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If you’ve Googled “Architectural Designer job description,” chances are you’ve already seen a hundred articles that all sound the same.
Bullet points. Buzzwords. No personality.
They tell you what the role technically involves—but they don’t show you how to attract a great architectural designer.
Here’s the truth:
Top candidates aren’t scanning job posts looking for vague requirements and corporate jargon.
They’re looking for purpose.
They want to know what kind of projects they’ll work on, who they’ll be collaborating with, and whether your company’s vision aligns with theirs.
But most job descriptions?
They don’t inspire.
They don’t connect.
And they certainly don’t attract thoughtful, design-driven people.
If you’re serious about hiring someone who can bring creative vision, attention to detail, and technical expertise to your projects—you need more than a checklist.
You need a job post that resonates.
In this article, we’ll show you exactly how to write one.
Before we get into examples, if you haven’t already, check out 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 through everything you need to know—from structure to tone to candidate psychology.
Ready to learn how to write a compelling, human-first job description for an Architectural Designer?
Let’s break it down.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What Does An Architectural Designer Actually Do
An architectural designer helps turn ideas into buildings.
They take client needs and bring them to life through sketches, 3D models, and detailed plans—making sure every line, material, and measurement works in the real world. They’re not just artists or drafters—they’re problem-solvers who balance creativity, function, and code compliance all at once.
In many firms, they collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to shape everything from residential homes to commercial spaces. Their job is part creative vision, part technical execution—and part coordination with everyone else on the project.
That’s why hiring the right person for this role isn’t just about software skills.
You want someone who can:
- Think in systems and space
- Communicate clearly with clients and teammates
- Stay organized under pressure
- And bring your firm’s projects to life with care, style, and precision
If you hire well here, your clients will love the results—and your entire project team will run smoother.
Two Great Architectural Designer Job Description Templates
Option 1 — Job Description For Experienced Architectural Designer
📌 Job Title: Architectural Designer for Cedar & Clay Residential Design (Austin, TX)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (3 days in-studio, 2 remote)
💰 Salary: $70,000 – $85,000 (DOE)
🏢 Location: Austin, Texas
🎥 60-Second Hello From Our Creative Director
(Loom / YouTube link goes here)
Who We Are
Cedar & Clay is a 12-person residential architecture studio known for blending Texas Hill Country warmth with modern sustainability. Since 2014 we’ve designed more than 150 custom homes—several featured in Dwell and Texas Architect. Collaboration, client care, and carbon-smart materials are our signature.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Lead design development from concept to 100% construction documents in Revit
- Coordinate with structural engineers, energy consultants, and municipal reviewers
- Host client workshops; translate feedback into design iterations
- Champion sustainability targets (≤ 45 kBTU/sf-yr) on every project
- Mentor junior designers on detailing and code compliance
What We’re Looking For
- 3 + years’ residential design experience
- Strong Revit & SketchUp workflow; Adobe CC for presentations
- Portfolio that shows both creativity and constructability
- Clear communicator who thrives in a small-team setting
- B.Arch or M.Arch (licensure a plus)
Perks & Benefits
- 100 % employer-paid health, dental, and vision
- 15 vacation days + 5 mental-wellness days + paid volunteer day
- $2,000 annual education stipend (AIA, Passive House, etc.)
- Profit-share bonus paid each April
- Dog-friendly studio & free downtown parking
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
At Cedar & Clay you’ll move from drafting to owning projects quickly, work directly with decision-makers, and see your designs built within 12–18 months—no endless red tape. If you crave creative freedom plus real environmental impact, you’ll feel right at home.
