Architectural Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architectural Design Consultant

Company: IPS-Integrated Project Services

Location: Monroeville, Pennsylvania, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Architectural Design & Consulting

Date Posted: April 22, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and development of architectural projects from concept through completion, ensuring adherence to client requirements and regulatory standards.

• Collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary studio environment, coordinating with architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical engineering teams to deliver integrated project solutions.

• Utilize advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to create detailed construction documents, specifications, and material take-offs.

• Apply in-depth knowledge of construction materials, building codes, ADA accessibility requirements, and other regulatory standards to ensure project compliance and functionality.

• Contribute to the growth of a national, multi-disciplined consulting firm by providing expert client-focused services across diverse market sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role focuses on the practical application of architectural design principles within a consulting engineering firm. The emphasis on "seeing project throughout all phases" and "coordinating design criteria with other disciplines" highlights a need for strong project management and interdisciplinary communication skills. The "Architectural Design Consultant" title suggests a role that bridges technical design execution with client advisory services.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop comprehensive architectural designs, including conceptualization, schematic design, design development, and construction document preparation, utilizing BIM software.

• Coordinate architectural design efforts with other engineering disciplines (structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical) to ensure seamless integration and resolve interdisciplinary conflicts.

• Conduct thorough reviews of site elements and building systems to identify potential issues and develop effective solutions.

• Prepare detailed material take-offs and assist in the development of construction specifications and bid packages.

• Ensure all architectural designs comply with current building codes, ADA accessibility standards, and other relevant local, state, and federal regulations.

• Perform site assessments, facility condition evaluations, and hazardous material analyses as required.

• Write meeting minutes, prepare proposal sections, and contribute to client communication to support project execution and business development.

• Provide construction administration services, including site visits, RFI responses, and submittal reviews.

• Read and interpret existing construction drawings, preparing accurate detailed existing drawings where necessary.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities listed cover the full project lifecycle from initial design through construction administration. The mention of "property or facility condition assessments" and "hazardous material analysis" suggests that the role may also involve pre-design investigation and due diligence services, expanding beyond traditional architectural design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Architectural Engineering is preferred.

Experience:

• 10+ years of progressive design experience on architectural projects.

• Proven experience in developing construction documents and specifications.

• Experience in providing construction administration services.

• Demonstrated ability to evaluate and resolve complex design problems by synthesizing information from multiple sources and coordinating with various disciplines.

• Experience with construction materials, building codes, and regulatory standards.

• Background in ADA accessibility requirements is essential.

• Experience performing property or facility condition assessments is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Autodesk Revit for Building Information Modeling (BIM).

• Proficiency in AutoCAD for architectural drafting.

• Strong command of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Deep understanding of construction materials, building codes, and regulatory compliance.

• Expertise in ADA accessibility requirements and their integration into design.

• Ability to develop accurate material take-offs.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills, including proposal writing and meeting minute preparation.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience using Navisworks for model coordination and clash detection.

• Proficiency with Bluebeam Revu for document management and collaboration.

• Experience in hazardous material analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on BIM software (Revit, AutoCAD) and supplementary tools (Navisworks, Bluebeam) indicates a modern, technology-driven design environment. The requirement for 10+ years of experience, coupled with the preference for licensure, positions this as a senior or lead designer role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of architectural projects demonstrating proficiency in design, detailing, and problem-solving across various project phases.

• Include examples of construction documents and specifications prepared using BIM software (Revit, AutoCAD).

• Present case studies that highlight coordination with multidisciplinary engineering teams and the successful resolution of design challenges.

• Demonstrate understanding and application of building codes, ADA accessibility standards, and material selection principles.

Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design for architectural projects, from initial concept to final construction documents.

• Documentation illustrating the process of coordinating design criteria across architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical disciplines.

• Evidence of processes for reviewing and incorporating building codes, ADA requirements, and regulatory standards into design deliverables.

