Junior Architectural Designer

Archinect; Los Angeles, Northern (CA, KY); Hybrid; USD 55,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Synthesis Design + Architecture (SDA) in Los Angeles is seeking a Junior Architectural Designer to join the DTLA studio and contribute to adaptive-reuse projects and custom commercial builds. You will develop 3D models, drawings, and visualizations under senior direction and engage in computational design exploration.

The role emphasizes strong graphic communication, collaboration with design and technical execution, and opportunities to prototype with digital and physical fabrication methods.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or related design field.
• 0–3 years of professional experience (internships count).
• Strong proficiency in Rhino.
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong graphic and visual communication skills, evidenced by portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Develop architectural models, drawings, diagrams, and visualizations under senior direction.
• Support computational and parametric design investigations (Grasshopper or similar).
• Conduct precedent, material, and fabrication research.
• Assist with physical and digital prototyping, including 3D printing and CNC processes.
• Support construction documentation and site/scan-based digital model coordination.
• Prepare presentation materials for internal review and client meetings.

Skills

Rhino

Adobe Creative Suite

Portfolio

Education

Architecture degree

Tools

Rhino

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Synthesis Design + Architecture (SDA) is a progressive Los Angeles design practice that embraces new definitions of craft, merges form with performance, and makes a case for the role of innovative architecture in our contemporary creative culture.We're looking for a Junior Architectural Designer to join our DTLA studio and contribute across a range of active work, including an ambitious adaptive-reuse project converting an existing creative-office/warehouse building into a technology/media-driven creative headquarters, and a highly customized small-footprint commercial buildout featuring a sculptural, digitally fabricated enclosure and specialty material systems. Both projects call for strong three-dimensional design development and close collaboration between design intent and technical execution.

Responsibilities

• Develop architectural models, drawings, diagrams, and visualizations under senior direction
• Support computational and parametric design investigations (Grasshopper or similar)
• Conduct precedent, material, and fabrication research
• Assist with physical and digital prototyping, including 3D printing and CNC processes
• Support construction documentation and site/scan-based digital model coordination
• Prepare presentation materials for internal review and client meetings

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or related design field
• 0–3 years of professional experience (internships count)
• Strong proficiency in Rhino
• Working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite
• Strong graphic and visual communication skills, evidenced by portfolio

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Grasshopper or other parametric/computational tools
• Familiarity with Revit and construction documentation standards
• Interest or experience in digital fabrication (CNC, 3D printing, robotic fabrication)
• Experience or interest in working with advanced AI design workflows
• Compensation: $55,000–$65,000/year, depending on experience

Equal Employment Opportunity: SDA is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.