Architecture Designer lll

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Designer III
Department: Architecture
Reports to: Managing Director
FLSA Status: Exempt

GENERAL SUMMARY
The Architectural Designer III is a mid- to senior-level design professional responsible for contributing to the planning, design, and technical development of complex architectural projects. This position requires advanced knowledge of building systems, code compliance, and design documentation. The role entails independent problem-solving, design work, coordination with consultants, mentoring of junior staff, and direct involvement in project delivery from concept through construction administration.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
This position does not have supervisory responsibilities but may mentor junior staff.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. General duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Code Analysis and Quality Control

• Perform in-depth building code reviews (IBC, NFPA, local zoning, ADA accessibility standards) for assigned projects.
• Research local planning ordinances and coordinate with authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) regarding project and design compliance requirements.
• Assist in internal quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC) reviews to minimize errors and ensure high-quality deliverables.

Architectural Design Development

• Prepare 2D and 3D design studies, renderings, diagrams, and visualizations using Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Enscape, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Research applicable codes, project ordinances, and guidelines for each identified project.
• Lead and contribute to the design process from concept through design the Construction Documentation phase.
• Lead and contribute to project meetings with clients, consultants and end users.
• Produce project-related meeting minutes, coordinate consultant correspondence and schedules throughout the development phases.
• Apply design principles specific to applicable project types.
• Ensure that design intent aligns with client program requirements, building performance goals, and firm standards.

Project Coordination

• Organize project files on the network so others can clearly locate files as needed.
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, and design charrettes to communicate design solutions and address client feedback.
• Serve as primary liaison with engineering consultants (MEP, structural, civil) to ensure coordinated design solutions.
• Proactively communicate with consultants to anticipate needs and allow adequate time for responses and revisions.
• Collaborate with internal team members, including project architects, project managers, and designers, to meet project schedules and budget goals.
• Coordinate with contractors during pre-construction phases to ensure the constructability of the project design.

Construction Documentation

• Incorporate as-built/existing conditions, lessons learned, and client preferences into the project design documents.
• Review and incorporate applicable building codes, ADA guidelines, energy codes, and zoning regulations.
• Prepare details, sections, and elevations with advanced knowledge of building assemblies, materials, and systems.
• Develop architectural drawings and coordinate design details in conjunction with project specifications. Produce fully coordinated drawing sets that integrate architectural, structural, MEP, and civil consultant information.
• Review and incorporate third party review comments (to include: client, end-user, ADA, waterproofing, and client-appointed consultants) into the construction documents.
• Review all drawings to be sure all comments have been captured. Coordinate, schedule, and submit construction documents to local and regional jurisdictions.
• Provide prompt correspondence with jurisdictions. Collect and distribute comments to applicable consultants. Coordinate prompt resubmittal dates with the consultants.

Construction Administration

• Assist project architect and project manager with in-office review of RFIs, shop drawings, material submittals, and product samples.
• Conduct periodic site visits to review construction progress and verify compliance with design intent.
• Document field reports and work with contractors to resolve technical issues.
• Prepare punch lists and assist in project close-out and completion.

Mentorship and Team Leadership

• Provide guidance and oversight to interns, Designer I, and Designer II positions.
• Review junior staff's work for accuracy, clarity, and compliance with office and firm standards
• Share technical knowledge of construction methods, building systems, and design software.

Business Development and Research

• Support the pursuit of new projects by participating in competitions and feasibility studies.
• Contribute to project proposals by preparing design concepts, graphics, and narratives.
• Research emerging technologies, sustainable design strategies, and building materials to enhance project outcomes and firm innovation.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Skilled in translating client needs and project goals into innovative, functional, and contextually responsive designs.
• Advanced command of Revit (BIM), AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Enscape, Lumion, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of IBC, NFPA, ADA accessibility, energy codes, and zoning ordinances.
• Exceptional written, verbal, and graphic communication skills for working with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams.
• Ability to mentor junior staff, lead design discussions, and maintain accountability for deadlines and deliverables.
• Takes initiative, balances workload effectively, communicates needs proactively, and upholds commitments.
• Strong and versatile building design and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to prioritize to meet deadlines and provide high-quality service to clients.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture from an accredited institution.
• 3-5 years of progressively responsible architectural design experience.
• Experience with rollout, urban, healthcare, commercial, retail, mixed-use, higher education, or multi-family projects.
• Progress towards architectural license preferred.