Design Architect

Full-time - Mid Level

Washington, DC

About the position

The Designer has responsibility for the quality of design for each project within the established scope of work, program, and budget objectives. Together with the Technical Designer, Project Manager, and/or Project Architect, the Designer is the day-to-day co-leader of the project, with significant responsibilities in the Concept Design through Design Development phases. They lead the production of design deliverables to convey a clear narrative and conceptual framework to internal and external parties.

Responsibilities

• Contributes to the design direction and innovation(s) and furthers the development of architectural projects through all phases that are consistent with the scope of work and goals of the firm.
• Integrates criteria and input from all disciplines into design solutions.
• Communicates and maintains standards of quality for design and work products for the full internal and external team.
• Possesses a working understanding of the local parameters and criteria for the project, including relevant local codes.
• Oversees and leads the design, programmatic, contextual, and cultural research and analysis required for the project.
• Proposes and assesses materials and finishes for the project.
• Leads design documentation including but not limited to drawings, sketches, physical models, renderings, and animations for regular internal and external meetings and milestone deliverables.
• Drafts a comprehensive design narrative for the project that will inform the client and other disciplines about the design intent.
• Supports the production of the technical specifications for the project.
• Communicates the design goals to the project team on a regular basis.
• Fosters positive relationships with clients and the design community.
• Remains committed to working within the established project budgets, schedules and work plans.
• Supports the team’s construction phase services scope including making periodic site visits to monitor construction progress.
• Attends and presents in owner/architect design meetings.
• Reviews and approves meeting minutes.
• Attends and facilitates weekly internal project team meetings.
• Works with IT, Marketing, and Records Management to archive all final and preferred drawings, renderings, and photos for future use.
• Actively participates in local and firm-wide Design Review Meetings.

Requirements

• Completion of a professional degree in Architecture or a related field.
• Licensed in Architecture; LEED or other green building accreditation preferred.
• Minimum 8 years of experience or equivalent knowledge, skills and abilities.
• General understanding of sustainable strategies and principles including familiarity with LEED or other green building rating systems.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrates proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, parametric and rendering software, Adobe Suite, and Google Workspace.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life & accident insurance
• 401K matching
• Pre-tax spending accounts
• Employee discount programs
• Hybrid/Flexible schedules
• Paid family leave
• Paid vacation
• Backup child and elder care
• Employee assistance program
• Reimbursement for professional licenses, associated renewals, and exam fees
• Specialized in-house career development