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability. Strong communication skills for client interaction, consultant coordination, and internal team collaboration. Ability to work independently with a high degree of self-direction, professional drive, and passion for high-quality design. Ability to lead and motivate teams, providing guidance and mentorship to junior staff. Willingness and ability to perform occasional local travel to job sites as required. Additional Skills & Qualifications Experience working on K-12 and higher education projects, including ground-up and renovation work. Experience with civic, mixed-use, and municipal projects such as police and fire stations. Exposure to sporting facility projects, including college baseball stadiums and turf football fields. Experience within a design-build or integrated architecture, engineering, and construction environment. Familiarity with integrated project delivery processes and close collaboration with structural, MEP, civil, and construction teams. Interest in sustainable design and experience contributing to projects with high-performance or LEED-focused goals. Comfort working within an open, collaborative office environment with multiple active project teams. Enthusiasm for continuous learning, professional development, and participation in internal training and industry events. Ability to adapt quickly to changing priorities and project needs while maintaining a high standard of work. Interest in cross-disciplinary career development and exposure to the full construction process. Work Environment The role is based in large, spacious offices located in Darien, IL and Chicago, IL, featuring an open floor plan with cubicle layout, abundant natural light, and a LEED Platinum-certified building. The office provides ample parking, including preferred parking for hybrid vehicles near the front entrance, and a kitchen with a microwave and seating area for meals and informal collaboration. The team operates within a design-build, fully integrated architecture, engineering, and construction environment, giving employees direct exposure to the full construction process and the opportunity to work with a variety of disciplines across the firm. The normal schedule follows a flexible hybrid model, with four days in the office and one day working from home. Monday through Thursday are typically 9-hour days in the office, and Friday is a half day worked remotely, generally from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Employees can expect a minimum of 40 hours per week, with occasional overtime depending on project needs. The architecture team in Darien includes more than 80 professionals, providing a robust and collaborative peer group. Day-to-day work is guided by senior architects or project managers, with many opportunities for mentorship and cross-team collaboration. The dress code is business professional to business casual from Monday through Thursday, with a slightly more relaxed standard on Friday half days. The firm offers a strong pipeline of work with a significant backlog for at least the next two years, standard paid holidays, and three weeks of paid time off, including dedicated sick time. The culture emphasizes collaboration, social connection, and work-life balance, with frequent company outings and social events supporting a positive and engaging work environment. Job Type & Location This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Darien, IL. Pay and Benefits The pay range for this position is $72000.00 - $86000.00/hr. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace Type This is a hybrid position in Darien,IL. Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Jul 1, 2026. About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email View email address on click.appcast.io for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.