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If you’ve Googled “architect job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over:
Bullet points. Buzzwords. Boilerplate.
They all follow the same lifeless formula:
Job summary. Responsibilities. Requirements. Apply here.
But here’s the problem:
These kinds of posts don’t attract creative, mission-driven architects.
They don’t reflect your firm’s vision.
And they don’t sell the opportunity to shape real-world spaces with meaning.
Top architects aren’t just job hunting — they’re opportunity hunting.
They want to know what kind of projects they’ll work on, who they’ll collaborate with, and why it matters.
So if your job post reads like a corporate checklist, don’t be surprised when your best applicants scroll right past it.
Before we dive into the architect role specifically, it’s worth stepping back.
If you haven’t already, read our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
It walks you through everything most job descriptions get wrong — from vague titles to cold, robotic language — and teaches you how to write posts that connect, convert, and reflect your culture.
Because writing a job post isn’t just about filling a role.
It’s about telling a story that makes the right person say: “This sounds like me.”
In this guide, we’ll show you how to apply those same principles to the architect role.
We’ll start by defining what the role really is (in plain English), then share two standout job description templates — one for seasoned professionals, and one for entry-level or willing-to-train candidates.
We’ll also break down why they work, what to avoid, and how to use AI the smart way when writing your post.
Let’s get started.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What An Architect Actually Does - Their Roles
So… what does an architect actually do?
Forget the buzzwords for a second. Here’s the real version:
An architect doesn’t just draw buildings — they bring ideas to life.
They translate abstract concepts into physical spaces that people live in, work in, learn in, and move through every day.
Yes, they create plans and ensure compliance.
But great architects do much more than that — they balance creativity with constraints.
They think about how a space feels, not just how it looks.
They work closely with clients, engineers, city officials, and contractors — turning visions into structures that are functional, beautiful, and sustainable.
And depending on your firm’s focus, that could mean designing anything from modern family homes to commercial towers, public parks, hospitals, or schools.
At their core, architects are problem solvers.
They combine form, function, and budget realities into something people experience every single day.
So when writing your job description, don’t reduce the role to “creates blueprints.”
Explain how your architect will contribute to the bigger picture — and why their work matters.
Two Great Architect Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Architect – Culture-First Style
📌 Job Title: Lead Architect for Urban Projects – Help Shape Tomorrow’s Cityscapes
📍 Location: Hybrid – New York, NY
💼 Full-Time | Architecture & Planning
💰 Salary: $85,000–$110,000/year (based on experience)
🎥 A Quick Note from Our Co-Founder
Watch this short video to hear from Julia, our co-founder, about our approach to urban design and what this role will mean to our future.
👉 [Watch Julia’s Message (Loom link)]
🏢 About Us
At Fairstone Studio, we believe architecture should tell a story — about people, place, and purpose.
Based in New York City, we’re a boutique architecture and planning studio focused on transforming underused city spaces into vibrant, human-centered environments. From reimagined public parks to mixed-use civic centers, our work is grounded in community impact and timeless design.
With over 40 successful projects across five states and a team of 18 cross-functional creatives, we’re ready to grow our leadership team — and that’s where you come in.
👥 Our Culture
We keep our teams small, our meetings meaningful, and our values loud.
We collaborate daily, celebrate progress (not just perfection), and encourage ownership at every level. At Fairstone, critique is constructive, leadership is accessible, and everyone’s voice matters — from intern to principal. We believe architecture should serve people, and so should your workplace.
🏗️ What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead concept development and technical execution for mid-to-large-scale civic and urban projects
- Collaborate with clients, engineers, and planners through every project phase
- Oversee zoning/code compliance, permitting, and documentation
- Present ideas to stakeholders with clarity and confidence
- Mentor junior architects and contribute to our studio culture
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years of experience in architectural design (urban, civic, or institutional work preferred)
- Licensed architect (or on track) with a strong portfolio
- Skilled in Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe CS (Rhino is a plus)
- Clear communicator and team collaborator
- Passionate about design that improves city life
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Hybrid schedule (3 days in-office, 2 remote)
- Health, dental, and vision insurance (100% covered)
- 401(k) with employer match
- Paid parental leave (up to 10 weeks)
- 20 PTO days + all major holidays
- Annual professional development stipend
- Bi-annual studio retreats (last one: Joshua Tree!)
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
If you’re ready to lead projects with autonomy, contribute to meaningful design, and grow within a supportive studio, Fairstone is your place.
