What are the responsibilities and job description for the Architectural Drafter position at KB Development?
We are a boutique real estate development firm with a design-build construction arm. We focus on urban infill, adaptive reuse, and high-impact residential and commercial projects throughout Chicago. Our team blends design thinking with practical execution, working on everything from multifamily housing and healthcare facilities to community-driven developments.
We’re seeking a sharp, motivated Architectural Drafter to support our design, entitlement, and development teams. This is a hands-on opportunity to gain exposure to both the creative and business sides of real estate—ideal for someone who wants to do more than just draft behind a screen.
Responsibilities
- Draft architectural drawings, zoning exhibits, and permit sets using AutoCAD or Revit
- Assist with conceptual design and schematic layouts for new developments
- Participate in feasibility studies and zoning research for potential acquisitions
- Collaborate with project managers and consultants to ensure design coordination
- Visit job sites, attend city meetings, and help translate design into construction-ready plans
- Prepare presentation boards, finish schedules, and renderings as needed
- Contribute to budgeting and early-stage estimating efforts
- Support design work on renovations and ground-up construction across different asset types
- Bring your ideas to our principals with the potential of seeing them come to life
Desired Skills
- Working knowledge of AutoCAD and/or Revit
- Familiarity with rendering/modeling tools (SketchUp, Rhino, Lumion, or similar)
- Passion for both architecture and real estate development
- Strong attention to detail and follow-through
- Ability to self-manage while collaborating across teams
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Interest or experience in zoning, code research, or construction administration is a plus
What You’ll Gain
- Hands-on experience across design, development, and construction
- Portfolio-building work on active real estate projects in Chicago
- Exposure to zoning research, entitlement strategy, and project feasibility
- Mentorship from experienced architects, developers, and construction leads
- Site visits, city meetings, and opportunities to see your drawings become reality
- Potential for future employment based on performance and fit
What Sets This Opportunity Apart
- You’ll be heard. At larger firms, interns rarely get to present original ideas. Here, you’ll have direct access to principals who are open to bold thinking—and willing to act on it. Plus, you have the opportunity to attend public discussions and meeting exposed to public media outlets.
- We can build what we imagine. We’re not just designers—we’re often also the builders and developers of our designs. That means no layers of client approval blocking good ideas. If we like it, we can build it.
- Unfiltered exposure to decision-making. You’ll sit closer to strategy than mid-level architects at most firms ever will, with real involvement in early-stage design, deal evaluation, and project execution.
- Design with authority. Many architectural firms have limited influence once the client gets involved. Here, on many projects, we are the client. That means your design ideas won’t just sit in a portfolio—they might actually get built.
Pay: $45,000.00 - $60,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Professional development assistance
Ability to Commute:
- Chicago, IL 60611 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Chicago, IL 60611: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: Hybrid remote in Chicago, IL 60611
Salary : $45,000 - $60,000