Senior Architectural Designer – Project Lead

NewGround

Senior Architectural Designer / Project Lead overseeing design and project delivery at NewGround, collaborating across teams to ensure client goals are met.

Posted 4/15/2026full-timeChicago • Illinois • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $135,000 - $155,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Overseeing the design and delivery of multiple projects from strategy and concept through completion
Leading cross-functional teams (Strategy, Architecture, Engineering, Interiors, Environmental Graphics, Multi-sensory) to deliver integrated project solutions
Serving as primary design point of contact for clients
Developing and managing project schedules, budgets, work plans, and resource allocations
Coordinating internal and external consultants, vendors, and NewGround Build Team to maintain project momentum and quality
Coordinating with Program Directors, Senior Project Managers, Pre-Construction Managers, and estimators from NewGround Build team
Leading the team in development of details and technical drawings
Delivering projects on schedule and within budget
Assisting in the development of specifications
Maintaining quality control as related to design

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture is required
Architectural License preferred
NCARB certification preferred
8 – 10+ years of professional experience in commercial architecture required
Experience in design of corporate headquarters / office buildings preferred
Experience in retail design preferred
WELL AP credential preferred
LEED AP credential preferred
Proficient with Microsoft Office Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Outlook)
Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Smartsheet, Adobe Creative Suite, and experience with rendering programs such as Enscape, Lumion, etc.
Experience with Procore or comparable software
Experience with SpecLink or comparable software
Ability to manage several projects at once at different stages of development
Strong conceptual design skills
Strong organizational, verbal, visual, and written communication skills with ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
Substantial experience in project management and design team leadership
Experience in all phases of project development
Knowledge of building materials, building systems, site requirements, specifications, and construction techniques

Benefits

Comp & perks

Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays
401(k) with company match
Paid parental leave
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Sabbatical program

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

project managementdesigntechnical drawingsspecificationsbuilding materialsbuilding systemsconstruction techniquescorporate headquarters designretail designconceptual design

Soft Skills

organizational skillsverbal communicationvisual communicationwritten communicationcollaborative teamworkleadershiptime managementresource allocationquality controlclient relations

Certifications

Architectural LicenseNCARB certificationWELL AP credentialLEED AP credential