Senior Architectural Designer

Smith Gee Studio; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architecture firm is seeking a Senior Designer to lead design and documentation phases across multiple projects. The role involves translating client goals into design concepts, mentoring junior staff, and coordinating with internal teams. Ideal candidates will have a professional degree in Architecture, at least 5 years of relevant experience, and proficiency in Revit. Candidates should be self-directed, collaborative, and committed to professional growth towards licensure.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience producing design and technical documentation.
• Proficiency in Revit and strong design documentation.
• Familiarity with building systems, codes, and documentation protocols.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and documentation phases across multiple projects.
• Coordinate effectively with internal team members.
• Review and refine work of junior designers.

Skills

Revit

Adobe Creative Suite

Strong communication

Organizational skills

Education

Professional degree in Architecture from a NAAB-accredited program

Job description

The Senior Designer at Smith Gee Studio is a highly skilled design professional, preferably on the path to licensure, who plays a critical role in both creative and technical project execution. This individual is responsible for translating design direction into technical documentation, coordinating effectively with internal and external team members, and providing guidance to junior staff. Senior Designers with our firm are expected to work across multiple projects and phases, contributing to the firm's quality standards and mentoring culture. They exemplify thoughtful leadership, collaboration, and accountability throughout project delivery and internal firm development.

Key Responsibilities

Project Organization

• Lead design and documentation phases across multiple projects.
• Translate client goals into compelling design concepts and detailed documentation.
• Coordinate effectively with internal team members and consultants to ensure technical and aesthetic cohesion, i.e. Design Excellence.
• Establish tasks for junior team members through coordination with project leadership.

Project Delivery & Coordination

• Assist Project Managers in proposal development, project tracking, and progress reporting.
• Support setup and review of QA/QC processes to ensure design and technical integrity.
• Lead internal and external presentations, collaborating directly with clients, consultants, and partners as required.
• Leads consultant coordination through communication, clash detection, and redline markups.
• Create redlines efficiently with an emphasis on reducing repeated errors.
• Act as a resource and coach for emerging professionals within the team.
• Look for opportunities to teach younger team members and provide mentorship as needed.
• Help advance the team’s design skill set and technical acumen through real-time training and feedback.
• Contribute to a culture of growth, clarity, and mutual support.

Quality Management

• Review and refine work of junior designers, ensuring alignment with building codes, zoning regulations, and firm standards.
• Ensure QM Checklist is completed at each phase of the project.
• Coordinate with QM team on schedules for all project related reviews.

Construction Administration

• Manage CA activities including site observations, pay application reviews, RFIs, and submittal workflows.
• Maintain documentation logs and project clarity across all stakeholders during construction.

Qualifications

• Education: Professional degree in Architecture from a NAAB-accredited program.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of relevant experience producing design and technical documentation across varied project types.
• Proficiency in Revit; strong design documentation and technical detailing,
• Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite;
• Familiarity with building systems, codes, and documentation protocols.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Attributes: Self-directed, collaborative, quality-driven, with strong communication and mentoring instincts.
• Professional Growth: Active pursuit of licensure and involvement in AIA or similar professional organizations is encouraged.