Architectural Designer

Topos Architects; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health benefits

Professional development support

Flexible/hybrid hours

Job summary

Topos Architects is seeking an architectural professional to advance concepts from schematic design through construction documents for residential projects in the Bay Area. The role emphasizes producing CAD drawings, schedules, and presentation materials, including 3D views and diagrams.

You will create high-quality visualizations, coordinate with consultants, prepare permit submittals, and participate in site visits and construction administration while prioritizing sustainability and

Qualifications

• A professional degree in architecture with 3–5 years of experience.
• Residential Bay Area experience preferred.
• California license or NCARB/ARE progression preferred.
• Strong graphic presentation and communication skills.
• Experience with construction documents.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of project concepts into schematic design, design development, and construction documents for residential projects.
• Produce CAD drawings, details, schedules, and presentation materials (plans, elevations, sections, 3D views).
• Create high-quality visualizations, diagrams, and client presentation boards; guide physical model work.
• Prepare permit submittals, respond to jurisdictional review comments.
• Participate in client meetings, site visits, contractor coordination, and construction administration (RFIs, submittals, site observation).
• Conduct code research, feasibility studies, and value-engineering with emphasis on site, sustainability, and constructability.

Skills

Graphic presentation

Verbal & written communication

Project coordination

Education

Professional degree in Architecture

Tools

ArchiCAD

CAD software

Job description

The ideal candidate will develop concepts through schematic and construction documentation, produce clear drawings and visuals, coordinate consultants, support permitting and construction administration, and help maintain studio standards. This role reports to the Principal/Project Architect.

Key responsibilities:

• Lead development of project concepts into schematic design, design development, and construction documents for residential projects.
• Produce CAD drawings, details, schedules, and presentation materials (plans, elevations, sections, 3D views).
• Create high-quality visualizations, diagrams, and client presentation boards; guide physical model work.
• Prepare permit submittals, respond to jurisdictional review comments.
• Participate in client meetings, site visits, contractor coordination, and construction administration (RFIs, submittals, site observation).
• Conduct code research, feasibility studies, and value-engineering with emphasis on site, sustainability, and constructability.

Qualifications:

• A professional degree with 3-5 years professional experience, preferably with residential work in the Bay Area preferred.
• Proficiency in ArchiCAD (preferred) or similar CAD program; strong construction documentation skills.
• Good understanding of California building codes, detailing, materials, and construction methods.
• Strong graphic presentation skills and clear verbal/written communication.
• Organized, detail-oriented, able to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• California architectural license or NCARB/ARE progression (preferred).
• Construction administration experience on active job sites.
• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Paid time off, health benefits, professional development support, flexible/hybrid hours.