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Architectural Engineering Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Architectural Designer

Chicago, IL · Hybrid

$25 - $35/hr

Collaborate with architects, engineers, and planners to integrate design, technical, and constructability requirements. * Support the design team by iterating design options using Grasshopper and ...

... Architectural Engineering or equivalent required * 5-10 years of relevant post-graduate experience * Architectural License required * Working Knowledge of Revit * Preferred experience working in an ...

... Architectural Engineering, or related field; 2 years relevant experience in architecture; and required skills (2 years exp) in: reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings; Revit;

... Architectural Engineering, or related field; 2 years relevant experience in architecture; and required skills (2 years exp) in: reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings; Revit;

Designer, Architecture

Chicago, IL · On-site

$61K - $100K/yr

... Architectural Engineering, or related field; 2 years relevant experience in architecture; and required skills (2 years exp) in: reading and interpreting architectural and engineering drawings; Revit;

Architect Coordinator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$48.91 - $69.88/hr

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES • Advanced knowledge of architectural engineering theories, principles, practices, and procedures. • Advanced knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local ...

Senior Architect

Chicago, IL · On-site

$111K/yr

Considerable knowledge of the principles and best practices of planning, Architectural/Engineering design, procurement, and construction projects. * Considerable knowledge of project management ...

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Architectural Engineering information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11.3K

$86.2K

$146.3K

How much do architectural engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for architectural engineering in Chicago, IL is $86,196.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,400.00 and $115,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is architectural engineering?

Architectural engineering is a discipline that focuses on the engineering aspects of building design and construction. Architectural engineers collaborate with architects and other professionals to ensure buildings are safe, sustainable, and functional, integrating structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems. Their work includes designing and analyzing building systems, ensuring code compliance, and addressing environmental and energy efficiency concerns. This field bridges the gap between architecture and engineering, emphasizing both aesthetics and technical performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an architectural engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Architectural Engineer, a strong background in mathematics, physics, building design, and engineering principles—typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in architectural engineering—is essential. Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and building information modeling (BIM) systems, as well as licensure such as the Professional Engineer (PE) certification, is often required. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills set outstanding professionals apart in this role. These capabilities are vital for ensuring safe, efficient, and innovative building solutions that meet client and regulatory requirements.

How does an architectural engineer typically collaborate with architects and construction teams during a project?

Architectural engineers work closely with architects to ensure that building designs are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound. Throughout a project, they participate in design meetings, review architectural plans, and provide input on structural systems, HVAC, and electrical layouts. Collaboration with construction teams is essential to address technical challenges during the build phase and to ensure all systems are implemented according to specifications. This teamwork helps bridge the gap between creative design and practical construction, leading to successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Architectural Engineering vs Civil Engineering?

AspectArchitectural EngineeringCivil Engineering
CredentialsBachelor's in Architectural Engineering, PE license (optional)Bachelor's in Civil Engineering, PE license
Work EnvironmentDesigning building systems, collaborating with architectsDesigning infrastructure, construction projects
Industry UsageBuilding design, HVAC, electrical, plumbing systemsTransportation, water resources, structural projects

Architectural Engineering focuses on building systems and integration within structures, while Civil Engineering covers broader infrastructure projects. Both roles require similar credentials and often work in construction or design industries, but their specific focus areas differ significantly.

Are architectural engineers in demand?

Architectural engineers are in demand due to ongoing construction projects and infrastructure development, especially in regions with active building growth. Employment opportunities are expected to grow as the need for sustainable and energy-efficient building systems increases, requiring skills in design, analysis, and the use of engineering software.

Do architectural engineers get paid well?

Architectural engineers typically earn competitive salaries that reflect their specialized skills in designing and integrating building systems. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and certifications, with many earning above the national average for engineering roles. The profession often offers opportunities for advancement and additional compensation through project management and advanced technical skills.

What can architectural engineers do?

Architectural engineers design and analyze building systems such as structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to ensure safety, functionality, and energy efficiency. They collaborate with architects and construction teams, often using tools like CAD software, and may need professional licensure to lead projects and oversee construction processes.

