Junior Architectural Designer (ArchiCAD Specialist)

Spacial; Palo Alto (CA); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) benefits

Mentorship from senior architects

Supportive and collaborative studio environment

Job summary

A dynamic architectural firm in Palo Alto is seeking a Junior Architectural Designer with advanced proficiency in ArchiCAD. This in-person role involves developing construction drawings, collaborating on design projects, and preparing permit submittals. Ideal candidates have 3+ years in architectural offices and solid knowledge of California zoning codes. The company offers a supportive environment and comprehensive benefits, including health coverage and a 401(k).

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional experience in an architectural office.
• Direct experience submitting projects to local planning/building jurisdictions.
• Solid understanding of zoning codes and permitting processes in California.

Responsibilities

• Develop and produce design and construction drawings in ArchiCAD.
• Collaborate with project managers and architects on design phases.
• Prepare complete permit submittal packages.

Skills

Advanced proficiency in ArchiCAD

Strong technical drawing and detailing skills

Excellent communication skills

Ability to manage multiple tasks

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or related field

Tools

Twinmotion

Photoshop

SketchUp

Job description

We are seeking a talented and motivated Junior Architectural Designer with advanced proficiency in ArchiCAD to join our design team. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical skills, creativity, and a solid understanding of the permitting process. This role is best suited for a designer who has experience preparing and submitting drawing sets for review by local jurisdictions and is eager to grow within a collaborative architectural practice. This is an in-person role with the option of working hybrid from home a couple of times a week.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and produce design and construction drawings in ArchiCAD for residential and light commercial projects.
• Collaborate with project managers and senior architects on concept design, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation.
• Prepare complete permit submittal packages, ensuring compliance with local zoning ordinances, building codes, and jurisdictional requirements.
• Research and apply zoning codes, planning regulations, and permitting procedures for multiple jurisdictions.
• Coordinate with consultants, engineers, and city planning/building departments to ensure timely approvals.
• Assist in client presentations, design renderings, and documentation as required.
• Maintain accurate project files and contribute to a clear, organized workflow.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or related field (preferred but not required with equivalent experience).
• Advanced proficiency in ArchiCAD (required) with the ability to set up projects, manage layers, and produce clean, detailed construction documents.
• 3+ years of professional experience in an architectural office, with direct experience submitting projects to local planning/building jurisdictions.
• Solid understanding of zoning codes, planning approvals, and permitting processes in California.
• Strong technical drawing, detailing, and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Detail‑oriented, organized, and capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Preferred Skills

• Experience with residential design (single‑family and ADUs).
• Familiarity with 3D visualization, rendering, or BIM coordination.
• Knowledge of additional software (e.g., Twinmotion, Photoshop, SketchUp) is a plus.

Benefits (perks!)

• Thrive in a supportive and collaborative studio environment where your ideas are valued
• Grow and learn through mentorship from experienced senior architects
• Gain hands‑on experience across diverse projects and all phases of design and permitting
• Stay healthy with comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Be part of a dynamic start‑up culture that loves to build, innovate, and succeed as a team
• Plan for the future with our 401(k) benefits

Seniority level

• Mid‑Senior level

Employment type

• Full‑time

Job function

• Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology

Industries

• Software Development

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