Hiring architects

Your guide to finding and hiring the right person for your organization

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Job description

How to write an architect job description

The job description is your first introduction to a job seeker. Make a good impression by positioning your company as the best place to work. You’ll attract high-quality candidates by crafting an architect job description that’s realistic, concise, and engaging. Keep it straightforward, but be sure to inject some personality. By avoiding industry jargon and grammatical errors, you’ll be better positioned to find the right person for the role.

Architect job description template

This sample job post will introduce your organization’s culture and values, while helping potential candidates understand how they’ll contribute from Day 1.

Sample architect job description

At [Company X], the integrated approach to design brings diverse voices and visions to every project. We’re searching for a highly experienced architect to join us in developing real, workable solutions based on innovation. The ideal candidate will have strong technical knowledge of conceptual design, building planning and detailing, and construction documentation and administration. We’re seeking someone who has the soul and passion of an artist and an array of strong technical skills. The architect must bring their knowledge of site, structure, science, and technology to every project in order to achieve client objectives for context, culture, and sustainability.

Objectives of this role

Design, document, and execute concurrent high-quality projects by collaborating with internal and external teams
Maintain close working relationships with a team that includes engineers, construction managers, surveyors, and government representatives
Cultivate expert knowledge of building products, construction details, regulations, quality standards, budgets, and timelines
Adhere to legal regulations and industry standards for design and construction, while also paying attention to industry trends and architectural advancements
Lead the creation of a conceptual framework for projects that includes company standards, goals, and brand ideals

Responsibilities

Create designs and detailed drawings by hand or with computer-aided design (CAD) applications
Manage project development from pre-design through completion, meeting with clients and consultants, providing insights and assistance, and reviewing and approving consultant requests for payments, amendments, extensions of schedule, and contract closeout
Lead the coordination of multiple disciplines to produce a comprehensive set of construction documents that meets the requirements of local building codes, ADA compliance, zoning regulations, and other applicable laws
Liaise with construction professionals regarding project feasibility and manage issues related to environmental impacts, local planning legislation, and budget negotiation and preparation
Attend regular meetings with clients, contractors, and specialists, and make site visits regularly to check on progress

Required skills and qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in architecture, design, or related field
Six or more years of experience in architectural design
Knowledge of and experience with local building codes, ADA compliance, zoning regulations, and other laws applicable to design and construction
Understanding of project budgets and schedules, with focus on soft costs, project milestones, and timely deliverables
Professional membership or registration (ex: RIBA, ARB)
Working knowledge of CAD applications and Vectorworks