Here, you’ll get a seat at the table, the space to innovate, and the chance to make a visible difference in the built environment.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to assess candidates based on real-world skills — not just résumés.
To apply, follow this link, complete a short evaluation, and we’ll be in touch within 7–10 days.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
✅ Option 2:Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Architect
📌 Job Title: Junior Architect (Entry-Level) – Learn & Design With Impact
📍 Location: Phoenix, AZ
💼 Full-Time | Architecture & Design
💰 Salary: $55,000–$65,000/year + mentorship track
🎥 Meet the Studio Team
Want to know what it’s like to start your career with us?
Watch this quick welcome video from our Senior Architect, Malik, on how we support junior hires.
👉 [Watch Malik’s Message (Loom link)]
🏢 About Us
Haven Design Group is a Phoenix-based architecture firm focused on socially impactful spaces — community centers, public libraries, early education facilities, and workforce housing.
For over a decade, we’ve worked closely with nonprofits, municipalities, and private developers to create environments where people feel safe, seen, and supported. Our mission: use architecture to elevate the everyday.
Now we’re growing, and we’re looking for someone early in their career to grow with us.
👥 Our Culture
We’re a mentorship-first studio.
That means weekly learning sessions, open project walk-throughs, and a company Slack channel where questions are encouraged — not judged. We promote curiosity, collaboration, and kindness. You’ll get real feedback, real ownership, and real support to do your best work here.
🧠 What You’ll Be Doing
- Assist with drafting, modeling, and documentation for in-progress projects
- Attend client meetings and site visits alongside senior staff
- Learn to apply building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility guidelines
- Contribute ideas in design sessions and studio critiques
- Work closely with project architects from concept to closeout
✅ What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a related field
- Some familiarity with Revit, AutoCAD, or SketchUp (we’ll train you)
- Strong visual communication skills
- Open to feedback, eager to learn, and ready to roll up your sleeves
- Bonus: Passion for community design or experience in nonprofit work
Don’t meet every qualification? Please apply anyway. We care more about your mindset than your résumé.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental & vision insurance
- 15 PTO days + paid holidays
- Paid volunteer hours (up to 16 hours/year)
- Mentorship program for licensure prep
- Continuing education support (conferences, ARE, etc.)
- Flexible work hours + 1 WFH day/week
- Office dog, cold brew tap, and quarterly field trips 🐾
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t just assist — you’ll contribute.
This role is built for growth, and you’ll be surrounded by a team that wants to see you succeed.
Whether you’re fresh out of school or switching careers, we’ll help you build the foundation for a meaningful, lasting design career.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate all applicants fairly and efficiently.
Click below to complete a quick skill-based assessment and tell us why you’re excited about this role.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Architect Job Posts Work
Let’s break down what makes the two architect job descriptions above effective — and why they’re far more likely to attract the right candidates compared to generic, templated posts.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Purpose-Driven
Instead of “Architect Needed,” each title signals:
- The seniority level (Lead Architect, Junior Architect)
- The mission or focus of the role (“Shape Tomorrow’s Cityscapes,” “Learn & Design With Impact”)
- The location and working style (Hybrid in NYC, Full-Time in Phoenix)
This instantly filters for relevance and shows candidates the role is real, human, and thoughtfully crafted.
✅ 2. The Introductory Video Adds a Human Touch
Including a Loom or short welcome video builds trust and transparency.
Candidates get a glimpse of who they might work with — not just what they’ll be doing.
This small addition can dramatically increase engagement and make your post stand out in a crowded job market.
✅ 3. The ‘About Us’ Section Tells a Story
Instead of a vague company overview, each description paints a picture of the firm’s mission, focus areas, and team size.
Candidates get clarity on the kind of work they’ll contribute to and the broader vision they’ll be part of.
This builds emotional connection — not just transactional interest.
✅ 4. The Culture Section Makes It Personal
Rather than just claiming to “value collaboration,” the posts show what that looks like in action.
From weekly design reviews to mentorship-first environments, the culture is made real — which helps applicants imagine themselves on the team.
✅ 5. Responsibilities Show Impact, Not Just Tasks
Notice how the duties aren’t framed as a checklist.
They describe outcomes, collaboration, and contribution — helping candidates understand why their work matters, not just what they’ll do.
This signals purpose and ownership, which top candidates actively seek.
✅ 6. The Requirements Are Grounded and Encouraging
The experienced role sets clear expectations.
