Job Description

Your Role

Gensler Chicago’s Cities Studio isseekinghighly accomplished architecture professionals withdemonstratedexpertisein complex, multifaceted academicsciencesand research facilities. At Gensler, we are one community united by our commitment to holistically improvethe humanexperience. Guided by determined optimism, we use the power of design to spark positive change and create a future that promotes equity, resilience, and wellbeing for everyone.

The primary function of this role is to focus on the design development and technical detailing of the firm’s complex architectural projects. Under the supervision of a licensed architect, the Technical Designerassistsin developing strategiesfor the production ofarchitectural drawings and construction documentation across a variety of project types. This includes helping define andmaintaindesign standards throughout the lifecycle of each project.

As a Technical Designer in the Cities Studio, you will explore new ways of solving complex design problems at both the conceptual and technical levels—leveragingadvanced design tools and BIM workflows—while collaborating with integrated project teams. This position focuses on advanced design and technical innovation, and the selected candidate will serve in a key capacity contributing to Gensler’s distinguished portfolio of nationally and internationally recognized projects.

What You Will Do

• Contribute to all project phases, including conceptual design, presentations, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and production. This includes visually synthesizing client goals, project requirements, and design concepts into architectural solutions.
• Develop and document multiple conceptual design options that translate client goals into architectural plans and blueprints. These design strategies incorporate material selections, project dimensions, building code requirements, lighting considerations, and sustainability requirements.
• Prepare graphic presentations, visualizations, 3D renderings, and construction drawings to effectively communicate design intent to clients and project teamsusing tools such asEnscape, Lumion, or comparable real-time rendering platforms.
• Resolve complex technical and design challenges to ensure that project solutions meet regulatory requirements and design standards related to safety, functionality, aesthetics, serviceability, and market characteristics.Utilize computational analysis, environmental simulation, and digital prototyping tools tovalidatedesign performance.
• Resolve complex technical and design challenges to ensure that project solutions meet regulatory requirements and design standards related to safety, functionality, aesthetics, serviceability, and market characteristics.
• Develop and present complex design and technical solutions to institutional clients and executive stakeholders, incorporating feedback into iterative design revisions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary project teams, including structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers, to coordinate building systems,finalizeplans and specifications, and selectappropriate materialsand construction methods.Leverage BIM coordination workflows toidentifyand resolve clashes across disciplines.
• Coordinate with external consultants, contractors, fabricators, and specification writers to ensure the design isfeasible, constructible, and compliant with all applicable codes and regulations.
• Participate in construction administration activities, including preparing and reviewing construction documentation, code compliance summaries, and materialsrequiredfor building permits and regulatory approvals. These documents translate the project’s design intent into instructionsrequiredfor construction.
• Oversee and advise on construction administration processes to help ensure the successful execution of complex design intent on high-profile projects andassistin verifying builder compliance with design specifications under the supervision of a licensed architect.
• Manage client communications, project coordination, and consultant collaboration throughout project milestones, including presenting design progress and incorporating client feedback.
• Collaborate with regulatory agencies and project stakeholders to ensure that designscomply withall applicable building codes, safety standards, and permitting requirements.
• Contribute to office activities, professional development initiatives, and knowledge-sharing programs within the studio.
• Champion adoption of emerging design technologies and digital workflows across project teams.

Your Qualifications

• Bachelor’s orMaster’s degree in Architecturefrom a professionally accredited program
• 6+ years of progressively responsible experience working on complex, large-scale architectural projects, preferably including healthcare, academic sciences, or institutional environments
• Strong organizational, creative, and collaborative skills, with the ability to work independently while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Strong graphic, visualization, and presentation skills to effectively communicate design ideas
• Proficiencyin Autodesk Revit and Rhinoceros (Rhino)required;experience with Grasshopper for parametric design workflows preferred.Additionalproficiency in Autodesk AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suiteexpected Familiarity with real-time visualization tools (e.g.,Enscape, Lumion, or V-Ray), reality capture software is a plus.
• Passion for sustainable design practices and interest in pursuing certifications such as LEED,Fitwel, or similar sustainability credentials

Pleasesubmita portfolio ofrelevant work samples in PDF format along with yourresume.

**The estimated base salary range for this position is $73,000 - 86,000k, plus eligibility for bonuses and a comprehensive benefits package. Final compensation is contingent on location and relevant skills,qualificationsand experience. To learn more about our compensation philosophy and fullbenefitsofferings, please visit  Great People, Great Rewards | Gensler

Life at Gensler

At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to “Well-being Awareness Week,” our offices reflectour people’sdiverse interests.

We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life. Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offera 401k, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities. Our annual base salary range has beenestablishedbased on local markets.

As part of the firm’s commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.