AMDG Architects is looking for a versatile licensed architect (preferred) or architectural designer for a senior project designer role. Commercial experience as a technical architect (ideally in more than one commercial sector) is considered a prerequisite for the position given AMDG’s commitment to design and technical coherence. While not required, residential project experience would be considered a bonus. The candidate must have at least 12 years of architectural experience and will bring strengths in upfront programming, graphic communication and conceptual design informed by technical understanding and experience. 

This person will lead the design efforts of a project while assisting with technical documentation on projects. 

About AMDG:

AMDG Architects is a fast-paced, high-touch, architectural, interiors, and site design firm in Grand Rapids, Michigan that prioritizes excellent work and unmatched client service.

Our core values are:

• Built to Serve
• Dedicated to Excellence
• Driven to Improve
• Unified through Challenge

AMDG offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a wide range of innovative architecture projects, from urban design and public spaces to residential and commercial developments. We have a strong design sensibility, a passion for sustainable practices, and we manage projects from concept through construction.

Our designers are 100% in-office Monday through Thursday due to our commitment to collaborative design and mentoring (working remotely on Fridays as an option).

Responsibilities:

• Lead the design from the onset of a project through design development. This role requires the candidate to be capable of leading pre-design efforts and developing design concepts (site, exterior and interior).
• Engage in establishing design standards / protocols for the firm with the potential of being the design protocol lead.
• Oversee design through completion of construction / is a resource to the team as the project is developed / engages with the principal to set the design process and schedule:
  • pre-design / programming
  • schematic design development: including specification related design decisions
  • construction documents: strategic review of drawings and QC
  • construction administration: targeted review of design-sensitive shop drawings and submittals
• Owner communication participates in client facing meetings and communication throughout the project as related to design issues. The candidate must be motivated by client centric design and be highly gifted in understanding and articulating owner vision and needs.
• Design communication successfully orchestrates communication tools (graphics, computer modeling, packaging, marketing, etc.).

Qualifications:

• Master of architecture professional degree
• Registered architect (preferred)
• 10+ years of relevant professional work experience
• Exceptional design skills and thinking – can see the big picture.
• Strong graphic communication skills in multiple formats/software (sketch up and Revit are required).
• Team player with maturity to work successfully within a design studio context.
• Alignment with mission + values of the firm
• Prioritizes relationships and knows how to cultivate partnerships.
• Strong communicator with both internal teammates and external partners.
• Can balance humility, empathy, and expertise through wisdom and servant leadership.
• Committed to continuous improvement and life-long learner.
• A student of design and is aware of the latest innovations in planning and design.

What We Offer:

• Compensation: Competitive salary and generous bonuses issued twice per year.
• Insurance: We pay about 80% of medical/dental/vision insurance premiums for you and your family and 100% of short-term disability, long-term disability, and life insurance premiums.
• Simple IRA Match: Eligibility to contribute to a Simple IRA plan with an employer match of up to 3% of your annual compensation.
• Paid Leave: Flexible leave programs including paid time off, sick leave, and others.
• Paid Parking: we’re in a renovated open office space located in a historic building in downtown Grand Rapids and we pay for employee parking in one of the nearby lots.
• Culture: we are a team of people who listen to the client and prioritize collaboration when delivering excellent work and building lasting relationships.
• Professional Development: mentorship working alongside experienced architects, participation in the design community, exam and license fees, and continuing education opportunities.

Please include your cover letter connecting your unique experience to the position, plus your resume, portfolio, and compensation requirements. Any application missing any of the requested information may not be considered.