Architectural Designer

AIA Colorado; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Mentorship & career growth

Bonuses and equity potential

Collaborative work environment

Job summary

Ponting Fitzgerald seeks a Junior to Mid-Level Architect for a collaborative, design-forward studio in Colorado. You will contribute to small-scale residential and urban design projects, mentored by lead architect Matt Fitzgerald, and help shape our built environment.

Initially focused on drafting, standards, and code research, the role grows into full design work across phases, with strong emphasis on quality, craft, and architectural integrity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture; Master’s degree is a plus.
• Active pursuit of architectural licensure in Colorado.
• Proficiency in ArchiCAD for 3D modeling and BIM workflows.
• Strong knowledge of residential building codes and zoning.

Responsibilities

• Produce precise architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents.
• Develop and maintain office drafting standards and templates.
• Research local zoning laws and building codes; translate into project guidelines.
• Collaborate with engineers, construction managers, and real estate professionals.

Skills

Strong communication

Leadership

Organizational skills

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Master’s degree beneficial

Tools

ArchiCAD

BIM workflows

3D modeling

Graphic presentation tools

Job description

Overview: Join an innovative, entrepreneurial-driven collective of professionals reshaping the approach to real estate development. Ponting Fitzgerald is part of a rapidly growing, vertically integrated group of companies that brings together architects, real estate developers, engineers, construction managers, and attorneys under one roof.

What sets us apart is our unique, highly collaborative, and design-focused approach. By integrating all primary real estate functions within the same group, we ensure that architectural integrity and design excellence aren't lost in translation, but rather drive every stage of a project. We thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and are looking for a highly motivated, design-conscious candidate to join our architecture team.

The Role: We are a small, tight-knit collaborative team seeking a driven Junior to Mid-Level Architect with a strong passion for small-scale residential projects and urban design. In this position, you will work closely with lead architect Matt Fitzgerald, gaining direct mentorship and hands-on involvement in shaping our built environment. The ideal candidate has a keen eye for transforming underutilized parcels into vibrant community additions and a deep appreciation for thoughtful, highly crafted design.

Initially, this role will focus heavily on foundational architectural production: executing precise drafting, establishing and building out our internal office standards, and diving deep into local building and zoning codes. As you integrate into our workflow, the position will expand into comprehensive design work.

Key Responsibilities

Foundational & Production Duties (Initial Focus)

• Produce highly accurate architectural drawings, 3D models, and construction documents.
• Take ownership of developing, organizing, and maintaining robust office design standards and drafting templates.
• Conduct thorough research on local zoning laws, building codes, and sustainability practices, translating them into actionable project guidelines.
• Manage daily documentation tasks efficiently to meet tight project deadlines.

Design & Collaborative Duties (Ongoing & Expanding)

• Perform primary design duties for projects ranging from single-family homes to mid-size mixed-use developments, ensuring a rigorous commitment to design excellence.
• Collaborate closely with in-house construction managers, engineers, and real estate professionals to develop innovative, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solutions that align with project budgets.
• Support all phases of architectural design, from conceptual schematic design through to construction documentation and administration.
• Tackle various ad-hoc assignments and adapt to the dynamic needs of an entrepreneurial environment.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (Master’s degree is beneficial).
• Licensure: Actively pursuing an architectural license (Registered Architect) in Colorado.
• Technical Skills: Proficiency in architectural design software, with a strong emphasis on ArchiCAD for 3D modeling and BIM workflows, alongside graphic presentation tools.
• Knowledge Base: Foundational understanding of residential building codes, zoning regulations, and design practices.
• Professional Traits: Highly motivated self-starter with excellent communication, leadership, and organizational abilities. Proven capacity to juggle multiple priorities and budget constraints gracefully.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Clear opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and career advancement within a vertically integrated ecosystem.
• Merit-based bonuses and the unique potential to participate financially in the success of the projects you help create.
• A close-knit, relaxed, yet highly driven work environment where your design input is valued.
• The chance to contribute meaningfully to projects that elevate community livability and architectural quality.