The entry-level role openly invites candidates who may not meet every bullet point — showing that you hire for potential, not perfection.
That increases your applicant pool without lowering standards.
✅ 7. Perks & Benefits Are Transparent and Tangible
Instead of a vague “competitive benefits package,” each job spells out real perks:
- Insurance coverage
- PTO details
- Professional development stipends
- Team retreats or wellness programs
Transparency builds trust — and saves you time by attracting only those aligned with what’s offered.
✅ 8. “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Speaks to the Right Candidate
This is your pitch section — and both posts use it to reinforce:
- Autonomy and mentorship
- Visibility and growth
- Team support and meaningful work
Instead of assuming the candidate wants the job, this section sells it — and speaks directly to what the right person is likely looking for.
✅ 9. The Application Process Is Respectful and Skill-Based
The WorkScreen call-to-action avoids the generic “email your résumé” instruction.
It shows that the hiring process is:
- Structured
- Skills-first
- Fair and time-efficient
That’s not only better for candidates — it also reflects well on your brand.
Bad Architect Job Description Example (and Why It Fails)
❌ Bad Job Post Example:
📌 Job Title: Architect
📍 Location: Remote
💼 Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking to hire a qualified Architect to manage planning and design of building projects. The Architect will oversee design development, construction documentation, and ensure code compliance.
Key Responsibilities
- Create detailed architectural drawings
- Coordinate with contractors and engineers
- Ensure compliance with building regulations
- Review blueprints and specifications
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture
- 3–5 years of experience in the field
- Familiarity with AutoCAD and Revit
- Strong organizational and time management skills
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@companymail.com by August 1, 2025.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This Job Post Falls Short
⚠️ 1. The Job Title Is Vague and Uninspiring
“Architect” is technically accurate — but completely generic.
It doesn’t signal what type of projects, what kind of firm, or why this role matters. It could be any architect job, at any company, anywhere.
⚠️ 2. The Intro Lacks Meaning or Mission
There’s no mention of the company, its values, its work, or why this role exists.
Top candidates want purpose, context, and clarity — this summary delivers none of that.
⚠️ 3. Responsibilities Are Generic and Shallow
The tasks listed are so broad they could apply to any firm or role. There’s no connection to the impact or purpose of the work, and nothing that makes the role feel unique.
⚠️ 4. No Culture, No Personality
There’s zero mention of team dynamics, mentorship, or how the company works together. For a creative, collaborative field like architecture, this omission is a red flag.
⚠️ 5. No Perks or Benefits Mentioned
Leaving out perks makes the company seem outdated — or worse, like it doesn’t value employees enough to communicate what it offers. Candidates interpret this silence as a lack of investment in people.
⚠️ 6. The Hiring Process Feels Cold and Outdated
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is dismissive. It signals high volume, low care, and a lack of respect for applicants’ time and effort.
There’s also no clarity on what happens next — just a vague inbox and an expiration date.
⚠️ 7. No Call to Action That Motivates
The post ends with a dead-end. There’s no reason to be excited or hopeful, no sign of engagement or enthusiasm from the employer.
✅ When compared side by side with the good examples above, this bad post clearly demonstrates what not to do — and reinforces the importance of crafting job descriptions that reflect who you are and who you want to attract.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Architect Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve written a thoughtful, well-structured job description, these bonus elements can take it from good to truly standout. These small but powerful touches increase trust, improve candidate experience, and make your post more memorable and human.
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
Scams are everywhere — and job seekers are cautious. A simple statement can reassure candidates and build credibility.
📝 Example:
“We take the privacy and security of all job applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, financial details, or sensitive personal information during the hiring process. If you receive a suspicious message claiming to be from us, please report it immediately.”
🌴 2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Flexibility is one of the most appreciated (and expected) benefits in modern workplaces. Even if your PTO is standard, communicating it clearly shows transparency and care.
📝 Example:
“Enjoy up to 20 days of paid time off annually, plus major holidays — so you can recharge and come back stronger.”
Or, if you’re offering flexible hours:
“We operate on a flexible schedule that allows team members to adjust their hours for better work-life balance.”
📈 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Whether you support licensure, offer a mentorship program, or fund conference attendance, make it known. Talented candidates want to grow — and want to know you’ll help them do it.
📝 Example:
“We provide a $1,000 annual learning stipend for conferences, software certifications, or ARE prep materials. Your growth is our priority.”
