Architectural Design Technologist
π Job Overview
Job Title: Architectural Design Technologist Company: Parkhill Location: Lubbock, Texas, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Design & Engineering Operations Date Posted: August 22, 2025 Experience Level: Entry-Level (0-2 years) Remote Status: Hybrid
π Role Summary
- This role focuses on the end-to-end design process for architectural projects, from conceptualization to construction administration, requiring a blend of technical design skills and collaborative project management.
- The position involves detailed analysis of architectural data, preparation of comprehensive construction documents, and the development of intricate design details using advanced software.
- Strong emphasis on cross-disciplinary coordination with consultants, contractors, and internal teams to ensure project success and client satisfaction.
- Actively contribute to the "Building Community" ethos of Parkhill by delivering high-quality, impactful architectural designs.
π Enhancement Note: While the title is "Architectural Design Technologist," the responsibilities described align with a Junior Architectural Designer or Designer I role, emphasizing collaboration and document preparation rather than purely technical "technologist" functions. The "0-2 years" experience level confirms this entry-level focus. The core of the role is supporting senior designers and project managers in bringing architectural visions to life.
π Primary Responsibilities
- Collaborate with design teams to advance architectural projects from the initial programming and conceptual design phases through to the final stages of construction administration.
- Conduct thorough reviews and analyses of diverse architectural data to define project requirements and ensure alignment with engineering objectives, including performing necessary design calculations.
- Prepare comprehensive and accurate drawing packages, including site plans, floor plans, elevations, sections, and details, ensuring adherence to project specifications and building codes.
- Assist in the development and refinement of non-standard and complex design details, showcasing technical proficiency and problem-solving capabilities.
- Utilize advanced Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software, specifically Revit Architecture, alongside other relevant digital tools like Sketchup and Bluebeam, to execute design assignments efficiently and effectively.
- Coordinate effectively with various disciplines, including structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) consultants, to integrate their work seamlessly into the overall architectural design.
- Liaise with contractors and owners during the construction phase to address queries, review submittals, and ensure the project is built according to the design intent and specifications.
- Maintain clear and consistent communication channels with internal team members, consultants, and external stakeholders to foster a collaborative project environment and ensure project milestones are met.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on involvement in the design documentation process, crucial for operations within an architecture firm. This includes not just creating drawings but also analyzing data and coordinating with multiple stakeholders, which are foundational for efficient project delivery and internal operational flow.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
- A Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering Technology, or a closely related field is required, providing a strong theoretical foundation in design principles and practices.
- Alternatively, an Associate's degree in Computer Aided Design/Graphics or a comparable technical program is acceptable, demonstrating specialized technical skills.
Experience:
- 0-2 years of professional experience in an architectural design role, ideally within a firm environment, to gain practical exposure to project lifecycles and documentation standards.
- Experience with internships or co-op programs in architecture or design technology is highly valued and can substitute for some professional experience.
Required Skills:
- Revit Architecture Proficiency: Advanced skills in utilizing Revit for 3D modeling, documentation, and design development are critical for project execution.
- Construction Documents Preparation: Demonstrated ability to create detailed and accurate construction drawings, including plans, sections, elevations, and schedules.
- Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for effective interaction with internal teams, consultants, clients, and contractors.
- Microsoft Word & Excel: Proficiency in standard office productivity software for documentation, data management, and basic analysis.
- Bluebeam Proficiency: Experience with Bluebeam Revu for PDF markup, collaboration, and document management is essential for project workflows.
- Sketchup Proficiency: Familiarity with Sketchup for conceptual modeling and visualization to support design exploration.
- Architectural Data Analysis: Ability to review and interpret architectural plans, specifications, and related data to inform design decisions and identify project requirements.
Preferred Skills:
- Adobe Creative Suite: Familiarity with software like Photoshop and InDesign for presentation graphics and visual communication.
- Project Coordination: Experience coordinating design efforts with multiple engineering disciplines (e.g., Structural, MEP).
- Building Codes and Standards: Basic understanding of local building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards.
- Sketching and Ideation: Strong hand-sketching abilities to quickly convey design concepts.
π Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software like Revit, Bluebeam, and Sketchup, alongside core design and communication skills, points to a role that requires immediate technical contribution. Proficiency here is key for operational efficiency in the design and documentation phases.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
- Showcase a minimum of 2-3 distinct architectural design projects, demonstrating a progression from conceptualization to detailed design.
- Include examples of construction document sets, highlighting proficiency in creating plans, sections, elevations, and detailed drawings.
