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Architect

Darien, Illinois, United States

Are you looking for an opportunity to do challenging, creative work that makes a real impact? Would you like to be part of a company that respects individual contributions and thrives on collaboration? Do you love to win? Then consider joining Wight & Company. We’re a nationally recognized, award-winning architecture, engineering, and construction firm known for a dynamic company culture that fosters innovation and challenges the status quo, and we’re looking for a talented professional to join our team.

We seek a talented and driven Licensed Architect with 4+ years of professional experience to join our team. In this role, you will play a key part in the design and delivery of projects, leveraging your technical expertise and creative problem-solving skills. You will lead project components and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to translate concepts into detailed designs, ensuring that each project's aesthetic, functional, and technical aspects are realized. You will work closely with senior designers, architects, and other team members to deliver high-quality projects that meet client goals and the firm’s standards. Potential candidates should have strong analytical and problem-solving skills and a passion for high-quality design and collaborative processes. This position requires a strong understanding of all project phases, including programming/conceptual design, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction contract administration.

 

Responsibilities:

  • Project Leadership: Assist in or lead architectural projects (dependent upon project size) from concept through completion, ensuring design intent is carried out throughout.
  • Design Development: Contribute to the design process from concept through completion, developing detailed drawings, models, and presentations that communicate design intent
  • Technical Documentation: Prepare and refine design documentation, including schematic designs, design development sets, and construction documents, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
  • Technical Expertise: Engage and assist in producing construction documents, ensuring accuracy, compliance with building codes, and alignment with project goals.
  • Client Interaction: Assist in client presentations and meetings to convey design ideas clearly and professionally. Support Project Managers and Project Lead Designers in managing client expectations, presenting design solutions and addressing any concerns or modifications.
  • Coordination: Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams, including engineering, construction, and consultants, to ensure seamless integration of all project components and to integrate design ideas and technical solutions into cohesive project deliverables.
  • Research & Analysis: Research materials, building systems, and design trends, integrating innovative solutions and sustainable practices into projects.
  • Quality Assurance: Review and refine design work to ensure that it meets the firm’s quality, accuracy, and sustainability standards.
  • Sustainability: Advocate for and implement sustainable design practices, ensuring projects meet or exceed environmental standards.
  • Field Observations: Participate in site visits, monitor construction progress, and resolve any design or technical issues during the construction phase.
  • Mentorship: Provide leadership and guidance to junior architects and design staff, fostering professional growth and a collaborative working environment.
  • Project Management Support: Assist with project management tasks, including coordinating schedules, tracking progress, and ensuring project milestones are met.
  • Versatility: Adapting to various roles within a project, whether in leadership or support, while consistently performing at a high level. Proactively handles tasks beyond the primary scope and adjusts to changing priorities to ensure project success, team collaboration, and firm excellence.

Qualifications:

  • Education: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture from an accredited institution. 
  • Licensure:  Licensed Architect with current registration
  • Experience: 4+ years of professional experience in design, with a portfolio demonstrating a strong understanding of design principles, technical skills, project leadership, and creativity. 
  • Software Proficiency: Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite; experience with 3D modeling and rendering is a plus. 
  • Design Aptitude: Strong design sensibility with the ability to translate concepts into detailed and buildable designs. 
  • Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of building codes, construction methods, materials, and sustainable design practices. 
  • Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead project teams, manage multiple priorities, and mentor junior staff. 
  • Collaboration: Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with architects, engineers, and other consultants. 
  • Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present design ideas clearly and professionally. 
  • Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in all aspects of design and documentation. 
  • Problem-solving: Ability to think critically and creatively to resolve design challenges and deliver innovative solutions. 

 

Salary Range: $80,000 - $92,000. Individual pay will be based on several factors including experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant.

Wight & Company offers excellent benefits and a wonderful work environment. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, life insurance, flexible spending, paid holidays, paid time off, and a 401(k). Our flexible work schedule allows for a healthy work-life balance. For more information about our company, visit our website at www.wightco.com.

Wight & Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetics, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. Please view the following links for more information - EEO, EEO Supplement, and Pay Transparency.

Wight & Company values diversity in our workforce. We are committed to recruiting, hiring, and promoting people with disabilities and veterans. If you need an accommodation to assist with completing the electronic application, please call us at 630.969.7000 and ask to speak with a Human Resources representative.

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