Associate Design Principal

HDR; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

HDR in Austin, Texas, is seeking an Associate Design Principal to lead architectural design for civic and community projects. You will be responsible for creative solutions, engaging directly with clients, and ensuring all concepts meet project goals.

The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, at least 10 years of leadership experience, and a commitment to sustainability. This position is full-time and offers an opportunity to influence community well-being through design.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years design leadership experience.
• Experience in healthcare, educational, civic, and research facilities.
• Registered Architect with proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Responsibilities

• Create and develop architectural concepts for clients.
• Lead various disciplines for overall building design.
• Market designs to prospective owners and clients.

Skills

Creative architectural concepts

Project goal analysis

Leadership in building design

Communication skills

Analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Autodesk Revit

Photoshop

Illustrator

SketchUp

3-D Studio Max

Rhino

Grasshopper

Job description

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

Watch Our Story: https://www.hdrinc.com/our-story

We believe architecture is more than designing buildings, it’s about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Architecture practice at HDR, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities.

Each and every role throughout our organization makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better. Read further to learn how you could help make great things possible not only in your community, but around the world.

In the role of Associate Design Principal, we'll count on you to:

• Take responsibility for creative concepts/solutions for complex architectural projects
• Meet directly with the owner/client, analyze project goals, conceive and develop architectural concepts/solutions for those goals
• Initiate and create designs and other documentation with responsibility for preparation of presentation drawings, models and narratives
• Provide senior leadership for all disciplines related to overall building design
• Represent our firm by participating as a key member of our business development team in marketing to prospective owners/clients
• Work with various disciplines throughout all phases to ensure all concepts/solutions accommodate project needs and the owner's program
• Perform other duties as needed

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture
• A minimum of 10 years design leadership experience
• Experience in the areas of healthcare, educational, civic, science and research facilities
• Experience and/or interest in sustainable design/LEED desired
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp and 3-D Studio Max
• Rhino and Grasshopper experience

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or closely related field
• A minimum of 10 years experience
• Registered Architect
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule)
• Excellent written and communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process
• Demonstrated graphic presentation skills
• Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee‑owned culture is a must

What We Believe

HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.

Our Commitment

As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.

Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Primary Location: United States - Texas - Austin
Industry: Architecture
Schedule: Full‑time
Employee Status: Regular
Business Class: Civic ARC
Job Posting: May 18, 2026

At HDR, we are committed to the principles of employment equity. We are an affirmative action and equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants, regardless of criminal histories, arrest and conviction records.