- Present examples of 3D modeling and visualization using Revit and Sketchup, illustrating spatial understanding and aesthetic capabilities.
- Demonstrate experience with software tools like Bluebeam for document review and markup, indicating an understanding of collaborative workflows.
- For each project, briefly describe the design intent, your role, key challenges, and the solutions implemented, emphasizing process and outcome.
Process Documentation:
- Highlight any experience or understanding of design process methodologies, such as the integration of BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows.
- Include documentation or examples that illustrate your approach to managing design revisions and maintaining version control within a project.
- Showcase examples of how you have contributed to or followed established design standards and quality control procedures within a team environment.
π Enhancement Note: For an entry-level role, the portfolio should focus on academic projects and any internship work that demonstrates foundational skills in design software, documentation, and collaborative processes. It's about showing potential and understanding of industry workflows, rather than extensive professional experience.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
- Based on industry benchmarks for Architectural Design Technologists/Junior Designers with 0-2 years of experience in Lubbock, Texas, the estimated annual salary range is $50,000 - $65,000. This estimate considers the cost of living in Lubbock, the company's size, and the specific technical skills required.
Benefits:
- Life Balance:
- Hybrid/flexible work schedules and a flexible work environment to promote work-life integration.
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidays for rest and rejuvenation.
- Investing in Your Future Growth:
- Access to specialized training programs and support for continuing education.
- Opportunities for professional licensing and participation in intern development programs.
- Enrollment in the "University of Parkhill" for ongoing learning and skill enhancement.
- Competitive Benefits:
- Comprehensive medical coverage with Parkhill contributing up to 80% of premiums.
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for dependent care expenses.
- Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions to support healthcare costs.
- Employer-sponsored 401k contributions to aid retirement savings.
- Employer-provided short-term and long-term disability coverage.
- Eligibility for performance-based bonuses.
- Well-Being:
- Access to mental health care resources and support.
- Engagement in culture committees and wellness programs.
- Company matching for charitable giving initiatives.
Working Hours:
- This is a full-time, exempt position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. The company offers flexibility in work schedules, allowing for potential hybrid arrangements and adjustments to daily start/end times within the standard work week to accommodate project needs and employee preferences.
π Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on available data for similar roles in the specified region. Parkhill's benefits package is notably comprehensive, emphasizing employee well-being, professional development, and work-life balance, which are strong attractors for operations professionals focused on long-term career growth and personal fulfillment.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) Services, with a strong focus on community development and client-centric solutions. Parkhill operates within a sector that requires precision, collaboration, and a long-term vision for project success. Company Size: Parkhill is one of the largest architectural and engineering firms in the Southwest, with 13 offices across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma. This substantial size indicates a robust organizational structure, diverse project portfolio, and ample opportunities for professional development and networking. Founded: While the founding date is not explicitly stated, Parkhill's established presence across multiple states suggests a history of consistent growth and a proven track record in the AEC industry. This implies a stable work environment with established processes and a culture of expertise.
Team Structure:
- Employees are part of project-based teams that often include architects, engineers, designers, project managers, and administrative support staff, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary work environment.
- The design team likely operates with a clear hierarchy, with junior designers reporting to senior designers or project architects, ensuring mentorship and guidance.
- Cross-functional collaboration is a cornerstone of the firm's operations, requiring designers to work closely with various engineering disciplines, construction teams, and client representatives.
Methodology:
- Parkhill emphasizes a data-driven approach to design, utilizing advanced software and analysis tools to inform decision-making and optimize project outcomes.
- Workflow planning and optimization are crucial, with a focus on efficient project delivery from concept to completion, leveraging BIM and other integrated design processes.
- The firm likely employs automation and efficiency practices where possible, particularly through the standardized use of design software and project management tools, to enhance productivity and maintain quality.
Company Website: careers-parkhill.icims.com
π Enhancement Note: Parkhill's "Building Community" ethos suggests a culture that values local impact, client relationships, and employee engagement. The firm's size and regional presence indicate a stable yet dynamic environment where operational excellence in design and project execution is paramount.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This position is positioned as an entry-level role (0-2 years experience) for an Architectural Design Technologist. It represents the foundational stage of a career within the architectural design operations of a firm, focusing on learning and contributing to project documentation and design support. Reporting Structure: Typically, an Architectural Design Technologist will report to a Senior Architectural Designer, Project Architect, or a Project Manager. This reporting structure provides direct mentorship and oversight, crucial for skill development and adherence to firm standards. Operations Impact: The role directly impacts the efficiency and quality of the design documentation process. Accurate and timely preparation of construction documents is vital for smooth project execution, cost control, and client satisfaction, underpinning the firm's operational success.
