Architecture – Project Architect

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people’s lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.

Application must include both resume and portfolio (or portfolio link).

In partnership with the Project Manager and Project Designer, accountable for project financial performance and team communication. Responsible for the issuance and content of deliverables, technical content of HOK documents and coordination of disciplines including consultants and for the supervision of all staff producing documents. Primary responsibility for the implementation of Construction Phase Services in collaboration with the PM. Responsible for securing QA reviews and the implementation of comments. Must be a licensed architect and is responsible for signing/sealing drawings. Needs to participate in and contribute to a culture of technical excellence.

Responsibilities

Leadership

• Responsible for ensuring the overall design intent of the project established by the Project Designer is incorporated into the detailed documentation.
• Monitors the design process from conceptual phase through construction administration, ensuring the design idea is consistent and properly executed.
• Responsible for technical resolution and coordination for a defined portion of a project.
• Works with Specification Writer to develop specifications and is responsible for coordination of drawings and specifications.
• Checks completed reports, plans, estimates and calculations for accuracy.
• Sets the overall strategy for producing the documents and identifies the sheets planned for each stage of the work. This includes defining how data will be organized into files and which elements will be incorporated in a Building Information Model (BIM).
• Sets up project team software parameters and manages standards.
• Fosters and maintains a collaborative professional working relationship with the Project Leadership Team.
• Responsible for communication with other disciplines, vendors, and contractors to ensure incorporation of all information into project requirements and provides support as necessary.
• Ensures that construction detail documentation conforms to quality assurance, quality control and best practice standards.
• Supervises preparation of technical drawings by other less senior level architects or technicians.
• Performs as team leader on certain projects.
• Mentors and directs the work of less experienced staff, participates in professional development reviews and “Lessons Learned” sessions.
• Takes personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
• Fosters a commitment to external and internal client service.

Client Interface

• Works on developing a positive relationship of trust with client Leadership.
• Regularly communicates with client representative to verify design requirements and specifications, progress reviews and delivery of final presentation.

Teamwork & Coordination

• Receives project direction from the Principal in Charge and Technical direction from the RBU Technical Principal.
• Coordinates use and tracks shared electronic documentation and files with project team, clients and consultants.
• Assists in planning and conducting work making minor adaptations and modifications to complete working drawing set(s).
• Meets with municipal building department and other governing agency officials to coordinate approvals or variances.
• Writes reports and memos to consultants and vendors to issue changes and track resolutions.
• Provides technical support and project communications to team as required.
• Attends on-site visits, field reviews and project meetings. Prepares and coordinates the review of contractor’s schedules, submission of shop drawings and samples.
• Assists the Specification Writer in product research, consulting with manufacturers, evaluating and selecting project related materials.
• Involved with specification set-up and drawing coordination, research and appropriate use of HOK Standards.
• Provides support to all team members for specific market, discipline, or other areas of expertise.
• Participates in team meetings to help resolve project issues, coordination with other disciplines, schedule adherence, and technical issues.
• Participates in review of project costs and budgets, adherence to schedule.
• Prepares meeting minutes of consultant coordination meetings.
• May prepare 2D and 3D presentation/design drawings and builds models for client/project team review.
• Incorporates Integrated Sustainable Design solutions into projects.

Business Development

• May participate in business development meetings with team leaders to target specified project, client or market opportunities.

education & experience

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture or equivalent in education or experience required. Master’s degree preferred.
• 8+ years of professional architectural design experience, preferably on complex or large-scale projects.
• Licensed Architect with current registration in your region required.
• NCARB registration preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.

Skills & Competencies

• Advanced knowledge of architectural design, building systems, construction methods, materials, and manufacturer suitability.
• Commitment to technical leadership and a collaborative approach to working with teams.
• Strong understanding of sustainability, integrated design, and LEED guidelines.
• Expertise in QA/QC processes and building code research and application.
• Advanced knowledge of construction administration, including contract administration, field coordination, and issue resolution.
• Proficiency in Revit required.
• Experience with 3D modeling tools (SketchUp, Rhino, Grasshopper) and Affinity suite preferred.

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software & Skills for details.

Compensation is based on experience, qualifications, education and location. The reasonably estimated annual salary range for this position in Chicago is $85,000-$96,000.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you’ll have a hybrid work environment, 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.

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