Residential Architect/Developer 5+Yrs EXP REQ

Smithouse Design+Build seeks a licensed residential Architect with extensive experience to lead design, documentation, and project development for a design-build practice located onsite in Cockeysville, Maryland. The role requires a substantial background in residential construction, including at least ten years of experience and a minimum of five years in a construction management capacity, guiding projects from initial client engagement through estimating to production handoff while ensuring compliance with codes, budgets, and client requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for residential renovation projects from concept through construction completion.
• Perform site surveys and thoroughly document existing conditions.
• Gather data to finalize architectural designs, visiting job sites as needed to obtain measurements.
• Develop schematic designs, design development packages, and full construction documents for remodels, additions, and interior work.
• Coordinate structural, electrical, and mechanical designs and determine presentation methods to graphically represent plans.
• Analyze building codes, by-laws, space and site requirements, and related documents to assess their impact on designs.
• Ensure designs meet client requirements, budgets, aesthetic goals, and comply with local zoning, IRC codes, and energy standards.
• Draft rough and detailed scale plans for foundations and structures based on concepts, sketches, calculations, and specifications.
• Utilize CAD software to produce high-quality drawings and 3D renderings for client reviews and permit submissions.
• Prepare colored landscape and interior drawings for client presentations.
• Serve as the primary design liaison among clients, internal construction teams, and external consultants (such as structural engineers).
• Prepare and submit documents for zoning approvals and building permits.
• Manage design phase schedules to ensure timely delivery of documentation.
• Present design concepts and revisions clearly to clients and internal stakeholders.
• Determine procedures and instructions aligned with design specifications and material quantities.
• Analyze the technical implications of design concepts.
• Conduct periodic site visits during construction to monitor progress and enforce plan quality.
• Review submittals, respond to RFIs, and issue clarifications or minor plan modifications as needed.
• Collaborate with the Project Manager and field supervisors to troubleshoot unexpected conditions and resolve construction issues swiftly.
• Lead new client meetings and coordinate with designers.
• Compile estimates and schedules and acquire trade contractor estimates.
• Perform field visits to verify estimated costs with due diligence.
• Participate in handoffs to production and post-project reviews, and contribute to process improvements with ROI considerations.
• Maintain proficiency in technology and company systems for effective project delivery.

Requirements

• Ten or more years of residential construction experience
• Five or more years as a Construction Manager
• 30-hour OSHA certification
• Knowledge of applicable codes and regulations
• Significant focus on residential renovations
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
• Current Architectural License in Maryland
• Expert proficiency in CAD
• Strong working knowledge of other relevant design and rendering tools
• Deep understanding of residential construction methods, especially wood-frame, and thorough knowledge of local building codes and permitting processes
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Graphic communication skills and highly organized, self-motivated, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously

Technologies

• CAD software
• AutoCAD

Benefits

• 401(k) Plan with company match
• Gym membership
• Cell phone stipend
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life and AD&D insurance
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance
• Additional dental, health, and vision coverage
• Paid time off

Hours

Full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm

Compensation

USD 100,000 to 130,000 per year

Paid Time Off

• Starting at 2 weeks
• Holidays

Ability to Commute

Cockeysville, MD 21030 (Required)

Work Location

In person