Growth Opportunities:
- Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in Revit Architecture, explore advanced modeling techniques, and potentially gain exposure to other design software and rendering tools.
- Professional Development: Access to Parkhill's "University of Parkhill," specialized training, and support for professional licensing (e.g., NCIDQ, RA licensure) can pave the way for career progression.
- Leadership Potential: With demonstrated performance and experience, growth into roles like Senior Designer, Project Architect, or even Project Management is a potential career trajectory within the firm.
π Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is clearly defined within the AEC industry, moving from design support to leading design efforts. Parkhill's investment in employee development through training and licensing support indicates a commitment to nurturing talent and providing clear career progression pathways.
π Work Environment
Office Type: Parkhill operates a network of physical offices across the Southwest, indicating a traditional office-based work environment that also embraces hybrid flexibility. This setup allows for in-person collaboration while accommodating modern work preferences. Office Location(s): With 13 offices across Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, Parkhill offers various work locations. The specific office in Lubbock, Texas (4222 85th Street, Lubbock, TX 79423) serves as a central hub for local operations.
Workspace Context:
- The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with shared design studios and meeting rooms equipped for team discussions and client presentations.
- Access to industry-standard design software and hardware is provided, ensuring employees have the necessary tools for their roles.
- Opportunities for interaction with a diverse team of architects, engineers, and support staff are abundant, promoting a rich learning and collaborative environment.
Work Schedule: The position is full-time, with typical working hours around 40 hours per week. The company's commitment to a "hybrid/flexible work schedule" and "flexible work environment" suggests that employees may have some autonomy in structuring their workdays and potentially working remotely on certain days, provided project needs and team coordination are met.
π Enhancement Note: The hybrid flexibility is a key aspect of the work environment, balancing the need for in-person collaboration in a design-focused field with the desire for personal flexibility, aligning with modern operational expectations for employee satisfaction and productivity.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
- Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess foundational skills, education, and alignment with the role's technical requirements.
- Technical Interview: This stage typically involves in-depth discussions about your design process, software proficiency (Revit, Bluebeam, Sketchup), and problem-solving approaches. Expect questions related to interpreting architectural data and preparing construction documents.
- Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present selected projects from your portfolio, explaining your design intent, technical contributions, and the processes you followed. Be prepared to discuss challenges and solutions.
- Team/Culture Fit Interview: Meetings with potential colleagues and managers to evaluate your collaboration style, communication skills, and how well you align with Parkhill's "Building Community" culture.
- Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the firm.
Portfolio Review Tips:
- Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your strongest projects that best showcase your skills in Revit, construction documentation, and design problem-solving.
- Highlight Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions to each project, especially if it was a team effort.
- Showcase Process: Include sketches, diagrams, and workflow examples to demonstrate your design thinking and how you use software.
- Focus on Clarity: Ensure your drawings are clean, well-organized, and easy to understand. Use annotations effectively.
- Quantify Impact (if possible): Even for academic projects, mention any efficiency gains or design improvements you achieved.
- Prepare a Digital Format: Have your portfolio readily accessible digitally (PDF, online portfolio link) for easy sharing.
Challenge Preparation:
- Be prepared for potential exercises that might involve sketching a design solution for a simple architectural problem or a brief task using Revit or Bluebeam to test your software skills under timed conditions.
- Practice articulating your design process and technical decisions concisely.
- Research Parkhill's recent projects and their community involvement to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the firm's mission.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh technical proficiency in design software and the ability to clearly communicate design intent and process. A well-organized portfolio that highlights practical application of skills is crucial for making a strong impression.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
- Revit Architecture: The core software for building information modeling (BIM), 3D design, and construction documentation. Proficiency is mandatory.
- Bluebeam Revu: Essential for PDF creation, markup, collaboration, and document management throughout the project lifecycle.
- Sketchup: Used for conceptual design, massing studies, and quick visualization.
- Microsoft Office Suite: Word for documentation and Excel for data management and basic calculations.
Analytics & Reporting:
- While not a primary focus for this role, familiarity with tools that track project progress or manage design data may be beneficial. This could include internal project management systems or basic data analysis within Excel.
CRM & Automation:
- This role does not directly involve CRM or sales automation. However, understanding how design documentation integrates with project management and client communication systems is advantageous.
