Architecture - Designer II

Job Title: Designer IIDepartment: ArchitectureReports to: Managing DirectorFLSA Status: ExemptGENERAL SUMMARYThe Architectural Designer II is an intermediate-level design professional responsible for supporting the planning, design, and technical development of architectural projects under the direction of project architects, project managers, and senior design staff. This position applies developing knowledge of building systems, code requirements, and construction documentation while contributing to project delivery from concept through construction administration. The Designer II collaborates with internal team members and consultants to produce quality design solutions and coordinated project documents.SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIESThis position does not have supervisory responsibilities but may mentor junior staff.ESSENTIAL DUTIESTo 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 ControlAssist with 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 DevelopmentPrepare 2D and 3D design studies, renderings, diagrams, and visualizations using Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and Adobe Creative Suite.Research applicable codes, project ordinances, and design guidelines for assigned projects.Contribute to the design process from concept through the Construction Documentation phase.Participate in project meetings with clients, consultants, and end users.Produce project-related meeting minutes and assist with consultant correspondence and project coordination.Apply design principles specific to applicable project types.Ensure design solutions align with client program requirements, project goals, and firm standards.Support senior design staff in developing creative and functional architectural solutions.Project CoordinationOrganize project files on the network so team members can clearly locate project information as needed.Participate in client meetings, presentations, and design charrettes to communicate design concepts and gather feedback.Coordinate with engineering consultants (MEP, structural, civil) under the direction of project leadership to support integrated design solutions.Assist with consultant communication and coordination throughout project development.Collaborate with project architects, project managers, and design staff to meet project schedules and budget goals.Support coordination efforts with contractors and consultants during project development and documentation phases.Construction DocumentationIncorporate as-built/existing conditions, lessons learned, and client preferences into project documents.Apply applicable building codes, ADA guidelines, energy codes, and zoning regulations to project documentation.Prepare architectural details, sections, elevations, and plans with a developing understanding of building assemblies, materials, and systems.Develop architectural drawings and coordinate design details in conjunction with project specifications under the guidance of senior staff.Assist in coordinating consultant information and incorporating review comments into construction documents.Review and incorporate third-party review comments, including client, end-user, ADA, waterproofing, and consultant feedback.Assist in preparing construction documents for jurisdictional submissions and permit reviews.Support project teams in responding to jurisdictional review comments and permit requirements.Construction AdministrationAssist project architects and project managers with the in-office review of RFIs, shop drawings, material submittals, and product samples.Participate in site visits as assigned to observe construction progress and verify design implementation.Assist with documenting field observations and resolving technical issues under the direction of project leadership.Prepare punch lists and assist with project close-out activities.Professional DevelopmentSeek opportunities to expand technical knowledge, software proficiency, and understanding of building systems.Participate in training and professional development activities.Work toward increasing responsibility in project coordination, technical documentation, and project delivery.Remain current with industry trends, technologies, and best practices.Business Development and ResearchAssist with project pursuits, feasibility studies, and proposal graphics as requested.Support the preparation of design concepts, graphics, and presentation materials for proposals and interviews.Research emerging technologies, sustainable design strategies, and building materials to enhance project outcomes and firm innovation.REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIESSkilled in translating client needs and project goals into creative, functional, and contextually responsive design solutions.Proficiency in Revit (BIM), AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and Adobe Creative Suite.Working knowledge of building codes, ADA accessibility requirements, energy codes, and zoning ordinances.Strong written, verbal, and graphic communication skills for working with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams.Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary project teams.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Takes initiative, manages workload effectively, communicates needs proactively, and follows through on commitments.Developing understanding of building systems, construction methods, and architectural detailing.Strong design, graphic presentation, and problem-solving skills.Ability to prioritize work, meet deadlines, and provide high-quality service to clients.Maintains a professional presence during virtual meetings. When participating in meetings through Microsoft Teams or other approved video conferencing platforms, employees are expected to be on camera unless otherwise approved or circumstances prevent camera use.EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEBachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.2-4 years of progressively responsible architectural design experience.Experience with rollout, urban, healthcare, commercial, retail, mixed-use, higher education, or multi-family projects.Actively pursuing architectural license preferred.WHY YOU'LL WANT TO WORK AT GFJoin a team where you can contribute and grow your career without limits. At GF, you’ll help build community through meaningful work while shaping your professional growth and career path. Our team brings together diverse talents and backgrounds, creating an environment where you can explore fresh ideas, navigate new challenges, and adapt as your career and goals evolve. From our 4½-day workweek and comprehensive benefits to intentional mentorship and career development, GF provides an environment where growth, balance, and job satisfaction go hand in hand.CAREER PROGRESSIONWe are passionate about supporting your career progression and professional growth. GF maintains a career progression