Full-Time

Project Architect

Updated on 7/21/2026

Ghafari Associates

Ghafari Associates

501-1,000 employees

Integrated architecture, engineering, and operations firm

Compensation Overview

$90k - $135k/yr

Chicago, IL, USA

Hybrid

Hybrid role in Chicago, IL; some on-site days may be required.

Category
Architecture & Civil Engineering (2)
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Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Architectural Engineering
  • NCARB certificate required
  • Registered Architect required
  • 15+ years related architecture experience
Responsibilities
  • Ability to manage moderate to large, complex projects.
  • Provide mentorship and embrace opportunities for learning with less experienced staff throughout the course of the project.
  • Establish the factual parameters of the design work (e.g., code, site restrictions, budget and schedule restraints); identify building systems options and related performance and cost criteria; and assist in the presentation of design documents.
  • Formulate the project work plan based on an approved scope of work. Plan mini-sheet work plans for assigned projects. Lead the execution of the various tasks identified therein.
  • Assume primary responsibility for the daily activities of the architectural project team and the progress of the work and for the technical quality of the Construction Documents (drawings and specifications).
  • Accurately produces schematic design, design development and construction documents.
  • Proficient at architectural graphic standards and construction drawing set organization and development.
  • Assist the Project Manager in adhering to the project schedule and budget identifying changes to the scope of the work, and related repercussions on project schedule and budget. Provide resource/budget forecasting upon request.
  • Advise the Manager of Architecture in the staffing requirements for projects.
  • Initiate and orchestrate the work of the entire project team (the various engineering and interiors disciplines, and other consultants), and facilitate the timely exchange of information between all project team members; assume responsibility for the coordination of all disciplines, documents, and for insuring that quality control procedures are enforced.
  • Responsible for the management of the production of construction documents.
  • Prepare written portion of addenda and bulletins relating to architectural work.
  • Perform all in-house construction administration duties: respond to RFI’s, review and approve shop drawings, issue bulletins, etc.; provide field-representation services (at the request of the Project Manager or when deemed critical).
  • Possess/demonstrates thorough knowledge of company standards. Help maintain and improve office architectural standards, details and production tools.
  • Familiar with Revit model creation in accordance with company standards.
  • Familiar with Revit project set-up and workset/model management in accordance with company standards.
  • Familiar with laser scanning and point clouds.
  • Perform related duties as assigned.
Desired Qualifications
  • Master’s degree preferred in Architecture or Architectural Engineering
  • LEED Certification preferred
  • WELL Building Certification preferred

Ghafari Associates provides integrated design and engineering services for built environments. It coordinates architecture, interior design, civil and structural engineering, MEP, ICT and security, and operations and systems engineering to align design with building performance and people. The firm serves automotive, aviation, corporate, education, government, healthcare, and manufacturing sectors with a global network of offices. Its goal is to deliver end-to-end projects that optimize building performance and user experience by combining design, engineering, and operational expertise across disciplines.

Company Size

501-1,000

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Dearborn, Michigan

Founded

1982

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Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • The BBG&S deal strengthens delivery capacity across Alabama and the Southeast.
  • Ghafari’s fifteen-office platform supports cross-selling into aviation, healthcare, and industrial clients.
  • Recent acquisitions broaden technical capabilities and improve geographic coverage for larger projects.

What critics are saying

  • Integrating BBG&S risks culture clashes, retention losses, and delivery disruptions.
  • Acquisition-driven expansion can strain execution if Birmingham and Grand Rapids teams do not standardize quickly.
  • Broader service lines increase dependence on consistent utilization across offices and disciplines.

What makes Ghafari Associates unique

  • Ghafari combines architecture, engineering, process design, consulting, and construction services.
  • The BBG&S acquisition adds Birmingham mechanical engineering depth and local market presence.
  • Concept Design expanded Ghafari’s Western Michigan footprint and international service reach.

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Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Paid Time Off

Flexible Spending Accounts

Health Savings Accounts

Parental Leave

Paid Holidays

Hybrid Work Options

Remote Work Options

Wellness Program

Mental Health Support

Gym Membership

Phone/Internet Stipend

Home Office Stipend

Conference Attendance Budget

Professional Development Budget

Family Planning Benefits

Fertility Treatment Support

Stock Options

Company Equity

Paid Vacation

Paid Sick Leave

Adoption Assistance

Employee Referral Bonus

Tuition Reimbursement

Professional Certification Support

Education Allowance

Mentorship Program

Relocation Assistance

Employee Discounts

Meal Benefits

Commuter Benefits

Pet Insurance

Legal Services

Company News

Ghafari
Sep 2nd, 2025
Ghafari Honored as a "Best and Brightest Company to Work For" in Chicago, Detroit + West Michigan

Ghafari Associates, LLC is thrilled to announce that Ghafari has been named a "Best and Brightest Company to Work For" in Chicago, Metro Detroit, and West Michigan!

Ghafari
Jul 11th, 2025
Ghafari Celebrates Another Year as ENR's #1 U.S. Automotive Facilities Designer

Ghafari is thrilled to announce that Ghafari Associates, LLC has been named the #1 U.S. automotive facility designer for 2025 by Engineering News-Record!

Ghafari
Apr 28th, 2025
News | April 28, 2025

Ghafari Associates, LLC launched the Ghafari Scholars Program in 2023, which provides a scholarship and cooperative work experience to students enrolled at the University's College of Engineering & Science.

Ghafari
Nov 11th, 2024
More News + Insights

Ghafari Associates, LLC received the Elite Award for Communication and Shared Vision.

DBusiness Magazine
Jul 24th, 2024
Ghafari Promotes Barry and Pettit to Leaders of U.S. Architecture/Engineering Practice

Barry joined the Ghafari team in 2013 as a project architect, moving into the role of manager of architecture in 2018, and later, director of architecture at the firm's Dearborn headquarters.