π Enhancement Note: The technology stack is heavily focused on design and documentation software. Mastery of Revit and Bluebeam is critical for operational efficiency in this role, as these tools are central to the firm's design delivery process.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
- Building Community: A core value that translates to a commitment to clients, colleagues, and the broader community through impactful design and service.
- Collaboration: A strong emphasis on teamwork, open communication, and mutual support across disciplines and project teams.
- Integrity: Upholding ethical standards, delivering on promises, and maintaining transparency in all dealings.
- Excellence: A dedication to high-quality design, technical proficiency, and continuous improvement in all aspects of work.
- Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design and delivery.
Collaboration Style:
- Parkhill fosters a collaborative environment where team members are encouraged to share ideas, provide constructive feedback, and work together towards common project goals.
- Expect cross-functional teamwork, requiring effective communication and coordination with architects, engineers, project managers, and external stakeholders.
- A culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing is promoted, with opportunities for mentorship and peer-to-peer learning.
π Enhancement Note: The "Building Community" ethos permeates Parkhill's culture, suggesting a workplace that values relationships, service, and a shared purpose beyond just project delivery. This cultural aspect is important for candidates seeking a fulfilling and mission-driven work environment.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
- Managing Multiple Projects: Balancing workload and deadlines across different projects in an entry-level capacity can be demanding.
- Technical Skill Refinement: Continuously improving proficiency in complex software like Revit and adapting to new design technologies requires ongoing learning.
- Cross-Disciplinary Coordination: Effectively integrating architectural designs with the requirements of various engineering disciplines can present coordination challenges.
- Adapting to Firm Standards: Learning and adhering to Parkhill's specific design processes, documentation protocols, and quality control measures.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
- Operations Skill Advancement: Gaining hands-on experience in all phases of the architectural design process, from concept to construction administration.
- Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue professional certifications and licenses relevant to architectural design and technology.
- Mentorship Programs: Benefit from guidance and expertise from experienced professionals within Parkhill's structured intern development programs and the "University of Parkhill."
π Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for entry-level roles in the AEC industry, focusing on skill acquisition and project integration. Parkhill's commitment to learning and development provides a strong framework for overcoming these challenges and fostering long-term career growth.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
- Design Process: "Walk me through your process for developing a set of construction documents, from initial concept to final drawings." Focus on your workflow, software usage, and attention to detail.
- Software Proficiency: "Describe a complex modeling challenge you faced in Revit or Sketchup and how you overcame it." Be ready to discuss specific techniques and problem-solving approaches.
- Collaboration: "How do you approach coordinating design elements with different engineering disciplines?" Prepare examples of effective communication and integration strategies.
- Problem-Solving: "Imagine a scenario where a design detail you created conflicts with a structural requirement. How would you address this?" Demonstrate your analytical skills and collaborative problem-solving.
Company & Culture Questions:
- "What interests you about Parkhill's 'Building Community' mission?" Research their community projects and articulate your alignment.
- "How do you handle constructive criticism on your design work?" Emphasize your openness to feedback and learning.
- "Describe your ideal team environment." Highlight collaboration, communication, and mutual support.
Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
- Storytelling: Frame each project as a narrative β the problem, your approach, the solution, and the outcome.
- Visual Clarity: Ensure your digital portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and visually appealing. Use high-quality renderings and clear drawings.
- Highlighting Technical Skills: Point out specific examples in your work where you demonstrated proficiency in Revit, Bluebeam, or Sketchup.
- Conciseness: Be prepared to present key projects within a defined timeframe, focusing on the most impactful elements.
π Enhancement Note: The interview preparation should focus on showcasing technical design skills, understanding of the AEC project lifecycle, and alignment with Parkhill's collaborative and community-focused culture. A strong portfolio presentation is key to demonstrating these aspects.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
- Submit your application through the provided link on the Parkhill careers portal.
- Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects that demonstrate proficiency in Revit Architecture, Bluebeam, and Sketchup. Include examples of construction documents and clear design problem-solving.
- Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your education, any relevant internship experience, and explicitly lists your proficiency in the required software and skills, using keywords from the job description.
- Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, technical skills, and collaborative approach. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio to discuss during interviews.
- Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Parkhill's mission, values, and recent projects, paying particular attention to their community involvement and design philosophy.
β οΈ 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.
Application Requirements
A Bachelorβs degree in Architecture, Engineering Technology, or a related field is required. Proficiency in Revit Architecture and other design software is essential.