How to Apply
We hire through WorkScreen.io so every candidate is evaluated on skill, not résumé buzzwords. Click the link below, complete a short design exercise, and we’ll update you at every step. (Insert WorkScreen link)
✅ Option 2 — Job Description For Entry-Level Architectural Designer
📌 Job Title: Junior Architectural Designer at BrightArc Architecture (Remote • Chicago HQ)
💼 Type: Full-Time | Entry-Level
💰 Salary: $48,000 – $55,000
🏢 Location: Remote (U.S.) or in-person at our West Loop studio, Chicago
🎥 Meet the Founder in 90 Seconds
(Loom / YouTube link goes here)
About BrightArc
Founded in 2018, BrightArc is a mission-driven firm designing community centers, micro-housing, and adaptive-reuse projects across the Midwest. We’re 20 architects, designers, and planners who believe great architecture should serve people first and look beautiful second. Our culture is mentor-heavy and bureaucracy-light.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Draft floor plans & 3D massing models alongside project leads
- Build presentation decks and mood boards for client charrettes
- Assist with code checks and zoning research
- Sit in on consultant calls; capture and track changes
- Learn the ropes of construction-administration site visits
What We’re Looking For
- B.Arch, M.Arch in progress, or equivalent design degree
- Coursework or internship experience in Revit or Rhino (school projects count!)
- Curiosity, accountability, and a growth mindset over perfect credentials
- Portfolio link (draft work is fine—show us how you think)
- Nice-to-haves: Enscape rendering chops, community-design passion
Perks & Benefits
- Health, dental, vision + HSA match
- 2 weeks PTO, 10 paid holidays, and office closed last week of December
- $1,500 annual learning budget + paid AXP hours
- Remote-friendly tech stipend ($85/mo)
- Quarterly in-person “Design Jams” in Chicago (travel covered)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
BrightArc is built for builders-in-training. You’ll get hands-on experience from day one, paired with senior mentorship that accelerates your path to licensure. If you want to see real-world impact fast—while working in a purpose-driven studio—you’ll thrive here.
How to Apply
Click our WorkScreen.io link, complete a short design challenge (takes ~45 min), and we’ll respond within 7 days. No cover letter required—let your ideas do the talking. (Insert WorkScreen link)
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard. 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.
Breakdown of Why These Architectural Designer Job Posts Work
Let’s break down what makes these job descriptions actually work—especially when compared to the lifeless, checkbox-style posts you usually see.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Targeted
Instead of just “Architectural Designer,” we used:
- “Architectural Designer for Cedar & Clay Residential Design (Austin, TX)”
- “Junior Architectural Designer at BrightArc Architecture (Remote • Chicago HQ)”
These titles do 3 things instantly:
- Tell the candidate what the role is
- Tell them where it’s based
- Tell them who it’s with
That clarity filters in the right applicants while deterring unqualified ones.
✅ 2. Each Post Starts with a Video Introduction
This small addition builds trust fast. Whether it’s the founder, hiring manager, or creative director, a 60–90 second video:
- Humanizes your brand
- Shows candidates there are real people behind the company
- Makes you stand out in a sea of text-only listings
Candidates apply to people—not logos.
✅ 3. The Company Description Feels Real and Relatable
Instead of a corporate blurb or mission statement, we wrote each “About Us” section like a conversation:
- What kind of firm is this?
- What kind of work do they do?
- What are they known for?
This gives candidates the context they need to imagine themselves at your company—and builds a sense of emotional alignment.
✅ 4. Responsibilities Aren’t Just Tasks—They Show Impact
Rather than listing tasks like a checklist, each responsibility answers:
- “What will I actually be doing?”
- “How does my work contribute to something meaningful?”
This helps the role feel more purposeful and avoids sounding like a job description from 1999.
✅ 5. Perks & Benefits Are Transparent and Specific
We didn’t hide compensation or bury benefits in vague terms like “competitive pay” or “great culture.” Instead, we spelled out:
- Salary range
- PTO policy
- Health & wellness perks
- Training/education stipends
- Flexibility options
This builds trust and goodwill with candidates before they even apply.
✅ 6. The Tone Is Warm, Human, and Direct
Notice how the language avoids corporate speak. No “synergy.” No “fast-paced environment.”
Just honest, motivating, human-first language that actually sounds like something a hiring manager would say out loud.
That tone is especially important when hiring creative thinkers like architectural designers, who care deeply about vision and purpose.