What jobs can you do with an architectural engineering degree?

An architectural engineering degree prepares individuals for roles such as structural engineer, building systems designer, construction manager, or project engineer. These jobs involve designing, analyzing, and overseeing building systems like structural frameworks, HVAC, electrical, and plumbing, often requiring knowledge of CAD software and building codes.

What are the most commonly searched types of Architectural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Architectural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Architectural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Architectural Engineering jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Architectural Engineering jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Architectural Engineering job openings:

Infographic showing various Architectural Engineering job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $86,196 per year, or $41.4 per hour.

Architectural Designer

Chicago, IL • Hybrid

Actalent
Business Management Consulting • 5 - 10K employees

$25 - $35/hr

Contractor

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Job Title: Architectural DesignerJob Description

This Architectural Designer role focuses on producing high-quality renderings and 3D models in Rhino for international, large-scale, mixed-use buildings. You will work on complex geometries, including curved forms, and contribute to schematic design, design development, and construction documentation on prestigious projects that can significantly enhance your professional portfolio.

Responsibilities
  • Produce detailed 3D models in Rhino for large-scale, mixed-use building projects.
  • Develop high-quality renderings using tools such as Enscape or D5 to clearly communicate design intent.
  • Work with complex geometries, including curved and non-standard forms, to support innovative architectural concepts.
  • Contribute to schematic design and design development phases, translating design ideas into clear digital models and drawings.
  • Assist in the preparation and coordination of construction documents and construction drawings.
  • Collaborate with architects, engineers, and planners to integrate design, technical, and constructability requirements.
  • Support the design team by iterating design options using Grasshopper and other parametric tools as needed.
  • Maintain accuracy, organization, and consistency across all digital files, models, and drawings.
  • Participate in project meetings and design reviews, incorporating feedback into models and documentation.
  • Meet project deadlines and deliverables while maintaining high standards of design quality and technical precision.
Essential Skills
  • Proficiency in Rhino, including experience modeling complex geometries and curved forms.
  • Experience producing construction documents and construction drawings.
  • Strong technical skills in architectural design, including schematic design and design development.
  • Ability to create detailed 3D models and visualizations for large-scale, mixed-use projects.
  • Background in architecture, demonstrated through education and/or professional experience.
  • Experience level ranging from entry level to approximately 8+ years in architectural design or related roles.
  • Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams including architecture, engineering, and planning.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to maintain accuracy in digital models and documentation.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience with Grasshopper for parametric and algorithmic design workflows.
  • Experience using rendering software such as Enscape or D5.
  • Academic or internship experience working on complex, large-scale architectural projects.
  • Familiarity with the full architectural design process from concept through construction documentation.
  • Strong visual communication skills, including the ability to present design ideas clearly through renderings and diagrams.
  • Interest in working on international projects and complex mixed-use developments.
  • Motivation to build a strong design portfolio by contributing to high-profile architectural work.
Work Environment

You will join a 75-person full-service architecture, engineering, and planning firm based in downtown Chicago. The team follows a hybrid work schedule, spending four days per week in the office with remote work on Fridays. The environment emphasizes collaboration across disciplines, providing exposure to both design and technical aspects of complex projects. This position begins as a minimum 12-week assignment with the potential to extend based on workload and performance, offering an opportunity to gain substantial experience on notable international, large-scale, mixed-use developments in a professional studio setting.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Chicago, IL.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $25.00 - $35.00/hr.

Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in Chicago,IL.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 31, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications withoutregard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability,sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protectedby law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification oradjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability,please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance:Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in thecity and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicantswith arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector:It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as acondition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this lawshall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI):We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process,including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applicationsand qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, youacknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.


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About Actalent

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Actalent connects passion with purpose. Our scalable talent solutions and services capabilities drive value and results and provide the expertise to help our customers achieve more. Every day, our experts around the globe are making an impact. We're supporting critical initiatives in engineering and sciences that advance how companies serve the world. Actalent promotes consultant care and engagement through experiences that enable continuous development. Our people are the difference. Actalent is an operating company of Allegis Group, the global leader in talent solutions.

Industry

Business management consulting

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Hanover, MD, US

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