• Documentation of processes for material take-off generation and specification writing.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior architectural role, a portfolio is critical. It should not only display visual design work but also the candidate's ability to manage complex documentation processes, coordinate with other disciplines, and ensure regulatory compliance. Highlighting experience with specific project delivery methods like design/bid/build and design/build would be beneficial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The estimated salary range for an Architectural Design Consultant with 10+ years of experience in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, is between $90,000 and $120,000 annually. This range is based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, considering the required experience level, technical skills, and the firm's reputation as a Top 500 Design Firm.

Benefits:

• Matching 401(k)

• Profit sharing

• Performance bonus

• Company stock options

• Comprehensive Medical Insurance

• Dental Insurance

• Vision Insurance

• Short-term Disability coverage

• Long-term Disability coverage

• Tuition Assistance for professional development

• Professional Development opportunities

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are expected to be around 40 hours per week.

• Some travel may be required, estimated at under 10%, for site visits, client meetings, or project coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on general industry data for senior architectural roles in a mid-sized US city. The specific compensation package may vary based on the candidate's exact qualifications, interview performance, and negotiation. The benefits package is extensive and reflects a commitment to employee well-being and long-term career growth within the firm.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Consulting, Architecture, Environmental Services. IPS-Integrated Project Services is recognized as a Top 500 Design Firm and Top 200 Environmental Firm by Engineering News-Record, indicating a strong presence and reputation in the industry.

Company Size: While the exact size of IPS is not specified in the provided data, the description mentions a "growing multi-disciplined consulting firm" and a "small-firm work environment with large-firm opportunities." This suggests a dynamic organization that values both close-knit team collaboration and significant professional growth potential.

Founded: Information about the founding date of IPS is not provided.

Team Structure:

• The Architectural Design Consultant will be part of a multidisciplinary studio environment, working alongside architectural designers and engineers from various disciplines (structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical).

• Collaboration is emphasized, with a focus on team effort to solve complex technical problems and deliver integrated solutions.

Methodology:

• The firm emphasizes a client-focused approach, delivering high levels of service across diverse market sectors including manufacturing, real estate, natural gas, solid waste, mining, power, and the public sector.

• Problem-solving is a core methodology, requiring candidates to evaluate multiple sources of information and coordinate design criteria effectively.

• The use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and advanced software like Revit and AutoCAD is integral to the design process.

• The company's strategic plan includes "People and Culture" as key elements, suggesting a methodology that prioritizes employee development and well-being.

Company Website: https://careers.ipsdb.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of technical excellence, collaborative teamwork, and employee development. The "small-firm work environment" likely translates to more direct interaction with senior leadership and a greater opportunity for individual impact, while "large-firm opportunities" suggest exposure to significant projects and career advancement possibilities.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level position, likely falling under "Senior Architectural Designer" or "Lead Architectural Consultant." It requires extensive experience (10+ years) and a strong command of design software, building codes, and project coordination. The role is expected to contribute significantly to project success and potentially mentor junior staff.

Reporting Structure: While not explicitly stated, a consultant of this level would typically report to a Senior Project Manager, Design Manager, or Principal Architect. They would, in turn, be expected to lead or guide junior designers and coordinate with external project stakeholders.

Operations Impact: The Architectural Design Consultant plays a crucial role in shaping the physical environment for clients across various sectors. Their work directly impacts project feasibility, functionality, cost-effectiveness, and compliance. By contributing to successful project delivery, they enhance the firm's reputation and client satisfaction, which in turn drives revenue growth and secures repeat business. The emphasis on "client-focused services" and "solving difficult technical problems" highlights the value this role brings to the organization's overall success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Professional Licensure: The firm actively supports employees pursuing architectural licenses, offering a clear path for career advancement and increased responsibility.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead design efforts on significant projects, mentor junior team members, and potentially move into project management or principal architect roles.

• Ownership Potential: The company explicitly mentions the opportunity to become an owner of the firm and share in its success, representing a significant long-term growth incentive.

• Skill Specialization: Potential to specialize in specific market sectors (e.g., manufacturing, power, real estate) or technical areas (e.g., BIM management, sustainability design, facility assessments).

