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Commercial Building Design Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Structural Building Engineer

Denver, CO · On-site

Lead structural design and analysis for aviation, aerospace, federal, health & science, and commercial building projects * Serve as a technical lead for major projects and provide engineering ...

HDR

Project Manager - Building Design

Charlotte, NC · On-site

As part of HDR's Building Engineering Services Group, you'll help design the critical ... From high-performance data centers driving the future of AI to dynamic commercial environments ...

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How much do commercial building design jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for commercial building design in the United States is $25.98, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $27.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the career that designs buildings?

A career that designs buildings is typically held by an architect or a commercial building designer. These professionals create plans and specifications for new structures or renovations, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software and requiring relevant licensure or certification. They work closely with clients, engineers, and contractors throughout the project development process.

What is commercial building design?

Commercial building design is the process of creating plans and specifications for structures used for business purposes, such as offices, retail stores, warehouses, and hotels. It involves architectural, engineering, and functional considerations to ensure the buildings are safe, efficient, and meet the needs of businesses and occupants. Designers must also consider local building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability practices when planning commercial buildings.

What does a commercial designer do?

A commercial designer plans and creates the layout, appearance, and functionality of commercial buildings such as offices, retail stores, and warehouses. They collaborate with clients, architects, and engineers to develop design concepts, select materials, and ensure compliance with building codes using design software like AutoCAD or Revit. Their work involves balancing aesthetic appeal with practicality, safety, and regulatory standards.

What is the highest paid design job?

In commercial building design, senior roles such as Principal Architect or Design Director tend to be the highest paid, often earning six-figure salaries. These positions require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of design software and building codes.

What is the difference between Commercial Building Design vs Commercial Construction Management?

AspectCommercial Building DesignCommercial Construction Management
Primary FocusCreating architectural plans and layouts for commercial buildingsOverseeing construction projects, managing schedules and budgets
Required CredentialsArchitectural degree, licensing, design certificationsConstruction management degree, certifications like CCM or PMP
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetings, draftingConstruction sites, project offices, coordination meetings
Industry UsageDesign firms, architectural practicesConstruction firms, general contractors

While Commercial Building Design focuses on creating detailed plans and aesthetics for commercial structures, Commercial Construction Management involves supervising the actual building process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget. Both roles are essential in the commercial construction industry but differ in their core responsibilities and work environments.

What is the highest paying career in design?

In design fields, roles such as industrial designers, user experience (UX) directors, and design directors tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures with experience and advanced skills. Senior positions that involve leadership, strategic planning, and specialized expertise typically offer the highest compensation in the design industry.

How does a professional in Commercial Building Design typically collaborate with other stakeholders during a project?

In Commercial Building Design, professionals regularly work in close coordination with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients throughout each project phase. This collaboration ensures that the design aligns with client expectations, complies with safety codes, and meets functionality requirements. Designers often participate in meetings, present design concepts, and address feedback from various stakeholders, making strong communication and teamwork skills essential. Effective collaboration helps prevent costly revisions and ensures that the project stays on schedule and within budget.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Commercial Building Design, and why are they important?

To thrive in Commercial Building Design, you need a solid background in architecture or engineering, a relevant degree, and familiarity with building codes and standards. Expertise with design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM systems, as well as professional licensure (like an architect’s license), is typically required. Strong communication, creativity, and project management skills help professionals collaborate with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams. These skills ensure functional, aesthetically pleasing, and code-compliant buildings that meet client needs and regulatory requirements.
More about Commercial Building Design jobs
What job categories do people searching Commercial Building Design jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Commercial Building Design jobs are:
Commercial Building Design jobs near you
Infographic showing various Commercial Building Design job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,034 per year, or $26 per hour.
Mechanical Project Manager

Mechanical Project Manager

Thorson Baker & Associates Inc.

Charlotte, NC • On-site

$84K - $114K/yr

Full-time

Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 hours ago

Job description

Description:

Mechanical engineer capable of performing building design, managing client relationships and managing technical staff for the development of schematic, design development, construction documents, specifications and construction administration for institutional and commercial building projects.


Duties Include:

  • Mechanical design of HVAC, plumbing and fire protection systems for institutional, retail and commercial building projects.
  • Prepare calculations and well coordinated, technically sound construction documents that are cost effective, efficient and constructible.
  • Manage Project Engineers, Design Engineers and CAD/BIM Technicians for building design projects including quality control of documents in a friendly work environment.
  • Communicate and coordinate with architects, owners, other engineering disciplines, vendors, building officials, other consultants, etc. throughout the design phases of the building project.
  • Review calculations prepared by other engineers including energy, HVAC load, building energy modeling, etc.
  • Prepare opinions of probable cost and review project construction budgets for building projects.
  • Must meet client schedules and internal design and construction administration time budgets.
  • Office construction administration including review of shop drawings, respond to RFI’s, and coordinate with contractors, design team, building officials, owner, etc. through the construction phase of the building project.
  • Must identify additional scope during the design and construction process and be capable of preparing additional service quotes for Principal review.
  • Able to travel nationally for pre-design site visits, design meetings, construction phase site observations, etc. and prepare detailed technical narrative reports.


Requirements:


  • Five (5) to ten (10) years experience in the mechanical design of HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems for institutional and/or commercial building systems.
  • Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering.
  • Must possess excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Efficient in Microsoft Word and Excel.
  • Familiar with AutoCAD and Revit.
  • Professional engineering license a plus.
  • Capable of attending and engaging in meetings with clients, owners, contractors, etc. in a positive and productive manner.
  • Possess a good work ethic and be efficient in job duties.
  • Willing to work extra hours above 40 hours a week when necessary to meet project deadlines and client demands.
  • Familiarity with green building design practices and/or LEED.


Thorson Baker + Associates offers a flexible starting time:

8 hours Mon-Friday

8.5 hours Mon-Thursday with 6-hour Fridays

9 hours Mon-Thursday with 4-hour Fridays



Benefits:

  • 401K
  • 401K Matching
  • Free vision insurance
  • Free Dental Insurance
  • Free Short-Term Disability
  • Free Long-Term Disability
  • Flexible spending account
  • Health savings account
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance

Our company culture includes, but is not limited to

  • Memorable and unique social events.
  • (2) Yearly company golf outings.
  • Work from home flexibility.
  • Work, life balance.