Associate Design Principal

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world? We believe architecture is more than designing buildings—it’s about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities.

As part of our Architecture practice at HDR, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment.

Responsibilities

• Take responsibility for creative concepts/solutions for complex architectural projects
• Meet directly with the owner/client, analyze project goals, conceive and develop architectural concepts/solutions for those goals
• Initiate and create designs and other documentation with responsibility for preparation of presentation drawings, models, and narratives
• Provide senior leadership for all disciplines related to overall building design
• Represent our firm by participating as a key member of our business development team in marketing to prospective owners/clients
• Work with various disciplines throughout all phases to ensure all concepts/solutions accommodate project needs and the owner's program
• Perform other duties as needed

Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Architecture
• A minimum of 10 years design leadership experience
• Experience in the areas of healthcare, educational, civic, science, and research facilities
• Experience and/or interest in sustainable design/LEED desired
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp, and 3-D Studio Max
• Rhino and Grasshopper experience

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or closely related field
• A minimum of 10 years experience
• Registered Architect
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule)
• Excellent written and communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process
• Demonstrated graphic presentation skills
• Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package promoting employee ownership, health, performance, and success
• Medical, dental, vision, short and long-term disability, life insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Paid time away, parental leave, paid holidays
• Retirement savings plan with employer match
• Employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement
• Eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) fostering inclusion and support

Pay

$112,343.00 - $160,490.00 (depends on skills, experience, education, and geographical location)

Schedule

Full-time

Primary location: United States-Illinois-Chicago