Description

 About NewGround

NewGround is the industry leader in designing, building, and strategizing for financial institution and retail spaces. From banks and credit unions to major retailers, we set the standard for next generation workplace and retail solutions, and we have for over 100 years. Our wide-spread team includes architects, engineers, interior designers, strategy experts, and more, all with a creative and passionate mindset. NewGround approaches every client and project with the same core values: Service, Excellence, Innovation, Collaboration, Communication. We ingrain these core values into every aspect of our organization, at all levels. We have a wide-spread regional presence throughout the U.S. and Canada, with a headquarters located in St. Louis and additional locations in Chicago, Honolulu, and Waterloo, Ontario. Our diverse team of creative professionals always strive to set a new industry standard, and help our clients master their spaces and facilities.

POSITION DESCRIPTION 

This position is a design team member for the Chicago Architecture and Interior Design Studio and is intended for a person at the early stages of their career. They are expected to be a collaborative and vital member of the design team. They should be inquisitive and eager to learn and grow their design skills. They will be responsible for their own projects from start to finish so persistence for solving problems, listening to feedback from all team members, and having an ability to pivot quickly from task to task are essential for success. They will have opportunities to manage their own smaller projects and work on larger programs of work. The studio is founded on the idea that what we design is for other people, so empathy and a desire to understand other people’s points of view and individual priorities is critical. This position offers candidates the opportunity to gain the NCARB AXP experience required to pursue architectural licensure.

GENERAL SKILLS

• Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) 
• Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and experience with rendering programs such as Enscape, etc.
• Well organized and able to work collaboratively in a team environment
• Strong presentation and communication skills with a solid aptitude for conceptual design 
• Ability to manage several projects, at different stages of development, concurrently 
• Ability to solve problems quickly, take and act on feedback, and collaborate effectively with team members, consultants, and clients
• Ability to empathize and see design problems from other people’s point of view 
• Able to solve problems while balancing details with the bigger picture
• Understanding and knowledge of building codes and zoning regulations (for candidates with 2 or more years of experience)
• Understanding and knowledge of building systems and site requirements (for candidates with 2 or more years of experience)

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Participate in project programming and site analysis
• Participate in Concept and Schematic Design
• Generate and manage development of construction documents under supervision of a Licensed Architect
• Participate in construction administration such as responding to RFIs, ASIs and Addendums, and tracking all construction administration documentation
• Prepare and participate in client design presentations
• Coordinate consultants
• Act as day-to-day client and consultant contact
• Take part in site surveys, code research, zoning research, and due diligence reports
• Collaborate with and mentor junior team members as needed
• Perform all other related work, as assigned or as apparent[i]

EXPECTATIONS

• Some travel required
• Progress towards Architectural registration 

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE PREREQUISITES 

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in Architecture required
• 0 - 5 years of experience in design
• Retail or hospitality design experience preferred, but not required 
• Revit experience is REQUIRED

This job description is only a summary of the typical functions of the job, not an exhaustive or comprehensive list of all possible job responsibilities, tasks, and duties. The responsibilities, tasks, and duties may differ from those outlined in the job description and other duties, as assigned, may be required. This document does not create an employment contract. Employees are employed on an “at will” basis and may be terminated at any time for any reason or no reason at all.