✅ 7. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Clear
We included:
- A timeline (“we’ll respond within 7 days”)
- A short skill-based evaluation via WorkScreen
- A clear CTA without busywork like cover letters
This communicates to candidates: “We value your time, and we’ve put thought into how we hire.”
Example of a Bad Architectural Designer Job Description (And Why It Fails)
Let’s take a look at what a generic, outdated job description looks like—and break down why it completely fails to attract top talent.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
📌 Job Title: Architectural Designer
🏢 Company: ABC Architecture Firm
💼 Job Type: Full-Time
📍 Location: Not specified
🗓️ Deadline: Rolling
Job Summary
ABC Architecture Firm is seeking an Architectural Designer to join our growing team. The candidate will be responsible for drafting, creating architectural plans, and coordinating with various departments to ensure project deadlines are met.
Key Responsibilities
- Prepare drawings and architectural documentation
- Coordinate with clients and internal stakeholders
- Ensure compliance with building codes and regulations
- Support project managers as needed
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or related field
- 2–4 years of experience
- Knowledge of AutoCAD and other design software
- Excellent time management and organizational skills
How to Apply
Please send your resume and cover letter to hr@abcarchitecture.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚨 Why This Job Post Falls Flat
❌ 1. The Job Title Is Vague
“Architectural Designer” doesn’t tell candidates anything about the company, project type, or experience level. It could be anything—from residential drafting to large-scale urban planning.
❌ 2. The Company Has No Personality
What does ABC Architecture Firm actually do? Who do they design for? What kinds of projects? There’s no mission, no culture, and no sense of purpose.
❌ 3. There’s No Salary or Benefits Info
Leaving out compensation details signals a lack of transparency—and research shows it turns away serious, experienced applicants who want to know if the role is worth their time.
❌ 4. The Responsibilities Are Generic
Every bullet point could apply to any architecture job at any firm. There’s no context about how this role fits into the team, what kind of work they’ll focus on, or what success looks like.
❌ 5. No Sense of Culture or Team Dynamics
There’s zero insight into how the team works, what values they care about, or what kind of personality might thrive there. That’s a huge missed opportunity to build emotional connection.
❌ 6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is cold and outdated. It makes the candidate feel disposable before they’ve even applied.
❌ 7. No Call to Action—Just a Resume Dump
There’s no encouragement, no invitation, and no clarity about what happens next. It’s just: “Email your resume.” That’s not a hiring process—it’s a shrug.
If your job post looks anything like this, don’t panic—but definitely don’t copy-paste it either. Let’s keep going and look at how to level up your job post with small but powerful changes.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Job Post Stand Out
Sometimes it’s the small details that make your job description rise above the noise. Once you’ve nailed the basics—clear title, great intro, honest responsibilities—use these extra touches to build trust, increase applications, and attract the right kind of candidate.
🛡️ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
This simple message builds instant trust, especially in a world where job scams are rising. Here’s an example you can paste at the bottom of your post:
Important Notice:
We take the security and privacy of all job applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any stage of the hiring process.
🏖️ 2. Mention Leave Days, Flex Time, or Mental Health Breaks
Candidates—especially in design roles—want to know you care about work-life balance. Adding this small line can make a big difference:
“Enjoy 15 PTO days, 5 mental wellness days, and a company-wide winter break to recharge and come back inspired.”
🚀 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
This signals that your firm invests in talent, not just outputs. For example:
“We offer a $2,000 annual learning budget for AIA courses, Passive House certifications, and software training—because your growth matters.”
🎥 4. Add a Loom or Video Message from the Hiring Manager
We’ve already included this in your templates—but in case you skipped it, don’t underestimate how powerful this is. A short 60–90 second video can:
- Showcase your firm’s personality
- Humanize the hiring process
- Dramatically increase trust and conversion rates
If you don’t have a Loom yet, record a simple one explaining who you are, what the team’s like, and what kind of person would thrive in the role.
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
📌 Pro Tip: Make These Elements Easy to Spot
Use headers, bullet points, and whitespace. If a designer is reading your post, they’ll notice good formatting. If your layout is cluttered, it communicates disorganization before you even speak.
