Architectural Lead Designer

Schroeder Design/Build, Inc; Fairfax (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional growth opportunities

Team-oriented culture

Client-centered service approach

Job summary

Schroeder Design/Build, Inc in Fairfax, Virginia is seeking an Architectural Lead Designer to oversee the design process from concept development to final execution. You will manage and inspire design teams, working closely with clients and stakeholders to ensure designs meet aesthetic standards and project goals.

With a focus on quality workmanship and innovative design, candidates should have significant experience in residential design and a robust portfolio. The firm values collaborative teamwork in a supportive environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in residential design experience, including fixtures and architectural design.
• 2+ years in residential architectural design and/or drafting experience.
• Proficient in reviewing, editing, and creating architectural plans.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire design teams to develop innovative design concepts.
• Collaborate with clients and stakeholders on project objectives.
• Manage design budgets and resources effectively.

Skills

Residential design experience

Proficiency in Revit

Portfolio showcasing design projects

Proficient in architectural construction systems

Ability to meet deadlines

Education

Architecture or Interior Design degree

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Job description

JOIN OUR TEAM

Architectural Lead Designer

Manager: Director of Design

Your Mission as Lead Designer:

The Lead Designer is a creative professional responsible for leading the design process, from concept development to final implementation, across various projects. They oversee design teams, guide the creative direction, and ensure that designs meet the client’s objectives and aesthetic standards.

Responsibilities:

• Design Leadership: Lead and inspire design teams to develop innovative and visually compelling design concepts that align with project goals and client requirements.
• Creative Direction: Provide clear creative direction and guidance to team members, ensuring consistency in design aesthetics and adherence to brand guidelines.
• Concept Development: Collaborate with clients, stakeholders, and cross‑functional teams to understand project objectives and translate them into conceptual design solutions.
• Design Execution: Oversee the execution of design concepts, from sketching and prototyping to final production. Ensure that designs are technically feasible and meet quality standards.
• Team Management: Recruit, train, and mentor design team members. Delegate tasks effectively, manage workloads, and provide constructive feedback to foster professional growth.
• Client Collaboration: Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding design‑related matters. Present design concepts, solicit feedback, and incorporate client input to refine designs.
• Project Coordination: Coordinate with project managers, architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to integrate design solutions into overall project plans and timelines.
• Quality Assurance: Conduct regular design reviews to ensure accuracy, consistency, and alignment with project objectives. Identify and address any design‑related issues or concerns proactively.
• Trend Research: Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and design innovations. Apply insights to enhance design processes and deliver cutting‑edge solutions.
• Budget and Resource Management: Manage design budgets, resources, and timelines effectively to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget constraints.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years in residential design experience, either in fixtures, fixtures, millwork, or in architectural design. A mix or combination of both experiences is a plus
• 2+ years in residential architectural design and/or drafting experience. We will help you grow your knowledge base on different architectural products and construction methods, but you must come ready with a strong background in how a set of plans comes together for an addition or kitchen. If you don’t know the difference between a crawlspace foundation, a slab on grade, and a frameless box construction cabinet, this may not be for you.
• Proficient in Revit (you are competent in the program and can produce quality work, but also desire to get even better). If you’re awesome at AutoCad and are prepared to make the ‘jump’ to Revit, we’d like to talk to you as well.
• Portfolio: Strong portfolio showcasing a diverse range of design projects, including conceptual sketches, digital mock‑ups, and final deliverables.
• An Architecture or Interior Design degree is a plus, but extensive hands‑on experience can be just as (or more) impressive.
• Proficient in residential remodeling/construction phases and architectural construction systems (i.e. foundations, framing, MEPs, etc) and/or kitchen/bath systems (i.e. cabinetry, tile, fixtures, etc)
• Proficient in reviewing, editing, and creating architectural plans and details.
• Comfortable with meeting demanding deadlines, across multiple projects, simultaneously. It’s a mouthful, but we mean it.
• Thrives working autonomously. Enjoys independence and trust, but appreciates and believes in the power of the ‘team.’
• Not shy or afraid to engage, own, and solve problems rapidly.
• Motivated by a company culture that always seeks improvement and rewards those who achieve it for themselves and the company as a whole.

About Schroeder Design Build

Schroeder Design Build is a second‑generation family‑owned design‑build firm that is dedicated to providing quality design and construction services at an extreme value. Our people‑centered company employs a diverse team of skilled professionals who not only care deeply about their role in elevating a client’s home remodeling experience but are also empowered to grow personally and professionally, each bringing to the table their full range of professional skills and personal traits that makes them unique and productive contributors to the success of the company.

Our crew, from the office staff to project managers and talented designers, are natural customer service agents; each possessing essential qualities that create positive client experiences. That’s why homeowners can expect open and ongoing communication, active listening, detailed documentation, and prompt follow‑through.

The company’s fundamental midwestern values are engrained in its people and guide decision‑making—honesty, hard work, great service, innovative design, and quality workmanship. Holding true to these values has allowed the company to produce a consistent quality product, a pleasing workplace, and an outlet for endless creativity.