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Opportunity to deepen understanding of other engineering disciplines through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of "becoming an owner of the firm" is a significant growth incentive and suggests a strong employee stock ownership plan or partnership track. This positions the role not just as a job, but as a long-term career opportunity with significant upside potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in an office environment, specifically at the Monroeville, PA location. The description mentions a "multidiscipline studio environment," suggesting an open or semi-open workspace designed to foster collaboration and communication among various design and engineering teams.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is 4350 Northern Pike, Suite 141, Monroeville, Pennsylvania, 15146, United States. This location is within the Pittsburgh metropolitan area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The studio setting is designed to encourage interaction, idea sharing, and problem-solving among team members.

• Technology-Rich: Access to industry-standard design software (Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam) and other necessary technological tools for architectural design and project management.

• Team Interaction: Frequent opportunities to engage with architects, engineers, project managers, and potentially clients, fostering a dynamic and engaging work atmosphere.

• Mentorship: The culture supports learning and development, implying opportunities to interact with and learn from experienced professionals.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is full-time, likely around 40 hours per week.

• While the role is primarily office-based, some travel (under 10%) is anticipated for project-related activities such as site visits or client meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "multidiscipline studio environment" suggests a dynamic workspace where cross-functional collaboration is not just encouraged but is a core aspect of daily operations. This is crucial for an architectural consultant who needs to integrate with various engineering disciplines.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess qualifications and experience alignment with the role requirements.

2. Technical Interview: Discussion focused on architectural design principles, software proficiency (Revit, AutoCAD), code compliance, and problem-solving methodologies. Expect questions related to past project challenges and how you addressed them.

3. Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your design process, coordination efforts, and the outcomes achieved. Be prepared to discuss your role, design decisions, and technical solutions.

4. Team/Cultural Fit Interview: Interaction with potential team members and hiring managers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and alignment with the company's values and culture.

5. Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss broader career aspirations, company vision, and final offer negotiation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience in core responsibilities, particularly those involving complex designs, multidisciplinary coordination, and adherence to building codes and ADA standards.

• Highlight Your Role: Clearly define your specific contributions to each project, especially in team-based environments. Use "I" statements for individual contributions and "we" for team efforts.

• Showcase Process: Detail your design process, including problem identification, conceptualization, software utilization (Revit, AutoCAD, etc.), coordination with other disciplines, and how you ensured compliance with regulations.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, provide metrics or specific examples of how your design solutions resulted in efficiency, cost savings, improved functionality, or successful project completion.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss your technical choices, software workflows, and how you handle design challenges and client feedback.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical design problem or a specific challenge from a past project to discuss your approach. Focus on your systematic problem-solving methodology.

• Code & Standard Application: Be prepared to discuss how you apply building codes, ADA requirements, and other regulatory standards in your design work.

• Software Proficiency Demonstration: While not always a live test, be ready to discuss your workflow within Revit and AutoCAD, and how you use BIM for coordination.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be thorough, given the senior nature of the role. A strong portfolio presentation is critical, as it serves as tangible evidence of your skills and experience. Emphasize your ability to integrate architectural design with engineering disciplines and navigate complex regulatory landscapes.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), creating intelligent 3D models, and generating construction documents.

• AutoCAD: Standard for 2D drafting and detailing, often used in conjunction with Revit or for legacy projects.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Including Word for documentation, Excel for calculations and data management (e.g., material take-offs), and Outlook for communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Navisworks: Used for model aggregation, clash detection, and project review, crucial for multidisciplinary coordination.

• Bluebeam Revu: A powerful tool for PDF markup, collaboration, document management, and potentially for preparing construction administration deliverables.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly stated for this role, it's common for consulting firms to use CRM systems for client management and project tracking.

• Automation tools might be leveraged for repetitive tasks in document generation or data analysis, though specific tools are not listed.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD is non-negotiable. Experience with Navisworks and Bluebeam is highly preferred and will significantly strengthen an application. Understanding how these tools facilitate multidisciplinary coordination and streamline the design-to-construction process is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design: A commitment to high-quality architectural design and technical solutions that meet client needs and exceed industry standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Valuing the collective expertise of multidisciplinary teams to achieve integrated and successful project outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client objectives through responsive service and tailored solutions.

