Project Architect

Role : Project Architect

Location: Des Plaines, Illinois (Only Locals/Onsite)

Exp Req : 12+ Yrs Max

Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site

Salary : $130K/Annum

We are seeking an experienced Project Architect with a strong background in retail architecture and project management to lead projects from concept through construction. The ideal candidate will have experience managing retail development Projects, coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors, and ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.

Key Requirements

• 12+ years of architectural experience with a focus on retail projects.
• Proven experience as a Project Architect or Architectural Project Manager.
• Strong expertise in project planning, scheduling, budgeting, and team leadership.
• Hands-on experience with Revit , AutoCAD, BIM workflows, and construction documentation.
• Solid knowledge of IBC, ADA, zoning regulations, and building codes .
• Excellent client-facing, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Licensed Architect (RA) and NCARB certification are preferred (Not Mandate)

What the client is really looking for

1. Architectural Project Leadership

They need someone who can take ownership of a project from initial design through construction completion .

Key terms:

• Concept Design
• Design Development
• Construction Documents
• Construction Administration

2. Retail Architecture Experience (Very Important)

The firm specializes in retail architecture, so experience with:

• Retail stores
• Shopping centers
• Mixed-use retail developments
• Franchise rollouts
• National retail brands

3. Project Management Skills

The candidate should be capable of:

• Managing project schedules
• Tracking budgets
• Coordinating multiple stakeholders
• Handling project deliverables
• Ensuring projects are completed on time

4. Client-Facing Responsibilities

They want someone comfortable interacting with:

• Clients
• Consultants
• Contractors
• Engineering teams

Strong communication and presentation skills are important.

5. Building Code & Regulatory Knowledge

The candidate should have experience with:

• Building permits
• Zoning requirements
• ADA compliance
• IBC (International Building Code)
• Local municipal regulations

6. Team Leadership / Mentoring

The person will likely supervise:

• Junior Architects
• Architectural Designers
• Drafting teams

So prior experience leading teams is valuable.

7. Technical Software Skills

They mention "industry-standard architectural software," which typically means:

• Autodesk Revit (most important)
• AutoCAD
• SketchUp
• Bluebeam
• Adobe Creative Suite
• BIM workflows

Ideal Candidate Profile

Must Have

• 10–15+ years in Architecture
• Project Architect or Project Manager experience
• Retail project experience
• Client-facing experience
• Revit proficiency
• Construction document experience
• Building code knowledge

Nice to Have

• Licensed Architect (RA)
• NCARB certification
• Experience managing multiple projects simultaneously

Thanks & Regards,

Stephen

Lead Talent Acquisition Specialist

Email : ***email_hidden***