Architectural Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL
Architectural engineer jobs in Chicago are concentrated in the Loop, River North, and the West Loop, across commercial construction, infrastructure redevelopment, and building systems engineering. Demand is active, driven by major developments and long-running public projects across the metro. Employers hiring right now include Ware Malcomb, Worldwide Mission Critical, and Arconic. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
Find Architectural Engineer JobsOverview
Open roles19
Top employerWare Malcomb
Work type85% On-site
Top credentialBachelor's
Companies hiring13
Showing 5 of 19+ Architectural Engineer jobs
Architectural Designer - Transit
We won't show you this job again
Added 2w ago
CDM Smith
Architectural Designer - Transit
Chicago, Illinois
Added 2w ago
Architectural Designer II
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Added 2w ago
Ware Malcomb
Architectural Designer II
Chicago, Illinois
Added 2w ago
C
Development Project Manager / Architectural Project Manager
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C
Added 2w ago
Contemporary Concepts, Inc.
Development Project Manager / Architectural Project Manager
Chicago, Illinois
Added 2w ago
R
Business Development Manager - Architectural, Stone, and Building Products
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R
Added 2w ago
Realstone
Business Development Manager - Architectural, Stone, and Building Products
Chicago, Illinois
Added 2w ago
Mid-Level Architectural Designer / Project Architect
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Added 3w ago
Senga Architects Inc.
Mid-Level Architectural Designer / Project Architect
Chicago, Illinois
Added 3w ago
Added 2w ago
Architectural Designer - Transit
CDM Smith·Chicago, Illinois
Job functions:
$87k - $143k/yr
6+ yrs exp.
Bachelor's
Full Time
5,001-10,000 employees
Job Description
CDM Smith is a multi-discipline engineering and architectural firm. Our firm is responsible for large-scale water and wastewater plant design, transit facilities, industrial facilities, office space design, federal facilities, facility planning and condition assessment work. As an Architectural Designer at CDM Smith you will have the opportunity to be a part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team of technical experts working on challenging projects in Environment, Industry, Commercial, Transportation, Federal and Water business portfolios. We are looking for candidates with demonstrated experience in transit facilities.
At CDM Smith, we are invested in your success. We offer flexible work options that allow our employees to meet their needs outside of work.
The Architectural Designer will have the following responsibilities:
At CDM Smith, we are invested in your success. We offer flexible work options that allow our employees to meet their needs outside of work.
The Architectural Designer will have the following responsibilities:
- Plan, program, and formulate building design and prepare design presentation and construction contract documents.
- Coordination of building design and construction contract documents with architectural and multi-discipline engineering staff.
- Mentor and guide junior architectural staff on multi-discipline projects.
- Research and participate in the selection of construction materials, technologies and methodologies for detailing and specifications.
- Compliance with applicable planning, zoning, and building codes and regulations, including coordination with agencies having jurisdiction.
- Collect background project information and documentation including “as-built” data, including field observation as necessary.
- Review technical submittals for projects under construction.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
- 6 years of related experience with a Registered Architect (RA) license. If no RA, then 6 years of experience with 2 years working under an RA or other professional which meets NCARB standards.
- Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a college degree.
- Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Architecture
- Experience in planning, design, and construction oversight of transit facilities served by rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit.
- Experience in multiple project delivery types including design-build, design-bid-build, construction manager-at-risk, etc.
- LEED Green Associate or LEED AP Credential
Amount of Travel Required
5%
Skills and Abilities
- Solid knowledge of technologies and methodologies in the use of construction materials.
- Expert knowledge of Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), preferably AutoCAD and Revit.
- Familiarity with modeling and rendering software programs.
- Expert knowledge of basic business office software (Word, Excel, etc.). Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as “CDM Smith”) reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Recruitment Center Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Recruiting Center Team (RCT) will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.
Pay Range Minimum
$86,507
Pay Range Maximum
$142,730
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Business Unit
TSU
Group
ISO
Assignment Category
Fulltime-Regular
Employment Type
Regular
Visa Sponsorship Available
No - We will not support sponsorship, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
CDM Smith
Architectural Designer - Transit
Chicago, Illinois
Added 2w ago5,001-10,000 employees
Job functions:
$87k - $143k/yr
6+ yrs exp.
Bachelor's
Full Time
Job Description
CDM Smith is a multi-discipline engineering and architectural firm. Our firm is responsible for large-scale water and wastewater plant design, transit facilities, industrial facilities, office space design, federal facilities, facility planning and condition assessment work. As an Architectural Designer at CDM Smith you will have the opportunity to be a part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team of technical experts working on challenging projects in Environment, Industry, Commercial, Transportation, Federal and Water business portfolios. We are looking for candidates with demonstrated experience in transit facilities.
At CDM Smith, we are invested in your success. We offer flexible work options that allow our employees to meet their needs outside of work.
The Architectural Designer will have the following responsibilities:
At CDM Smith, we are invested in your success. We offer flexible work options that allow our employees to meet their needs outside of work.
The Architectural Designer will have the following responsibilities:
- Plan, program, and formulate building design and prepare design presentation and construction contract documents.
- Coordination of building design and construction contract documents with architectural and multi-discipline engineering staff.
- Mentor and guide junior architectural staff on multi-discipline projects.
- Research and participate in the selection of construction materials, technologies and methodologies for detailing and specifications.
- Compliance with applicable planning, zoning, and building codes and regulations, including coordination with agencies having jurisdiction.
- Collect background project information and documentation including “as-built” data, including field observation as necessary.
