Lead Architect

EWP Architects; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 95,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent architecture firm based in Chicago is seeking a Lead Architect who will manage teams and enhance client relationships. The role requires a strong leader with over 8 years of professional experience and expertise in tools like Revit and AutoCAD. Ideal candidates will possess excellent communication and project management skills while thriving in a collaborative environment. This is an opportunity to shape project strategy and uphold design quality in a dynamic team setting.

Benefits

Employee life insurance

Short term disability insurance

Long term disability insurance

Flexible spending account (FSA) for healthcare and childcare

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in professional practice.
• Demonstrated experience with commercial interiors projects.
• Experience with furniture specification and procurement.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations on active projects from concept through construction.
• Collaborate with principals to define project vision, design approach, scope, and fees.
• Supervise junior staff and delegate responsibilities effectively.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Project Management

Collaboration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited US program

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Bluebeam

InDesign

Job description

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Direct message the job poster from EWP Architects

At EWP Architects, we are driven by a culture of curiosity, accountability, and empathy. We see ourselves first and foremost as problem solvers committed to delivering tailored, strategic solutions for each client. Our passion lies in leading the design process with clarity and intention, valuing the journey as much as the outcome.

We are self-starters, design thinkers, and lifelong learners. Our team thrives on energy and initiative, embracing complexity, mentorship, and collaboration. If you're someone who leads with empathy, takes full ownership, and pushes for excellence every step of the way you'll fit right in.

About the role

We are hiring a Lead Architect to join our Chicago office. This is a licensed role for a seasoned professional ready to take the lead on projects — guiding teams, managing clients, and contributing to firm operations. You’ll work closely with our principals to shape project strategy, uphold design quality, and build long-term client relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations on active projects from concept through construction.
• Collaborate with principals to define and present project vision, design approach, scope, and fees.
• Act as a primary client contact and project representative at times.
• Supervise junior staff and delegate responsibilities effectively.
• Prepare and lead discussions around BOMA area calculations and space planning strategies.
• Develop and review Construction Documents and specifications.
• Lead or support Construction Administration, including site visits, RFI’s, submittals, and pay application review.
• Lead Furniture selection and procurement processes.
• Independently coordinate with vendors, consultants, and contractors.
• Uphold and adapt office standards and workflows as needed.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited US Architecture program.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in professional practice.
• Mastery of Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and InDesign.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• A leadership mindset — capable of coaching teams, mentoring staff and guiding projects.
• Demonstrated experience with commercial interiors projects.
• Experience with furniture specification and procurement.
• Experience with project management.
• Experience generating fee proposals and managing workload capacity.
• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
• Employee life insurance
• Short term disability insurance
• Long term disability insurance
• Flexible spending account (FSA) for healthcare and childcare

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology

• Industries

  Architecture and Planning

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