framework that illustrates typical advancement in both title and responsibility. During the annual performance review process, and at other appropriate times, we will discuss the skills, experience, and competencies that may be demonstrated to achieve the next level position.Career progression is not prescriptive. Advancement is based on a combination of demonstrated capability, technical and interpersonal skills, experience, initiative, attitude, performance, and overall contribution to the firm. We encourage open, direct, and ongoing conversations with your manager regarding your career goals and professional development.We also recognize that not every employee aspires to continued upward advancement. If you are content in your current role, we are committed to supporting your growth through expanded responsibilities, new challenges, and horizontal development opportunities that allow you to remain engaged, challenged, and professionally fulfilled while maintaining your current level.BENEFITSHealth and Wellness SupportWe prioritize the well-being of our team members through comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, along with a generous Firm contribution to health savings accounts. Other programs that further emphasizes our dedication to the holistic health of our employees include: voluntary short- and long-term disability; voluntary life insurance; accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity benefits; monthly wellness reimbursements; telehealth benefits; mental health counseling; employee assistance programs; Medicare transition services; and financial wellness benefits.Professional Development OpportunitiesDedication to continued learning is ingrained in our culture. Our tuition reimbursement program empowers employees to pursue continuous learning, enhancing their education and skill sets to excel in their careers. Mentorship opportunities and benefits such as paid membership to a professional organization and opportunities for selection into our Next Generation Leadership Training or Associates and Directors Program further supports the growth and development of our team.Ownership and ProsperityAs an ESOP company, GF takes pride in offering every team member a stake in our success. Through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan, our employees benefit from shared company prosperity, creating a culture of shared goals and achievements. You fund your 401(k) through paycheck deferrals, and GF matches your deferrals into the ESOP with shares of company stock.Work-Life IntegrationWe understand the importance of Work-Life Balance. Our commitment to flexible work schedules, paid time off, paid holidays, half-day Fridays, and paid parental leave allows our team members to achieve professional success while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO)We are an equal opportunity employer and are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, familial status, partnership status, protected veteran status, uniformed service member status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.PAY TRANSPARENCYWhere required by applicable law, the pay range for this position is provided in the job posting. Compensation is determined based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, skills, experience, education, internal equity, geographic location, and business needs. This position may also be eligible for discretionary bonuses and or benefits in accordance with applicable plans and policies.PAYROLLEmployees paid on a bi-weekly basis, consisting of 26 pay periods annually, and is issued in arrears. Direct deposit is available.AT-WILL EMPLOYMENTEmployment with GF is at will, which means that either the employee or GF may terminate the employment relationship at any time, with or without cause or notice, subject to applicable law. Nothing in this job description or posting creates a contract of employment or alters the at-will nature of employment.WORK ENVIRONMENTWork may be performed in a standard office setting, onsite at client locations, and or on active construction or project sites. Work environments may include exposure to weather conditions, uneven terrain, construction equipment, and other site-related conditions.PHYSICAL DEMANDSThis position requires sufficient physical ability, with or without reasonable accommodation, to perform essential job functions. These may include sitting or standing for extended periods; walking on uneven surfaces; stooping, bending, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and twisting; lifting, carrying, pushing, and or pulling light to moderate amounts of weight; operating office and field equipment requiring repetitive hand movement and fine motor coordination; communicating verbally and in writing; visual acuity within normal range with or without correction; and hearing within normal range with or without correction. This position may require physical mobility on and around active construction sites before and after installation of infrastructure and site improvements.REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONWe are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and to applicants throughout the hiring process. If you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or to perform essential job functions, please notify us. Reasonable accommodations may include modifications to the application process, work procedures, equipment, or work environment, in accordance with applicable law.BACKGROUND CHECKEmployment may be contingent upon successful completion of a background check, reference check, and or drug screening, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local laws, including fair chance and ban-the-box requirements.SAFETY & COMPLIANCEEmployees are required to comply with all Company and client on-site safety policies and procedures. Personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required when working on construction or project sites.WORK AUTHORIZATIONApplicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States. GF participates in E-Verify and will verify employment eligibility in accordance with federal law.HARASSMENT-FREE WORKPLACEWe are committed to maintaining a professional work environment free from discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and inappropriate conduct. All employees are expected to uphold these standards and will attend annual harassment prevention training.DISCLAIMERThis job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications and may be modified at any time to meet business needs.Thank you for your interest in applying for a position at GF. We appreciate you taking the time to submit your information. Our team will review your qualifications, and if your skills and experience align with the needs of the role, a member of our recruitment team will reach out to begin the next steps in the process. We look forward to reviewing your information. #J-18808-Ljbffr Greenbergfarrow