- Review technical submittals for projects under construction.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
- 6 years of related experience with a Registered Architect (RA) license. If no RA, then 6 years of experience with 2 years working under an RA or other professional which meets NCARB standards.
- Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a college degree.
- Domestic and/or international travel may be required. The frequency of travel is contingent on specific duties, responsibilities, and the essential functions of the position, which may vary depending on workload and project demands.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in Architecture
- Experience in planning, design, and construction oversight of transit facilities served by rail, light rail, and bus rapid transit.
- Experience in multiple project delivery types including design-build, design-bid-build, construction manager-at-risk, etc.
- LEED Green Associate or LEED AP Credential
Amount of Travel Required
5%
Skills and Abilities
- Solid knowledge of technologies and methodologies in the use of construction materials.
- Expert knowledge of Computer Aided Design and Drafting (CADD), preferably AutoCAD and Revit.
- Familiarity with modeling and rendering software programs.
- Expert knowledge of basic business office software (Word, Excel, etc.). Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
EEO Statement
We attract the best people in the industry, supporting their efforts to learn and grow. We strive to create a challenging and progressive work environment. We provide career opportunities that span a variety of disciplines and geographic locations, with projects that our employees plan, design, build and operate as diverse as the needs of our clients. CDM Smith is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, pregnancy related conditions, childbirth and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression), national origin, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, citizenship status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
Background Check and Drug Testing Information
CDM Smith Inc. and its divisions and subsidiaries (hereafter collectively referred to as “CDM Smith”) reserves the right to require background checks including criminal, employment, education, licensure, etc. as well as credit and motor vehicle when applicable for certain positions. In addition, CDM Smith may conduct drug testing for designated positions. Background checks are conducted after an offer of employment has been made in the United States. The timing of when background checks will be conducted on candidates for positions outside the United States will vary based on country statutory law but in no case, will the background check precede an interview. CDM Smith will conduct interviews of qualified individuals prior to requesting a criminal background check, and no job application submitted prior to such interview shall inquire into an applicant's criminal history. If this position is subject to a background check for any convictions related to its responsibilities and requirements, employment will be contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history. Criminal history will not automatically disqualify a candidate. In addition, during employment individuals may be required by CDM Smith or a CDM Smith client to successfully complete additional background checks, including motor vehicle record as well as drug testing.
Massachusetts Applicants
It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Agency Disclaimer
All vendors must have a signed CDM Smith Placement Agreement from the CDM Smith Recruitment Center Manager to receive payment for your placement. Verbal or written commitments from any other member of the CDM Smith staff will not be considered binding terms. All unsolicited resumes sent to CDM Smith and any resume submitted to any employee outside of CDM Smith Recruiting Center Team (RCT) will be considered property of CDM Smith. CDM Smith will not be held liable to pay a placement fee.
Pay Range Minimum
$86,507
Pay Range Maximum
$142,730
Additional Compensation
All bonuses at CDM Smith are discretionary and may or may not apply to this position.
Business Unit
TSU
Group
ISO
Assignment Category
Fulltime-Regular
Employment Type
Regular
Visa Sponsorship Available
No - We will not support sponsorship, i.e. H-1B or TN Visas for this position
See All 19 Architectural Engineer Jobs in Chicago
Find roles in Chicago that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Architectural Engineer JobsArchitectural Engineer Job Market in Chicago
Who's Hiring
- Ware Malcomb3
- Worldwide Mission Critical3
- Arconic2
- Harley Ellis Devereaux2
- Corgan1
Top Industries Hiring
- Consulting & Professional Services5
- Construction & Real Estate4
- Automotive2
- Manufacturing2
- Aerospace & Defense2
Architectural Engineer Jobs in Chicago: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a architectural engineer job in Chicago?
Focus your search on the Loop, River North, and the West Loop, where the heaviest concentration of architecture and engineering firms, commercial developers, and infrastructure consultancies operate. Chicago's construction pipeline, including large mixed-use and transit-oriented developments, means firms with active project backlogs hire more consistently. Candidates who can show experience with building systems integration or sustainable design standards tend to move faster through hiring in this market.
Which companies hire architectural engineers in Chicago?
Companies currently hiring architectural engineers in Chicago include Ware Malcomb, Worldwide Mission Critical, and Arconic, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Chicago's employer mix leans heavily toward large multi-disciplinary engineering consultancies, commercial real estate developers, and public infrastructure agencies with ongoing capital programs.
Are there remote architectural engineer jobs in Chicago?
Yes, though remote work is limited for architectural engineers since the role typically involves site visits, construction review, and hands-on coordination. About 15% of architectural engineer openings tied to Chicago are remote or hybrid as of June 2026, most concentrated in design development, specifications writing, and project coordination phases that can be handled off-site.
How can I get a architectural engineer job in Chicago with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path in Chicago is through mid-size engineering and architecture firms that staff project assistant or junior EIT roles on commercial or institutional projects. Chicago's large stock of university campus expansions, hospital construction, and city infrastructure work creates consistent demand for entry-level support. Internship experience with any Chicago-area firm, even in a related discipline, gives candidates a strong local credibility advantage over outside applicants.
Which industries hire the most architectural engineers in Chicago?
Most architectural engineer openings in Chicago sit in Consulting & Professional Services, Construction & Real Estate, and Automotive, per current listings on Migrate Mate as of June 2026. Chicago's dense commercial real estate market, active public infrastructure investment, and concentration of large institutional clients like hospitals and universities sustain consistent hiring across those sectors.
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