Architectural Designer

Job Description:

General Summary:

The Architectural Designer's primary role will be to develop project concepts into visually appealing and functional architectural designs. Working closely with the project team, the Architectural Designer contributes to the development of innovative and sustainable design solutions. This position requires a blend of creativity, technical proficiency, and a keen understanding of architectural design principles.  The Architectural Designer shall also utilize the use of new design technologies including but not limited to: generative design, AI design, Augmented/Virtual Reality, and other emerging design tools.

Essential Job Functions:

• Collaborate with project stakeholders to understand design requirements and objectives.
• Participate and/or lead project programming to set project goals and scope of work.
• Generate creative and innovative design concepts that align with project goals.
• Produce sketches, mood boards, and other visual representations to communicate design ideas.
• Utilize advanced 3D modeling software and/or technologies to create detailed and realistic representations of architectural designs.
• Develop renderings and visualizations to effectively communicate design intent to clients and project stakeholders.
• Participate in client presentations and meetings to articulate design concepts and respond to feedback.
• Iterate design concepts based on feedback and project requirements.
• Research and prepare submissions for Site Plan Approvals, including coordination with team members as lead or team member to others lead.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to integrate various design elements seamlessly into projects.
• Collaborate with the project team to produce construction documents and assist in the permitting process as needed.
• Assist in the preparation of detailed architectural drawings during the Design Development and Construction Document phases of projects, which may vary by project.
• Assist in providing information on products, materials, and/or details to aid in the preparation of project specifications.
• Ensure that designs comply with relevant building codes, regulations, and industry standards.
• Stay informed about the latest trends, materials, and construction techniques in the field of design and architecture.
• Research and recommend appropriate materials and finishes for projects.
• Work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to source materials and product samples during the design phase for client approval.
• Foster effective communication within the project team and with clients.
• Assist project managers with budgeting design time, tracking delivery dates, and assisting in budget validations as required.
• Contribute to the resolution of design-related issues during pre-construction/construction.
• Assist in the construction administration of projects concerning design-related items.
• Perform other design-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Education/Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture required
• Licensed as an Architect, not required but preferred
• LEED Certification, not required but preferred
• WELL Certification, not required but preferred

Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in an Architectural Designer role
• Experience in master planning, site planning, program development, conceptual design and 3D design visualization required

Skills/Competencies:

• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUP, Enscape, Rhino, Dynamo, Photoshop, InDesign, PowerPoint, Bluebeam Review and MS Office products
• Knowledge of AI Design/Visualization programs
• Familiar with BIM360/Autodesk ACC
• Knowledge of current building codes and zoning codes and how to apply them to projects
• Knowledge of industry vendors (materials, finishes, furnishings and equipment)
• Strong visual, verbal and written communication skills
• Strong attention to design details

Since 1982, Ghafari Associates has taken a personal approach to highly technical projects in complex markets including: aviation, manufacturing, healthcare, retail, hospitality, K-12 and higher education. As a global team of engineers, architects, process designers, and consultants we blend insight with technological innovation helping clients elevate their efficiency, sustainability, and impact.

Continuously rated a Top Workplace to Work, Crain’s Cool Place to Work, and a Best and Brightest company to work for in the US, Ghafari has made a name for itself through our culture, employee benefits, and portfolio of projects.

Over a quarter of Ghafari employees have diverse identities that are championed by our growing approach to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Ghafari supports hybrid and in-office work environments.

Through career mapping, Ghafari employees are encouraged to seek licensure, coached for knowledge growth, and provided opportunities for management and mentorship roles if interested. Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world, having an over 90% success rate of hiring our interns after graduation.

Join our team and work on forward-thinking projects all around the world. Ghafari’s global reach creates an environment where individuals can build professional relationships while building sustainable and cutting-edge facilities. Are you ready to take that leap? Apply Now!

Ghafari Associates, LLC is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer and is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability in order to use our online system to apply for a position at Ghafari Associates, LLC, you may apply for positions in the following ways:

Connect to our job portal (https://ghafari.jobs)
By fax at 313.436.8624; Attn: Human Resources
By mail at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126; Attn: Human Resources
In person at 17101 Michigan Avenue, Dearborn, MI 48126.
By email at hr@ghafari.com
If there are any questions or additional accommodations that are required, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.

It is Ghafari Associates, LLC’s policy not to discriminate in its employment and personnel practices because of a person’s race, color, creed, religion, sex, national origin, age, weight, height, marital, pregnancy or parental status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, status as a qualified individual with a disability or a protected veteran, or any other classification protected by federal, state or local law or ordinance.