Architectural Designer

Architectural Designer

At Salas O’Brien we tell our clients that we’re engineered for impact. This passion for making a difference applies just as much to our team as it does to our projects. That’s why we’re committed to living our values every day: inspiring, achieving, and connecting as shared owners of our success with a focus on a sustainable future.

Building for the long-term means that all of our team members can expect to work on amazing projects with a people-first approach to problem solving. It also means that each member of our team has truly limitless potential to build a unique, meaningful, and high-impact career—and they’ll receive great total rewards along the way.

About Us

Founded in 1975, Salas O’Brien is an employee-owned engineering and professional services firm focused on achieving impact for our clients, our team, and the world. We know that tomorrow’s requirements are today’s opportunities, and we are here to design lasting solutions for pressing challenges.

We work across a variety of industries providing integrated engineering and consulting services. Our specialized experience includes design for data centers, healthcare, science and technology, high-rise buildings, clean energy, education, and other building types as well as structural and building sciences, infrastructure asset management, advanced robotics, and more.

Our technical expertise is paired with an exceptional team of business development, human resources, finance and accounting, information technology, and marketing professionals, all of whom play a key role in bringing our commitments to life every day.

Job Summary

Our Seattle office is seeking a talented and motivated Architectural Designer to join our growing team. This individual will contribute to the design, documentation, and delivery of industrial, commercial, and/or tenant improvement projects while working collaboratively with project managers, architects, consultants, and clients.

The ideal candidate combines strong design and technical skills with a proactive, solution-oriented mindset. They are a self-starter who can effectively manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, demonstrate attention to detail, and actively contribute to project success from concept through construction.

Responsibilities

Design & Documentation

• Support larger project teams through all phases of design, documentation, and construction administration.
• Lead smaller projects through all phases of design, documentation, and construction administration with oversight from signing Architect
• Prepare design drawings, specifications, construction documents, presentation materials, and project deliverables.
• Develop architectural plans, elevations, sections, details, and 3D models utilizing Revit and other design software.
• Assist in coordinating project requirements, design intent, building systems, and regulatory requirements.
• Participate in design discussions and contribute creative solutions that align with client objectives and project goals.

Technical Coordination

• Collaborate with consultants, contractors, vendors, and internal team members to ensure coordinated project documentation.
• Research building codes, accessibility requirements, and applicable regulations.
• Coordinate permit submissions and organize responses to jurisdictional review comments.
• Review drawings and specifications for quality, accuracy, and constructability.

Project Support

• Maintain project documentation and help ensure projects are delivered on schedule and within established quality standards.
• Participate in project meetings, site visits, and field observations.
• Assist with construction administration activities, including RFIs, submittal reviews, punch lists, and project closeout tasks.
• Support project managers and senior staff in resolving design and technical challenges.

Professional Development

• Pursue professional growth through project experience, continuing education, and the architectural licensure process.
• Stay current on industry trends, materials, technologies, building systems, and best practices.
• Contribute to a collaborative team culture focused on continuous improvement and exceptional client service.

Qualifications and Experience

Required

To succeed in this role, you should meet the following requirements:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited program, or equivalent education and experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in an architecture firm.
• Experience working on industrial, commercial, and/or tenant improvement projects.
• Proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD.
• Working knowledge of construction documents, detailing, and building systems. Field/ Site Experience is a plus.
• Understanding of applicable building codes and accessibility standards.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet project deadlines.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Preferred

• Progress toward architectural licensure and active participation in NCARB AXP.
• Experience in a collaborative BIM environment.
• Experience with construction administration and field observation activities.
• Familiarity with Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, Enscape, Lumion, or similar visualization tools.
• LEED, WELL, or sustainable design experience.
• Experience working directly with clients, consultants, and contractors.

Location

Remote, hybrid or in office, flexible

Travel

Travel up to 25% may be required to support project and business driven initiatives.

Compensation & Benefits

The expected base salary range for this role is $85,000-100,000 USD per year. Actual compensation will be determined based on a number of factors including skills, experience, qualifications, and location.

This role is also eligible for performance-based bonuses, equity participation, and a comprehensive U.S.-based benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays
• Wellness programs and employee assistance resources
• Professional development support

Equal Opportunity Employment Statement

Salas O’Brien provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, colour, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/provincial, or local laws. Salas O’Brien will accommodate the disability-related needs of applicants as required by law.

Third-Party Agency Notice

Salas O’Brien does not accept unsolicited resumes from external recruiters or agencies. We only work with approved partners engaged directly by our Talent Acquisition team for specific searches. Unsolicited submissions will not be eligible for placement fees.