These details may feel small—but they can be the difference between a passive skim and an excited applicant who says: “This team actually gets it.”
A Word of Caution About Using AI to Write Job Posts
Let’s be honest—AI is everywhere right now. Some ATS platforms (like Manatal or Workable) even offer “one-click” AI job post generators.
And sure, it sounds convenient.
Click a button. Fill in a title. Boom—your job post writes itself.
But here’s the problem:
AI can’t write a great job post without you.
🤖 Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you let AI write your job post from scratch without real input, you’ll end up with:
- Generic content that sounds like every other listing online
- Buzzwords and bland phrasing that fail to connect
- A post that attracts low-effort, unqualified applicants
- A weak first impression of your company
Remember: your job post is marketing. It’s the first touchpoint a potential team member has with your firm. If it feels templated or lifeless, great candidates will scroll right past it.
✅ The Smarter Way to Use AI
You can use AI—but use it like a writing assistant, not an autopilot.
Here’s how to do it right:
Step 1: Start with real, human input.
Gather these ingredients first:
- What your company actually does
- What the role entails (with context)
- The kind of person who thrives in your culture
- Salary, benefits, and growth opportunities
- Your tone: formal, casual, playful, mission-driven?
Step 2: Prompt AI with specificity.
Here’s an example of a smart prompt you could use:
“Write a job description for BrightArc Architecture. We’re hiring a Junior Architectural Designer to support our affordable housing and community-center projects. Our culture is collaborative, purpose-driven, and design-focused. We want someone curious, growth-oriented, and community-minded. Salary range is $48K–$55K. We offer paid AXP hours, $1,500 training stipend, and remote flexibility. Here’s our hiring process: 45-minute design task, one remote interview, and transparent communication throughout.Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes] ”
Step 3: Use AI to refine—not replace—your voice.
Let AI polish your tone, organize your ideas, or improve clarity.
But make sure the heart of the job post still sounds like you. Real. Thoughtful. Intentional.
🧠 The Bottom Line
AI is a helpful tool—but it can’t replace authenticity.
If your job post reads like it was written by ChatGPT… top candidates will notice.
Invest a little time up front to write something real—and you’ll attract people who are just as real, driven, and design-focused as your firm needs
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
📌 Job Title: Architectural Designer at [Your Company Name]
💼 Type: Full-Time | [Hybrid / Remote / On-site]
💰 Salary Range: [Insert Range]
📍 Location: [City, State or Remote]
🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager
(Insert Loom or YouTube link here)
About Us
We’re [Company Name]—a team of [#] architects and designers passionate about [insert mission or design focus—e.g., sustainable homes, adaptive reuse, community-centered design]. We believe great architecture happens when creativity, care, and collaboration come together.
We’ve designed [insert project type or clients—e.g., over 40 single-family homes, co-working spaces, retail pop-ups], and now we’re looking for another talented designer to help bring even more ideas to life.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Create conceptual designs and develop detailed drawings
- Collaborate with architects, clients, and consultants
- Ensure design intent is maintained from sketch to site
- Present ideas clearly in both team and client settings
- Contribute to the evolution of our firm’s design standards
What We’re Looking For
- [X]+ years of design experience
- Proficiency in [Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, etc.]
- Portfolio that shows both creativity and technical skill
- Someone who’s thoughtful, proactive, and easy to work with
- Degree in Architecture or related field (license is a plus)
Perks & Benefits
- [List clear perks: PTO, holidays, insurance, remote days, stipends, etc.]
- [Example: $2,000 annual learning budget]
- [Example: Paid time off + firm-wide winter break]
Why You’ll Love Working Here
We’re a studio that values people as much as projects. You’ll get to lead, learn, and grow—not just sit in the corner drafting details no one explains. If you’re looking for a place where your ideas matter and your growth is supported, we think you’ll like it here.
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate all candidates fairly—based on real skills, not just resumes.
