Associate Design Director Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA) is a Detroit-based, architecture and interior design firm dedicated to creating spaces that honor history, strengthen communities, and reflect the people who use them. Our work spans cultural, civic, educational, and commercial projects, with a strong focus on collaboration, equity, and design excellence.

The Design Professional II is an architectural team member responsible for supporting project teams through multiple phases of the design and construction process. Working under the guidance of Senior Design Staff, Project Architects, and Directors, this role contributes to programming, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation while developing technical and coordination skills. The Design Professional II will also assist with the development of project documentation, participate in team meetings, and support coordination with consultants, codes, and construction activities while continuing to build professional experience toward architectural licensure.

• Design Development & Construction Documentation
• Assist with programming activities including preparing functional relationship and adjacency diagrams
• Conduct case study research and assist with documenting user needs and project requirements
• Assist with documenting existing building conditions and site information
• Prepare schematic design drawings, diagrams, and models under the supervision of senior team members
• Prepare volume and area calculations to support early design studies
• Prepare design development documentation based on approved schematic design under the supervision of senior team members
• Prepare architectural plans, elevations, sections, and detailed construction drawings under the supervision of senior team members
• Assist with preparation of outline specifications and construction specifications for smaller or less complex projects
• Support coordination and cross‑referencing of drawing sets and documentation to ensure consistency between architectural and consultant documents during all phases of project development
• Assist with reviewing design development and construction documents to identify inconsistencies in document packages
• Project Coordination & Technical Support
• Assist Project Architects and Project Managers with coordination of consultant work and project documentation
• Investigate and summarize zoning and regulatory restrictions affecting project design
• Research, evaluate, and summarize all applicable local, state, and federal building codes and regulations
• Assist with identifying design adjustments required to meet regulatory requirements
• Attend preliminary meetings with code officials and assist with documentation
• Assist with coordination of input from public agencies, jurisdictional authorities, and consultants
• Assist with research and evaluation of appropriate engineering systems
• Support coordination and verification of available utilities
• Assist in evaluating space requirements and associated system costs
• Attend internal project meetings and contribute to team discussions
• Bidding Support & Construction Administration
• Assist with compiling project drawings and documentation to support bidding processes
• Assist with completing bidding and contract forms
• Review bids for completeness and accuracy under the supervision of senior team members
• Assist with preparation of addenda and bulletins
• Attend bid‑opening meetings with senior staff or project managers
• Attend on‑site field visits and assist with preparation of field reports
• Attend Owner–Architect–Contractor (OAC) meetings and assist with meeting documentation
• Assist with review and coordination of shop drawings, samples, and submittals
• Support responses to Requests for Information (RFIs)
• Assist with punch‑list preparation and completion for smaller or less complex projects
• Research, Materials & Professional Development
• Review product literature to identify appropriate materials based on performance, life‑cycle cost, and sustainability considerations
• Prepare production sequence flow charts for consultants or clients on smaller projects when required
• Attend Lunch & Learn programs and vendor presentations to stay informed on materials and building systems
• Provide mentorship and guidance to high school and college interns
• Participate in intern interviews and evaluation feedback when requested
• Assist with preparation of design and marketing materials for the Marketing team
• Support a collaborative studio environment by participating in design discussions and sharing knowledge with team members

• Strong organizational, communication, and graphic presentation skills
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Experience with design and visualization software such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, Envision, Rhino, and Lumion (preferred)
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment and meet project deadlines
• Ability to work effectively and independently under the supervision of senior team members
• Strong attention to detail and ability to perform essential duties with accuracy and consistency
• Ability to interpret drawings, building codes, standards, and project documentation
• Working knowledge of building design, materials, and construction processes
• Ability to communicate effectively with team members, consultants, and project stakeholders

• Professional degree in Architecture (Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture) from an NCARB‑accredited program
• Two to four (2–4) years of professional architectural experience
• Demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities associated with the Design Professional II role
• Intention to establish an NCARB record and pursue Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) licensure
• Legal authorization to work in the United States (required)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Life insurance and short‑term disability coverage
• Paid time off and firm holidays
• Hybrid work schedule in accordance with firm policy

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.