Architect - Civic & Justice

NELSON is currently seeking a highly motivated and team-oriented Architect to join the Civic & Justice Practice. As an Architect, you will lead multiple projects through the design process, production of construction documents, and construction administration as part of a project team. The Architect develops solutions to technical problems, demonstrates leadership qualities, and a collaborative approach to the successful production of design and construction documents. Candidates should demonstrate experience in all aspects of the design process including: Programming, Master Planning, Conceptual, Schematic and Design Development presentations, 3D modeling, and the technical proficiency to successfully implement designs through the CD/CA phases. Responsibilities include participating in design phase activities and coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors throughout each project. Experience in Civic & Justice is required. This includes: Correctional facilities, Detention Centers, Courthouses, Public Safety buildings, Municipality buildings, etc. Architectural license in at least 1 state is required.

• Go All In. Own the Outcome. We go all in—with urgency, follow-through, and pride in the result.
• Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic.  We keep it real—with clarity, candor, and care. 
• Grow with Purpose.  We embrace growth—through learning, coaching, and continuous improvement. 
• Think Bold. Execute Smart.  We think boldly—and pair ambition with discipline. 
• Make Space for Everyone.  We value you—and build a culture where people can thrive and do their best work.

• →Good understanding of design, trends, construction methodology, materials application and manufacturer­ supplier appropriateness
• →Ability to adhere to project budgets and schedules
• →Good knowledge of building regulations, life safety codes and ADA requirements
• →Good knowledge of the construction process
• →Good knowledge of design techniques, tools, and processes involved in production of Construction Documents
• →Good knowledge of product specifications and detailing
• →Basic knowledge of LEED and Well requirements
• →Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
• →Ability to organize and prioritize tasks as needed to complete within the identified time frame
• →Required: Proficiency in AutoCAD/Architectural Desktop or Revit, MS Word, Excel, Outlook, Bluebeam Revu
• →Basic knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, Sketchup
• →Basic knowledge of MS Project
• →Basic knowledge of Newforma Project Center
• →Basic knowledge of Deltek Vantagepoint

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned:

Leadership:

• →Assist project team with design and technical questions during each project
• →Share knowledge with the entire studio and be a resource to the entire NELSON staff
• →Be a mentor to staff, including interns
• →Contribute as a Team Leader, on an as needed basis as it relates to individual performance & development within the project team
• →Embrace specific steps to create, develop and promote a diverse workforce and to promote an inclusive environment

Project Delivery:

• →Assist with proposal and contract documents
• →Contribute to the work plan for each project
• →Prepare and oversee the preparation of Concept, Schematic Design, Design Development and Construction Documents using software skills listed above
• →Conduct field surveys as required
• →Generate overall project design concepts
• →Develop and/or oversee the development of design concepts into complete design development set and further advance into complete construction drawings
• →Oversee material research and compilation of project data and incorporation throughout each project
• →Prepare project specifications
• →Communicate with project team members and resolve drawing discrepancies independently
• →Coordinate and incorporate work of internal and external project consultants
• →Oversee the preparation of Addenda and Bulletin documentation
• →Review Shop Drawings
• →Sign and seal drawings as needed
• →Review, respond to and track RFls
• →Attend construction meetings, make periodic site observation visits as required by contract
• →Prepare and update punch lists as required
• →Adhere to NELSON standards in the preparation of deliverables
• →Review and correct your own work and work of the project team including both internal and external consultants following established QA procedures
• →Review and understand applicable building codes and other standards (including Accessibility Standards)
• →Prepare zoning and building code analysis and review
• →Assist with the timely submittal of drawings to the appropriate authorities having jurisdiction
• →Oversee the maintenance and archiving of electronic project files
• →Understand project scope and identify items that are beyond the original scope of services and bring to attention of project lead
• →Draft Client agreement change orders and Sub Consultant agreement change orders as directed by project lead
• →Prepare meeting agendas, meeting minutes, phone conversation notes, to document the progress of the project and directions received from the Client
• →Attend project meetings
• →Share knowledge with other teammates and assist team with design and/or detailing challenges

Client Relationships:

• →Maintain secondary client contact as back up to primary contact

Business Development:

• →Assist in secondary marketing by maintaining good working relationships with Client contacts
• →Attend interviews as requested by project lead, Studio or Market Leaders

Continuing Education and Professional Development:

• →Maintain licensure by fulfilling continuing education
• →Continuously enhance skills in required software by attending in-house training and working on billable
• →Enhance management and communication

Certificates, Licenses, or Registrations Required:

• →Architectural license in at least one (1) state

Education / Experience:

• →Minimum of a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from an accredited University plus:
• →7+ years' experience; or equivalent in appropriate education and experience working in the field of

Billable Expectations:

• →Billable percentage expected to be 90%-95% or greater on an on-going basis

• Architectural license in at least 1 state

• Minimum 7 years of industry experience

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture from an accredited university 
• Expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, SpecLink, Newforma, SketchUp, Photoshop and InDesign
• Advanced knowledge of building life safety and ADA codes
• Strong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skills
• Experience in Civic & Justice is required. This includes: Correctional facilities, Detention Centers, Courthouses, Public Safety buildings, Municipality buildings, etc.

National average salary range: $80,000 – $120,000 (7+ years experience). Additional compensation includes bonuses and benefits (compensation factors are based upon years of relevant experience, qualifications/licensure, education, and location.) Bonuses can include but are not limited to: Long Term Incentive Plan, Short Term Incentive Plan, Profit Sharing

#LI-MV1

#LI-Hybrid