Associate Consultant, New Design Services

VDA; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

VDA, based in Chicago, seeks an Associate Consultant to support the design and implementation of vertical transportation systems, including elevators and escalators, from concept through construction. This client-facing role blends technical expertise with project coordination and problem solving.

You will collaborate with clients and internal teams across design phases, track milestones, and contribute to reports and presentations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
• 5+ years of experience in a similar or related role.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)
• Willingness to travel throughout the Midwest.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary support partner on client engagements and project teams
• Manage proposal submissions, including RFPs and design competition responses
• Support clients across all design phases: Concept, Schematic, Design Development, Construction Documents, and Construction Administration
• Track project milestones, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables
• Conduct technical research, data analysis, and contribute to client-facing reports and presentations
• Attend and participate in internal and client meetings, offering insight and feedback
• Maintain project documentation and contribute to overall team efficiency and organization

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Organizational skills

Proactive mindset

Client-facing

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Tools

Trimble

Procore

Bluebeam

ASME A17.1

Job description

About The Role

Join VDA as an Associate Consultant and take the next step in your professional journey within the vertical transportation industry. This client-facing, multidisciplinary role blends technical expertise, project coordination, and problem-solving to support the design and implementation of elevators, escalators, and other conveyance systems.

As a key contributor to our New Design Services team, you will work closely with clients, and internal stakeholders to identify challenges, propose innovative solutions, and help ensure successful project delivery. You’ll play a critical role in maintaining operational excellence across projects—from initial concept through construction completion.

This is an ideal opportunity for someone who is detail-oriented, thrives in a dynamic environment, and is eager to grow their expertise in consulting, communication, and project management.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field


• 5+ years of experience in a similar or related role


• Excellent verbal and written communication skills


• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and proactive


• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, MS Project)


• Comfortable working with cross-functional teams and external clients


• Willingness to travel throughout the Midwest

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in sales, project management, consulting, or engineering design services


• Familiarity with construction and design coordination software (e.g., Trimble, Procore, Adobe Construction Cloud, Bluebeam)


• Working knowledge of ASME A17.1, International Building Codes, and Vertical Transportation Equipment


• Understanding of construction methodology related to vertical transportation

Responsibilities

• Serve as a primary support partner on client engagements and project teams


• Manage proposal submissions, including RFPs and design competition responses


• Support clients across all design phases: Concept, Schematic, Design Development, Construction Documents, and Construction Administration


• Track project milestones, ensuring timely and high-quality deliverables


• Conduct technical research, data analysis, and contribute to client-facing reports and presentations


• Attend and participate in internal and client meetings, offering insight and feedback


• Maintain project documentation and contribute to overall team efficiency and organization

Why Join VDA?

Collaborative Culture:

Work in an inclusive, supportive environment that values your contributions.

Growth Opportunities:

Gain hands-on industry experience and grow into leadership or technical roles.

Impactful Work:

Help shape safer, more efficient vertical transportation systems in buildings across the U.S. and abroad.

Expanding Horizons:

Be part of a company in growth mode, including acquisitions and global expansion.