🎥 4. Include a Loom or YouTube Video from the Hiring Manager or Team
This is a major differentiator. A 1–2 minute video builds instant trust, shows real faces behind the brand, and makes your job post stand out in a feed of text walls.
📝 What to Record:
- A welcome from the founder or hiring manager
- A short intro to your studio or team
- A message explaining what kind of person thrives in the role
Even casual, unscripted videos (recorded with your phone or Loom) go a long way.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
💬 5. Use Plain, Honest, Human Language
Even with a great structure, tone matters. Avoid jargon like “synergy,” “fast-paced environment,” or “rockstar architect.” Instead, speak like you would in a conversation.
📝 Instead of:
“Must be results-oriented and able to work in a high-pressure environment.”
📝 Try:
“We move quickly and keep projects exciting — if you like working on things that matter with people who care, you’ll fit right in.”
These tips aren’t just nice-to-haves — they show that your company is thoughtful, transparent, and trustworthy. And in today’s market, that’s exactly what top candidates are looking for.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
Let’s be honest — AI tools are everywhere.
Many hiring platforms (like Manatal, Workable, or BreezyHR) now offer AI-generated job descriptions with a single click.
But here’s the catch:
AI isn’t a shortcut for strategy.
And relying on it blindly can cost you great candidates.
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your Job Post from Scratch
Using AI to instantly spit out a job description without context or input usually leads to:
- Generic, lifeless content full of buzzwords and clichés
- No sense of company culture or tone
- Posts that attract the wrong candidates (because they’re too broad or robotic)
- A bad first impression of your brand
Your job post is one of the first things a candidate sees — and generic AI output can make your company look disconnected, impersonal, or outdated.
So don’t treat it like a box to check.
Treat it like a sales page for a role that matters.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI in Your Job Description Workflow
AI can be a powerful writing assistant — if you give it the right ingredients.
Think of it like a recipe:
You provide the ingredients, and AI helps you cook it into something structured, polished, and easier to digest.
✍️ Use This Prompt Template to Get Better AI Results
“Help me write a job post for our company, [Your Company Name].
We’re hiring a [Job Title] to help with [Key Responsibilities].
Our culture is [Describe Your Team Culture in 1–2 Sentences], and we want to attract candidates who are [Ideal Traits You’re Looking For].
We offer the following benefits: [List Your Benefits], and here is our salary range: [Include Range].
We also offer [Training/Growth Opportunities] and follow this hiring process: [Explain Clearly].
Here are a few notes to get you started:
[Paste any specific messaging, tone, or structure guidelines you care about].”
You can even point the AI to a well-written job description (like the ones in this guide) and say:
“Write something similar in tone and structure, but for my company.”
Then, instead of accepting the first draft, edit it. Humanize it. Customize it.
AI is your assistant — not your author.
Want a shortcut?
Use the “copy-paste” section coming up next — but remember: the best job posts still require your voice.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Architect Job Description?
✅ Option 1: Culture-First Style (Conversational)
📌 Job Title: Lead Architect – Reimagine City Living with [Your Company Name]
📍 Location: Hybrid in [City]
💼 Full-Time | Civic & Urban Design | $85,000–$110,000/year
👋 Meet Your Future Team
Watch this quick video from our Design Director, Alex, to hear how this role fits into our mission and what we’re excited about:
👉 [Insert Loom Video Link]
🏢 About Us
[Your Company Name] is a mission-driven architecture firm focused on sustainable urban design.
From affordable housing to reimagined community hubs, we create spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired. We’ve completed over 50 projects across 3 states, and now we’re looking for a Lead Architect to join our growing team.
🧠 What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead civic and urban design projects from concept through construction
- Work with stakeholders, planners, and engineers to shape real communities
- Translate needs into purposeful, scalable, human-centered spaces
- Mentor junior staff and shape studio design culture
- Present ideas to clients and city agencies
✅ What We’re Looking For
- 5+ years of experience in architecture (urban/civic preferred)
- Strong design communication skills (Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe, Rhino)
- Licensed (or actively pursuing)
- Passionate about social impact, not just specs
👥 Our Culture
We’re a feedback-friendly studio with weekly design jams, team walks, and shared wins.
We believe that great ideas can come from anywhere — and our best work happens when people feel safe to take creative risks.
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- 100% covered health/dental/vision
- 401(k) with employer match
- $1,200 annual professional development budget
- Studio retreats + wellness stipends
- 20 PTO days + paid holidays
💡 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t a paper-pushing job.
