Architectural Designer

Associated Housewrights; Madison (WI); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Housewrights in Madison, WI seeks an Architectural Designer who can take ownership of residential projects from concept through construction. You’ll work on an integrated design-build team, collaborating directly with clients, builders, and trade partners to deliver high-quality homes.

This role emphasizes independent leadership with strong support from an established team, demanding clear design communication through drawings, 3D models, and visuals, while maintaining schedules and client

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture; licensure preferred.
• 3–5 years of residential design experience with increasing independence.
• Portfolio showing resolved residential plans and 3D models.
• Proficient in CAD; Vectorworks preferred with 3D modeling.
• Strong client coordination and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead residential design projects from concept through construction.
• Own projects, schedules, and client relationships.
• Collaborate with clients, builders, and trade partners.
• Work within an integrated design-build team.
• Communicate design intent clearly through drawings and models.

Skills

Residential design

3D modeling

Client communication

Project coordination

Time management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Licensure or active path preferred

Tools

Vectorworks

Job description

At Housewrights, we design and build high-performing, thoughtfully crafted homes that balance technical precision, function, and timeless aesthetics. Our work is rooted in collaboration, strong process, and delivering exceptional value to our clients.

We’re looking for anArchitectural Designerwho’s ready to take ownership, someone who can step into projects quickly and grow into a highly independent, client-facingrole.

This is not a traditional architecture position. You’ll be part of an integrated design-build team, working directly with clients, builders, and trade partners from concept through construction.

Why ThisRoleIs Different

• Real Ownership– Within months, you’ll be leading your own projects, schedule, and client relationships
• Client Leadership– You are the primary point of contact, guiding decisions and building trust
• Design-Build Integration– Work side-by-side with construction teams in a highly collaborative environment
• High Autonomy, Strong Support– Designed for someone who wants independence in their work, with the stability of an established team behind them
• Proven Process– You bring the design expertise; we provide the system and structure to elevate it

What You Bring

• Experience leading residential design projects (remodels and/or new homes) from concept through construction
• Strong three-dimensional and spatial reasoning, with the ability to translate construction assemblies into accurate, buildable drawings.
• Ability to manage multiple projects, timelines, and client expectations independently
• Strong, professional communication skills with the ability to lead client relationships and build trust
• Highly organized, self-directed, and accountable with strong time management skills
• Experience coordinating with consultants, builders, and other design professionals
• Strong presentation skills, able to clearly communicate design intent through drawings, 3D models, sketches, and written content
• Collaborative mindset with respect for team structure, timelines, and process
• Interest growing within a design-build environment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s (or higher) in Architecture; licensure or active path strongly preferred
• 3-5 years of residential design experience with increasing independence
• Portfolio and work samples showing technically resolved residential plans, elevations, sections, details, and 3D models, not solely presentation renderings.
• Demonstrated ability to manage the full architectural design process, including client and consultant coordination
• Proficiency in CAD software (Vectorworks preferred) with proficient use of 3D modeling
• Ability to clearly communicate design through drawings, models, and visuals
• Working knowledge of residential construction, UDC, and real-world build constraints
• General technical proficiency (email, spreadsheets, project tools); Mac OS a plus

Work will occur under guidance of WI registered architect. Goal of achieving licensure, if not already possessed, encouraged.

We offer a competitive salary and excellent benefits. If you enjoy a fast-paced work environment that strives for continuous quality improvement,