Senior Architect / Senior Project Architect

Job Description

Position Overview (On-Site, Orland Park, IL)

We are seeking an experienced Senior Architect to lead and execute a wide range of projects including commercial, residential, multi-family housing, and veterinary care facilities . The ideal candidate is a well-rounded architectural professional who combines strong design capability with technical expertise, project leadership, and client-facing communication skills.

This role requires someone who can manage projects from initial concept through construction administration, coordinate consultants, mentor junior staff, and ensure projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

Key Responsibilities

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• Lead architectural design from programming and schematic design through construction documentation and construction administration
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• Manage multiple projects simultaneously of varying scale and complexity
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• Serve as primary point of contact for clients, owners, and stakeholders
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• Coordinate with consultants (MEP, structural, civil, landscape, and specialty vendors)
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• Develop detailed construction documents and technical specifications
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• Oversee code analysis, life safety plans, and permitting processes
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• Review shop drawings, RFIs, submittals, and change orders
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• Conduct site visits and field observations during construction
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• Ensure quality control and adherence to firm standards
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• Mentor and guide junior architects and designers
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• Participate in project budgeting, scheduling, and staffing
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• Support business development efforts, proposals, and client presentations
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Project Types

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• Commercial buildings and tenant improvements
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• Automobile Dealerships
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• Franchise Developments
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• Custom and production residential homes
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• Multi-family housing (apartments, townhomes, mixed-use)
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• Veterinary clinics, animal hospitals, and specialty care facilities
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Required Qualifications

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• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture (NAAB-accredited preferred)
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• 10–20 years of professional architectural experience
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• Licensed Architect (RA) or ability to obtain licensure
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• Strong knowledge of building codes (IBC, ADA, local jurisdictions)
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• Proven experience managing projects from concept through construction
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• Experience coordinating consultants and working directly with contractors
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• Excellent communication and organizational skills
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• Ability to lead teams and work independently
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• Must live in commuting distance to our Orland Park, IL office - this is not a remote or hybrid position.
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Technical Skills

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• Proficiency in Revit (required)
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• AutoCAD proficiency
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• Construction documentation and detailing expertise
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• Experience with permitting and jurisdictional approvals
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• Familiarity with specifications writing
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• Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Excel, Word)
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• Experience with SketchUp, Photoshop, Lumion, Bluebeam, or Adobe Creative Suite preferred
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Preferred Experience

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• Experience designing veterinary or medical facilities
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• Multi-family housing project leadership
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• Client management and business development exposure
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• Construction administration and field observation experience
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• Knowledge of sustainable design practices (LEED or similar a plus)
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Key Competencies

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• Leadership and mentorship
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• Problem solving and technical troubleshooting
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• Attention to detail
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• Client relationship management
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• Time and project management
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• Collaborative teamwork
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What Success Looks Like

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• Projects are delivered accurately and on time
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• Clients trust you and request repeat work
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• Junior staff grow under your mentorship
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• Construction issues are resolved efficiently
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• The firm’s design and technical standards are upheld
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Compensation & Benefits

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• Competitive salary based on experience
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• Performance bonuses (as applicable)
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• Health, dental, and vision insurance available
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• Paid time off and holidays
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• Professional development and licensing support
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• 401(k) or retirement plan options
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