Architectural Drafter/Technical Designer

Position Summary:

SMS Architects is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Architectural Technical Designer/Drafter to join our Irvine office. This position plays an important role in transforming conceptual designs into accurate, coordinated construction documents. The ideal candidate is technically proficient, highly organized, and enjoys working collaboratively with architects, designers, consultants, and clients throughout all phases of project development. This position offers opportunities to contribute to diverse commercial, mixed-use, hospitality, retail, and adaptive reuse projects while continuing to develop technical and professional skills.

Responsibilities:

Drafting & Technical Design

• Prepare architectural plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules, and construction documents based on sketches, design concepts, and redline markups.
• Develop accurate technical drawings throughout schematic design, design development, and construction documentation phases.
• Revise drawings based on project reviews, client feedback, consultant coordination, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain organized project files and documentation.

Project Coordination

• Collaborate with architects, designers, engineers, consultants, and project teams to coordinate design intent and technical requirements.
• Coordinate architectural drawings with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.
• Participate in project meetings, design reviews, and coordination sessions.
• Communicate effectively regarding project updates, revisions, technical questions, and deadlines.

Construction Documentation & Quality Control

• Assist in preparing permit and construction document packages.
• Review drawings for accuracy, consistency, constructability, and completeness.
• Help ensure drawings comply with applicable building codes, accessibility requirements, zoning regulations, and industry standards.
• Participate in internal quality control reviews to minimize errors and omissions.

Technical Production

• Utilize AutoCAD and Revit to produce high-quality architectural drawings and project documentation.
• Maintain project BIM models and adhere to office BIM/CAD standards.
• Assist with 3D modeling, renderings, and presentation graphics as needed.
• Apply knowledge of building materials, construction methods, and detailing to technical documentation.

Project Support

• Assist with material research, product selections, and specifications documentation.
• Support the preparation of client presentations, diagrams, graphics, and project exhibits.
• Track assigned tasks while meeting project schedules and deadlines.
• Maintain project records, documentation, and drawing logs.
• Stay current with drafting technology, software updates, and industry best practices.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

Required

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Drafting, Architectural Technology, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit.
• Understanding of architectural drafting principles, construction documentation, and building detailing.
• Familiarity with building materials, construction methods, and architectural standards.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative studio environment.

Preferred

• Experience working in a professional architecture or design firm.
• Experience with commercial, retail, hospitality, mixed-use, or adaptive reuse projects.
• Familiarity with SketchUp, Enscape, Lumion, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, or other visualization software.
• Knowledge of the California Building Code and accessibility requirements.
• Experience coordinating consultant drawings and permit submittals.

What You'll Gain:

• Opportunity to work on a diverse range of project types and scales.
• Close collaboration with experienced architects and firm leadership.
• Exposure to every phase of design and construction.
• Professional development in a collaborative, creative studio environment.
• Opportunity to grow your technical and architectural design skills while contributing to meaningful projects.