Design Professional III

Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA) is a Detroit-based, architecture and interior design firm dedicated to creating spaces that honor history, strengthen communities, and reflect the people who use them. Our work spans cultural, civic, educational, and commercial projects, with a strong focus on collaboration, equity, and design excellence.

About the Role

The Design Professional III is a senior architectural team member responsible for contributing to the design and technical development of projects through the construction document phase. Working closely with Project Managers, Project Architects, and firm leadership, this role helps translate project design intent into coordinated and buildable solutions. The Design Professional III plays a key role in organizing and producing design documentation, coordinating with consultants, and guiding junior staff members. This position requires strong technical knowledge, design problem-solving ability, and the capacity to manage multiple project responsibilities with minimal supervision.

What You'll Do

• Design Development & Construction Documentation

• Collaborate with project architects and project managers to execute projects through the construction document phase

• Evaluate design objectives and identify efficient and effective design solutions for project requirements

• Plan, organize, and manage the development, production, and updating of design documentation throughout all project phases

• Coordinate building design and assist in developing solutions to design challenges in collaboration with project leadership

• Ensure design documentation aligns with project goals, applicable codes, and firm standards

• Review architectural documents as part of HAA's quality control process

• Project Coordination

• In consultation with the Project Manager, assist in establishing project man-hours, design phase budgets, and project timelines

• Coordinate work assignments and support junior staff team members to ensure project deliverables are met

• Demonstrate proficiency in zoning and regulatory requirements, including interpretation and application to project design

• Review and provide direction to junior staff on zoning analysis, code compliance, and regulatory coordination

• Evaluate and apply applicable local, state, and federal building codes and regulations to inform design decisions

• Oversee coordination of consultant work, including civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical systems, to support integrated design solutions

• Guide junior staff in the research, evaluation, and coordination of building systems and utility requirements

• Participate in internal and external design meetings with clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies

• Prepare and distribute meeting notes and documentation following project meetings

• Coordinate with civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical consultants to support integrated design solutions

• Team Collaboration & Leadership

• Work independently with minimal direction while collaborating closely with multidisciplinary project teams

• Provide guidance, training, and support to junior design staff when assigned

• Contribute to the development of HAA's internal design standards, reference materials, and best practices

• Business Development Support

• Contribute to the preparation of proposals, responses to RFQs, and marketing materials when requested

• Support project teams with design graphics and presentation materials as needed

What You'll Bring

• Strong organizational, communication, and graphic presentation skills
• Proficiency in Revit (ability to initiate, develop, and produce BIM models) and Microsoft Office applications; Knowledge of AutoCAD is a plus.
• Proficiency in computer-assisted design software such as Adobe Creative Suite
• Experience with SketchUp, Rhino, and Lumion preferred
• Knowledge of construction detailing and building systems
• Ability to interpret drawings, specifications, codes, standards, and regulatory requirements
• Working knowledge of contract documents and architectural specifications
• Knowledge of sustainable design practices and building materials
• Knowledge of construction methods and the relative value and use of building materials
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local building codes and zoning ordinances
• Understanding of civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical systems as they relate to building design and construction costs
• Ability to analyze and interpret project financial data
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment while meeting project deadlines
• Detail-oriented with strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills
• Physical ability to safely visit and work in construction environments when required

Education & Experience

• Professional degree in Architecture (Master of Architecture) from a program accredited by NAAB/recognized by NCARB
• Minimum of seven (7) years of professional experience following graduation
• Demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities associated with a Design Professional III role
• Previous experience supervising or mentoring junior staff preferred
• Management and organizational experience preferred

What You'll Earn

Benefits & Perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance and short-term disability coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off and firm holidays

Hybrid work schedule in accordance with firm policy

Equal Opportunity Employer

Hamilton Anderson Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.