• Problem-Solving: Embracing challenges as opportunities to innovate and apply rigorous analytical skills to find effective solutions.

• Professional Growth: Encouraging continuous learning, skill development, and career advancement for all employees.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Teams: Working seamlessly within multidisciplinary project teams, fostering open communication and mutual respect between architects and engineers.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly sharing information, providing updates, and proactively addressing potential conflicts or issues with team members and stakeholders.

• Feedback-Driven: Open to constructive feedback from colleagues and clients to refine designs and improve processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in team discussions, sharing expertise, and contributing to a collective learning environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "People and Culture" as a strategic element suggests a strong emphasis on employee well-being, professional development, and a positive work environment. The values likely promote a culture that is both performance-driven and supportive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Multidisciplinary Integration: Effectively coordinating complex architectural designs with various engineering disciplines to avoid conflicts and ensure constructability.

• Evolving Building Codes & Standards: Staying current with constantly changing building codes, ADA requirements, and sustainability regulations to ensure compliance.

• Client Management: Balancing diverse client expectations, project scopes, and budgets while maintaining design integrity.

• Technical Problem-Solving: Addressing unique and challenging site conditions or functional requirements through innovative architectural solutions.

• Fast-Paced Project Environment: Managing multiple projects simultaneously, often under tight deadlines, while maintaining high quality of work.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Professional Licensure Support: Guidance and resources to achieve or maintain architectural licensure.

• Advanced Software Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in BIM tools like Revit, Navisworks, and potentially explore new technologies.

• Project Management Skills: Development in managing project timelines, budgets, and client relationships.

• Sector Specialization: Gaining in-depth knowledge and experience in specific client markets served by IPS.

• Mentorship Programs: Learning from senior architects and engineers within the firm, fostering professional growth and career guidance.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in events to stay abreast of the latest trends, technologies, and best practices in architecture and engineering.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior architectural roles in a consulting environment. The growth opportunities are substantial, particularly the path to ownership, which offers a unique incentive for long-term commitment and high performance.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex architectural project where you had to coordinate closely with structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful integration?" (Focus on your coordination process, communication strategies, and problem-solving.)

• "How do you approach ensuring compliance with ADA accessibility requirements and current building codes throughout the design process?" (Highlight your systematic approach and knowledge of relevant standards.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about IPS-Integrated Project Services and this specific Architectural Design Consultant role?" (Research the company's projects, markets, and values; connect your skills and aspirations to their mission.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially in a multidisciplinary studio setting?" (Provide examples of your teamwork and communication style.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Tell a Story: For each project, frame it as a narrative: the client's need/problem, your team's approach, the design solution, and the successful outcome.

• Visuals are Key: Use high-quality renderings, drawings, and BIM model screenshots. Annotate them to highlight key design features, coordination points, or code compliance elements.

• Focus on Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions. Use phrases like "I was responsible for..." or "My design approach involved..."

• Demonstrate Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of your designs, your use of software, and how you navigated complex requirements.

• Quantify Success: If possible, mention project scale, budget considerations, or specific achievements (e.g., "achieved a 15% reduction in HVAC load through integrated design").

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss specific examples that demonstrate your ability to translate complex requirements into practical, compliant, and well-executed architectural designs, particularly within a collaborative engineering context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided on the IPS-Integrated Project Services careers portal.

• Tailor your Resume: Highlight your 10+ years of architectural design experience, proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD, knowledge of building codes, ADA compliance, and any experience with construction administration or facility assessments. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 diverse projects that demonstrate your design skills, technical proficiency, and ability to coordinate with engineering disciplines. Ensure clear articulation of your role and project outcomes.

• Prepare for Technical Questions: Review common architectural design principles, BIM workflows, and regulatory standards. Practice discussing your past projects and problem-solving approaches.

• Research IPS: Familiarize yourself with IPS-Integrated Project Services' projects, market sectors, and company culture to articulate your interest and fit during the interview process.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.