What are the responsibilities and job description for the Designer, Planning position at Hanbury?
Locations: Grand Rapids, MI (preferred); Blacksburg,VA; Richmond,VA; Norfolk,VA; Raleigh,NC; Baltimore,MD
Driven by global thinking and local impact, Hanbury is an architecture firm that designs environments for people. With practical optimism, we push the boundaries of what's possible while staying rooted in what's indispensable. We design experiences that naturally draw people in – ones that are curated, aspirational, and a refreshing departure from the ordinary. Through acting with empathy, planning adaptably, and designing holistically, we deliver ideas with stretch. Learn more about Hanbury here.
About the Role
We’re seeking a thoughtful and collaborative Designer, Planning—an early-career professional with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture, planning, or a related field—who is eager to grow within a design-driven practice. In this full-time, in-office role, you’ll support the development of planning and design concepts for campus, institutional, and mixed-use projects, contributing across phases from early studies and master planning through construction documentation and project delivery. This position is ideal for someone with strong graphic communication skills, a passion for sustainable design, and a commitment to creating environments that are meaningful, lasting, and client focused.
Job Responsibilities
Planning Design Support
- Support the development of planning and design concepts across a variety of project types, including campus, institutional, and mixed-use environments
- Assist in the preparation of design studies, site plans, master planning graphics, and planning documentation that communicate project intent
- Contribute to feasibility analysis, entitlement support, and early-stage planning strategies under the direction of senior leadership
- Explore environmentally responsible design alternatives, material choices, building orientation, and system approaches consistent with client goals, schedule, and budget
- Prepare drawings and project documentation utilizing computer-assisted design software and related tools
Project Delivery Coordination
- Assist in the development of Construction Documents, including drawings and specifications, that reflect approved design direction and regulatory requirements
- Coordinate with internal team members and external consultants to support integrated project delivery
- Support bidding and procurement efforts, including preparation of bid documents, review of substitution requests, and distribution of addenda
- Participate in Construction Phase Services by attending site visits, preparing field reports, reviewing submittals, and supporting certification of contractor payments
- Assist in inspections to determine Substantial and Final Completion milestones
Collaboration Professional Growth
- Collaborate with the design and planning team to uphold the firm’s expected quality standards and contribute to design excellence
- Support Hanbury’s Holistic Design Process, including Project Vision Consensus, Work Planning, Risk Management, Client Relations, Monitoring and Control, and Lessons Learned
- Engage in mentorship opportunities and ongoing professional development within the planning practice
- Promote the purpose and core values of the firm through teamwork, integrity, and commitment to client service
- Perform additional duties as assigned in support of project and firmwide goals