Director of Architecture

Job Description

Job Description

Director of Architecture – Lead Metal Building Architectural Strategy for A.B. Systems, Inc.

Job Overview:

• Company: A.B. Systems, Inc.
• Salary/Pay Rate: $140,000 - $175,000 yr plus Bonuses
• Location: Rochester, MN
• Job/Employment Type: Full Time
• Project Scope: Commercial Construction & Metal Buildings
• Mandatory Licences & Certifications: Minnesota Architecture License 

The Opportunity :

You will drive architectural strategy and client design solutions for an established, 100% employee-owned leader in commercial construction. This high-impact role allows you to combine technical design leadership with executive client engagement to deliver complex structural builds. You will shape project outcomes from initial concept through execution while directly benefiting from company growth through employee ownership.

How You Will Make an Impact:

• Lead the overall architectural design strategy for commercial and industrial projects across all build phases.
• Serve as the primary client-facing architectural authority to guide owners through design options and revisions.
• Oversee the seamless integration of pre-engineered metal building systems into custom commercial plans.
• Collaborate closely with field superintendents to ensure buildability and maintain design intent on-site.
• Direct external design partners, engineering consultants, and internal staff to hit key project deadlines.
• Review drawings and specifications to proactively resolve any plan conflicts prior to construction.

Required Qualifications & Experience:

• Extensive professional experience managing architectural design specifically within commercial construction.
• Direct hands-on expertise with pre-engineered metal building systems and custom structural steel applications, as well as conventional construction.
• Proven track record in a client-facing role presenting complex design solutions directly to project owners.
• Comprehensive understanding of commercial building code, zoning laws, and structural requirements.
• Advanced proficiency in architectural design software, BIM, and technical construction documentation.

Preferred Qualifications & Experience:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or a related structural design field.
• Professional Registered Architect (RA) license or NCARB certification.
• Demonstrated background working directly within a design-build general contracting firm.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP) and profit-sharing options for long-term wealth growth.
• 401(k) retirement savings program with generous employer matching.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance options.
• Health Savings Account (HSA) and company-provided safety equipment.
• Paid time off for holidays, vacation, and sick leave plus flexible paid parental leave.
• Tech package including a smartphone or tablet for seamless communication.
• Paid training programs, professional development, and technical certifications.

About Us:

A.B. Systems, Inc. is a premier general construction firm specializing in commercial and industrial buildings and renovations. As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer an unmatched work-life balance and a collaborative culture where every team member shares directly in our business success.

A.B. Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender expression, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or any other status protected by law or regulations. It is our intention that all qualified applicants be given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.