Architectural Designer
Actalent · Des Plaines, IL · 2 days ago
HybridArt & Creative$33.65–$43.26/hrContract
About the role
This role offers the opportunity to work as an Architectural Designer within an integrated design-build firm that specializes in private healthcare practices. You will contribute across the full project lifecycle, from early visioning and conceptual design through detailed architectural documentation and construction support. The position combines hands-on design, technical detailing, and active collaboration with interior design, construction, and project technical teams. You will help shape healthcare environments, gain broad exposure to all project phases, and work closely with leadership in a boutique setting that values ownership, growth, and cross-functional collaboration.
Responsibilities
- Carry out on-site investigations of existing buildings, including reviewing existing systems and elements, and prepare accurate architectural record plans.
- Lead the development of construction documents and detailed project drawings that clearly communicate design intent and technical requirements.
- Mentor and lead project architects and architectural designer team members, providing guidance on both design and technical topics.
- Collaborate across groups, contributing to both technical construction issues and design discussions to ensure cohesive project delivery.
- Attend client meetings, review early space plans, and provide constructive design suggestions and feedback to the design team.
- Review technical construction drawings and coordinate closely with engineering consultants to align architectural and engineering solutions.
- Create hand sketches and technical details to support discussions with interior design and technical teams and clarify design intent.
- Develop procedures for gathering, coordinating, and synthesizing project requirements from stakeholders to inform design and documentation.
- Research products and building systems that support and enhance the design intent, particularly within healthcare environments.
- Develop plans, elevations, and architectural details that clearly illustrate design concepts and the use of materials.
- Produce construction documents and specifications that ensure alignment with the approved design intent and project requirements.
- During the construction phase, lead document revisions such as addenda, bulletins, and clarification sketches to address field conditions and questions.
- Lead the review of subcontractor submissions to verify compliance with the design intent and project documentation.
- Lead the review of production shop drawings for furniture, millwork, and equipment as needed to ensure consistency with the design.
- Attend job site meetings during construction on an as-needed basis to review construction elements and furnishing placement for compliance with approved documents.
- Participate in punch list processes as needed, helping to identify, document, and follow up on items requiring correction or completion.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a closely related field.
- 4–7 years of experience working in an architecture firm or related office environment.
- Minimum 2 years of experience on healthcare projects is a strong plus.
- Working knowledge of Autodesk Revit and BIM applications, or a strong desire and aptitude to learn these tools.
- Proficiency with MS Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
- Experience preparing and coordinating construction documents and specifications.
- Ability to review and coordinate technical construction drawings with engineering consultants.
- Client-facing experience with the confidence to participate in and contribute to client meetings.
- Ability to influence and persuade stakeholders to achieve desired project outcomes.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills applied to design and technical challenges.
- Effective negotiation skills in the context of project coordination and decision-making.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills for clear interaction with clients, consultants, and internal teams.
- Strong organizational, planning, and prioritization skills to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
- Self-motivated with high energy and a strong drive to excel in a performance-based environment.
- Able to work effectively in a fast-paced, collaborative team environment and adapt quickly to change.
Qualifications
- Working knowledge of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator is a plus.
- Experience or interest in healthcare-focused design and construction.
- Experience mentoring or guiding junior architectural staff.
- Ability to develop and refine procedures for gathering and synthesizing project requirements.
- Comfort working directly with leadership and cross-functional teams in a boutique firm environment.
- Strong work ethic with the self-discipline to follow structured processes, including sales or performance-based frameworks.
- Proven success in a performance-based culture where outcomes and results are measured.
- Desire to grow within an integrated design-build practice and gain exposure to all phases of project delivery.