Project Architect Jobs in Chicago, IL

Job Description:

General Summary:

The Project Architect directs and is responsible for the development of the design work; leads in the production of technical drawings and specifications; coordinates the related work of the other disciplines; and assumes in-house construction administration duties on projects of moderate to large size and complexity. This role focuses on mission critical facilities, including hyperscale and enterprise, requiring intensive coordination with MEP and fast track delivery.

Essential Job Functions:

• Lead architectural scope for hyperscale and enterprise data center projects and other mission critical facilities.

• Coordinate architectural requirements for critical spaces including data halls, electrical rooms, UPS/battery rooms, generator buildings/yards, MEP galleries, MMR/telecom spaces, security/operations and service/loading areas.

• Drive intense interdisciplinary coordination with all disciplines and key consultants to resolve equipment clearance, access/maintenance pathways, envelope interfaces and constructability constraints.

• Manage compliance to owner standards / prototype requirements common to hyperscale and enterprise clients; document deviations and coordinate approvals as required.

• Support fast-track delivery, including early release packages and phased permitting/issuances.

• Participate and lead model-based review and coordination efforts with the BIM/VDC team.

• 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.

Employment Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Architectural Engineering; Master’s preferred.
• NCARB certificate required.
• LEED Certification preferred.
• WELL Building Certification preferred.
• Registered Architect required.

Experience:

• 15+ years related architecture experience.
• 3-5+ years in data centers and/or mission critical facilities is preferred.
• Experience delivering hyperscale and/or enterprise data centers (preferred) or comparable mission critical environments.
• Experience with fast-track delivery, phased releases , and multi-package procurement strategies.
• Experience working with strict client/owner standards , prototype templates, and programmatic design governance.

Skills/Competencies:

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office and Microsoft Teams. Familiar with Autodesk File Management System.
• Familiar with point cloud software.
• Excellent written and verbal communication
• Strong attention to detail

Benefits:

At Ghafari, we offer a robust benefits package designed to support your overall wellbeing. In addition to a competitive salary, eligible employees receive Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, Short-Term & Long-Term Disability, 401(k) match, Flexible Spending Accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Teladoc, Employee Assistance Program, Professional License Reimbursement, Educational Assistance, Voluntary Pet Insurance, Parental Leave, Paid Time Off, and 8 Paid Holidays. The pay range for this position is $90,000 to $135,000. Individual pay is based on factors such as relevant experience, job-related skills, education, and training.

About Us

At Ghafari Associates, we don’t just design buildings—we help shape the future of the industries we serve. As a global leader in architecture, engineering, and consulting, we partner with clients to deliver forward-thinking solutions that transform how people work, manufacture, and connect.

Our strength lies in our people. We bring together curious minds, technical experts, and creative problem-solvers who thrive on collaboration and innovation. Whether supporting major industrial programs or advancing federal and commercial projects, our teams are empowered to make a meaningful impact—both for our clients and within our communities.

We are committed to investing in our employees’ financial, physical, and emotional well-being, as well as their professional growth. Through robust training, licensure support, internships, mentorships, and tuition reimbursement, we provide the resources our people need to build rewarding careers while making a lasting difference in the communities we are proud to call home.

Ghafari Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local laws. As a federal contractor, Ghafari Associates maintains affirmative action programs for individuals with disabilities and protected veterans in accordance with applicable laws.

Pay Transparency

Ghafari Associates will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with the contractor’s legal duty to furnish information.

Accommodation

Ghafari Associates is also committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities in the employment application process. If you need an accommodation due to a disability to use our online system to apply for a position, you may also apply for positions in the following ways:

• By fax at: 313.436.8624, Attn: Human Resources
• By mail at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126, Attn: Human Resources
• In person at: 17101 Michigan Ave., Dearborn, MI 48126
• By email at: hr@ghafari.com

If there are any questions about the accommodations offered above, please contact 313.441.3000 for assistance.