Click the link below, complete a short design evaluation, and we’ll keep you updated every step of the way.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
🗂️ Option 2: Structured Responsibilities + Requirements Format
📌 Job Title: Architectural Designer
🏢 Company: [Your Company Name]
📍 Location: [City, State or Remote]
💰 Salary: [Insert Salary or Range]
💼 Type: Full-Time
🎥 Meet the Hiring Manager
(Insert Loom or YouTube link here)
Job Summary
[Your Company Name] is hiring an Architectural Designer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate will support design development, produce technical documentation, and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders across residential, commercial, or public space projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Create design presentations and architectural plans
- Prepare construction documents and coordinate revisions
- Conduct research on materials, zoning codes, and regulations
- Participate in client meetings and design reviews
- Collaborate with consultants and contractors during construction
Requirements
- Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture or a related field
- [X]+ years of professional design experience
- Proficiency in [Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite]
- Portfolio demonstrating both design and technical skills
- Excellent verbal and visual communication skills
Perks & Benefits
- [Health, dental, vision, PTO, holidays, learning budget, etc.]
- [Remote flexibility or in-office perks]
- [Optional: Mentorship, licensure support, paid AXP hours]
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to streamline the hiring process.
Complete a quick evaluation using the link below, and we’ll contact you with next steps.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase of Hiring
Writing a strong, human-first job post is the first step.
But what happens after candidates start applying?
If you’re still relying on resume scans and gut feeling—you’re doing extra work, and still risking the wrong hire.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
✅ WorkScreen helps you:
1. Spot top candidates faster—without guesswork
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard. No more wasting time on resumes that look good but don’t perform.
2. Run one-click skill tests for real-world roles
You can test applicants on things that actually matter—like design accuracy, Revit proficiency, or problem-solving ability. That means you’re hiring based on skill, not fluff.
3. Filter out low-effort, AI-generated applications
Many candidates today use AI tools to apply for hundreds of roles with zero customization. WorkScreen helps you separate real, thoughtful applicants from spammy ones—fast.
🎯 The Bottom Line?
If you want to spend less time reviewing résumés and more time interviewing great people…
If you’re tired of being burned by impressive applications that don’t deliver results…
And if you believe hiring should be faster, smarter, and fair…
Then give WorkScreen.io a try. 👉 Create your job post on WorkScreen.io Then sit back while we help you identify your top candidates—based on skill, not guesswork.
FAQ
An architect is a licensed professional who has completed the required education, internship hours, and passed the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). They can legally sign off on drawings, submit plans to local authorities, and take legal responsibility for building projects.
An architectural designer, on the other hand, may perform many of the same design and drafting duties, but they are not yet licensed. They often work under a licensed architect, contributing to the creative and technical aspects of a project, but they cannot submit plans for permits on their own.
Think of the architectural designer as someone on the path to becoming an architect—or someone who specializes in design work without pursuing licensure.
Here’s a blend of technical, creative, and interpersonal skills that matter most:
- Proficiency in design tools (e.g., Revit, SketchUp, Rhino, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite)
- Strong portfolio that shows design thinking and technical accuracy
- Understanding of building codes, zoning laws, and materials
- Clear communication skills for working with clients and consultants
- Attention to detail and the ability to balance design with real-world constraints
- Team collaboration—they’ll often work closely with engineers, project managers, and other architects
You can also assess soft skills like curiosity, accountability, and resilience during interviews or through skill-based hiring platforms like WorkScreen.io.
Salaries vary by location, experience, and firm type. Here’s a rough breakdown (U.S. averages):
- Entry-level (0–2 years): $48,000–$60,000
- Mid-level (3–5 years): $65,000–$80,000
- Senior-level (6+ years): $80,000–$95,000+
In cities like New York, San Francisco, or Austin, salaries can be 10–20% higher.
Bonus structures, benefits, and project types also influence compensation.
Yes—especially for firms that are design-heavy and already use cloud-based collaboration tools like BIM 360, Miro, or Slack. Remote work is most feasible for:
- Concept development
- Drafting and rendering
- Client presentations
However, some stages like site visits or city plan submissions may still require in-person presence depending on the role and region.