It’s a chance to lead projects that get built, impact real lives, and carry your name. You’ll have the freedom to explore, the support to lead, and the visibility to grow.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate candidates fairly and quickly.
Apply via this link, complete a short skill-based challenge, and we’ll respond within 7 days.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
🧱 Option 2: Structured Format
📌 Job Title: Lead Architect
Company: [Your Company Name]
Location: Hybrid – [City]
Type: Full-Time
Salary: $85,000–$110,000/year
👋 Meet Your Future Team
Watch this quick video from our Design Director, Alex, to hear how this role fits into our mission and what we’re excited about:
👉 [Insert Loom Video Link]
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a collaborative, civic-minded architecture firm specializing in community-driven projects. We focus on public spaces, schools, affordable housing, and adaptive reuse projects that make cities more inclusive and resilient.
Culture
We’re a mission-first studio that values transparency, learning, and purpose.
You’ll join a team that supports one another, celebrates feedback, and believes design can drive social good.
Responsibilities
- Manage architectural design and documentation for civic/urban projects
- Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning, and city regulations
- Collaborate with stakeholders, consultants, and internal teams
- Oversee project timelines, budgets, and technical delivery
- Present to clients and facilitate city review processes
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture
- Licensed Architect or on licensure path
- 5+ years of relevant experience
- Skilled in Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe Suite (Rhino a plus)
- Strong visual and verbal communication skills
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental & vision insurance
- PTO: 20 days/year + 10 paid holidays
- Flexible hybrid schedule
- Team retreats and creative offsites
- Ongoing training + licensing support
Why Join Us?
You’ll lead visible, high-impact projects and have a real voice in studio direction.
We promote from within, reward initiative, and value both design rigor and community empathy.
How to Apply
Please apply through WorkScreen.io using the link below.
We use a short evaluation to understand your skills and fit. We respond to every applicant.
👉 [Insert Application Link]
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
Once your job post is live, the real challenge begins: sorting through applicants, spotting the ones with true potential, and avoiding costly hiring mistakes.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
✅ WorkScreen Helps You:
🧠 Spot Top Talent — Automatically
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
⚡ Save Time with One-Click Skill Tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🛡️ Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
📊 Make Smarter, Data-Driven Hiring Decisions
No more gut feelings or résumé roulette.
WorkScreen gives you a clear, side-by-side view of every candidate’s performance — so you can hire with confidence, not guesswork.
🤝 Give Every Candidate a Fair Experience
By focusing on skills and potential, WorkScreen levels the playing field for underrepresented and emerging talent.
It’s a hiring process that’s fair, fast, and built for teams who value both quality and equity.
Your job description is your first impression. Let WorkScreen help you make the second one even better.
FAQ
When hiring an architect, look for a mix of technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and collaborative communication. Key skills include:
- Proficiency in tools like Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, or SketchUp
- Strong spatial awareness and design thinking
- Knowledge of local building codes, zoning laws, and permitting
- Project management skills (budgeting, timelines, consultant coordination)
- The ability to clearly present ideas to both clients and city officials
- Adaptability and responsiveness to client feedback
Soft skills are just as critical: empathy, attention to detail, and the ability to balance form with function go a long way in successful projects.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), the median annual salary for architects is approximately $89,000, but this varies by region, experience, and firm size:
- Entry-level: $55,000–$70,000
- Mid-level (5–7 years): $75,000–$100,000
- Senior / Licensed Architects: $100,000–$130,000+
- Principals or Partners in large firms can earn $150,000+
Remember: candidates also evaluate your benefits, flexibility, growth opportunities, and studio culture — not just pay.
Resumes can’t fully capture design quality. To evaluate it:
- Request a portfolio that includes not just renderings but also documentation (CD sets, diagrams, etc.)
- Ask them to explain the “why” behind their design choices — what problems did they solve?
- Use WorkScreen’s one-click design challenge to test their real-world thinking (e.g. space planning, zoning analysis, client brief interpretation)
Looking at both aesthetic sense and functional understanding will give you a fuller picture.
That depends on the scope of your projects.
- For permitted projects requiring stamping/sealing, you’ll need someone licensed (or a licensed architect supervising).
- For junior roles, drafting, or design development, someone working toward licensure can be a great long-term investment — especially if your studio supports mentorship and growth.
Just be clear in your job post about your expectations either way.
