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Independent Architect Jobs (NOW HIRING)

About S9 Architecture S9 Architecture is a 55+ person design practice grounded in modern ... Lead coordination efforts for assigned scopes with increasing independence * Mentor junior team ...

Data Architect

Miami, FL · On-site

$61 - $78.50/hr

We are seeking a Data Architect to join our team at Independent Living Systems (ILS). ILS, along with its affiliated health plans known as Florida Community Care and Florida Complete Care, is ...

Architect II

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Ability to work both independently and within a team environment QUALIFICATIONS * Professional degree in Architecture and licensure required * Additional sustainable or technical accreditations ...

Architect II

Raleigh, NC · On-site

$90K - $100K/yr

Ability to work both independently and within a team environment QUALIFICATIONS * Professional degree in Architecture and licensure required * Additional sustainable or technical accreditations ...

PROJECT ARCHITECT

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$90 - $150/hr

Independently applies advanced architectural concepts and designs. Carries out complex or novel assignments requiring the development of new or improved techniques and procedures. Additionally ...

The Architect will exercise independent judgment in evaluating, selecting, and applying standard architectural design techniques, procedures, and criteria to make design adaptations and modifications.

ArchitectPosition Description As a mid-level licensed Architect based in our Seattle office, you will independently contribute to the planning, design, and delivery of architectural projects while ...

Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

ArchitectPosition Description As a mid-level licensed Architect based in our Seattle office, you will independently contribute to the planning, design, and delivery of architectural projects while ...

Architect

Seattle, WA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Description Architect Position Description As a mid-level licensed Architect based in our Seattle office, you will independently contribute to the planning, design, and delivery of architectural ...

Architect

Seattle, WA

$95K - $120K/yr

ArchitectPosition Description As a mid-level licensed Architect based in our Seattle office, you will independently contribute to the planning, design, and delivery of architectural projects while ...

Advanced Revit knowledge - independently deliver defined drawing packages/projects and teach others on best practice. * Advanced knowledge of production-ready visualization capabilities (SketchUp ...

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Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

THE POSITION The Architectural Project Manager role involves working independently on multiple projects in collaboration with a fast-paced and creative team. With direction from the Principal ...

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Project Architect

Bay Shore, NY · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Applicants must posses a strong knowledge of building construction documents and AutoCad Architecture and should be able to work independently as part of a team assembling a set of set of filing ...

New

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Project Architect

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$90K - $105K/yr

THE POSITION The Architectural Project Manager role involves working independently on multiple projects in collaboration with a fast-paced and creative team. With direction from the Principal ...

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Project Architect

Bay Shore, NY · On-site

$85K - $125K/yr

Applicants must posses a strong knowledge of building construction documents and AutoCad Architecture and should be able to work independently as part of a team assembling a set of set of filing ...

New

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The ideal candidate combines strong architectural design and technical expertise with the ability to independently lead projects, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, communicate effectively with ...

New

Showing results 41-60

Independent Architect information

See salary details

$46.5K

$128.8K

$201.5K

How much do independent architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for independent architect in the United States is $128,756.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,000.00 and $166,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Independent Architect vs Architectural Designer?

AspectIndependent ArchitectArchitectural Designer
CredentialsLicensed architect, professional certificationTypically not licensed, may have design degrees
Work EnvironmentSelf-employed, firm owner, or freelanceDesign firms, studios, or in-house teams
Industry UsageDesigns and oversees construction projectsFocuses on conceptual design and planning

Independent Architects are licensed professionals responsible for project design and oversight, often working independently or owning firms. Architectural Designers usually focus on conceptual work without licensure, often employed in design studios. The main difference lies in licensing, responsibilities, and scope of work.

Can an independent architect work independently?

Yes, an independent architect can work independently by managing their own projects, clients, and schedules. They typically need relevant licensure, strong design skills, and proficiency with architectural software to operate without direct employer oversight.

How much do independent architects make?

Independent architects' earnings vary based on experience, location, and project scope, but they typically charge hourly rates ranging from $50 to $150 or more, or project fees that can range from several thousand to hundreds of thousands of dollars. Successful independent architects often need strong design skills, client management, and business acumen to maintain steady income.
More about Independent Architect jobs
Infographic showing various Independent Architect job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $128,756 per year, or $61.9 per hour.

$80K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Life

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

About S9 Architecture

S9 Architecture is a 55+ person design practice grounded in modern contextualism-believing that architecture must engage its cultural, social, and environmental surroundings with intelligence and care. Our work spans a broad range of project types throughout New York City and across North America, including multifamily residential (100% affordable, market-rate rental, and luxury condominium), mixed-use developments, office and workplace design, adaptive reuse and repositioning, and cultural and institutional projects.

We are an open studio that encourages conversation, curiosity, and shared growth. Design direction is led collaboratively by our leadership but evolves through meaningful input and disciplined contributions from all levels. We value teaching, mentorship, and supportive critique, and we operate as a meritocracy where thoughtful ideas and strong performance are recognized.

At our core, we believe architecture carries a profound responsibility to improve neighborhoods and enhance the daily lives of the people who live in, work in, and use our buildings. Many of our projects have been recognized for design excellence and for enriching the human experience.

We work in person, side by side, because design is a dialogue-and the studio is our shared classroom, workshop, and laboratory.

 

Intermediate Architect 

New York City | In-Studio

Position Overview

S9 is seeking an Intermediate Architect to contribute to the design and delivery of complex urban projects while growing into increasing levels of responsibility within the studio.

This role is structured for architects with 5-10 years of experience who are ready to move from strong execution into active project ownership. You will work closely with Project Architects, Design Principals, and consultant teams to develop design ideas, coordinate technical systems, and translate design intent into built work.

You will be part of S9's open studio environment, where collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning shape how we work.  Design direction is guided by leadership and strengthened through the disciplined contributions of the full team-this role is an opportunity to grow through that process.

What You Will Do

Design Contribution

  • Contribute to design across all project phases, from concept through construction
  • Advance design intent through drawings, models, and iterative studies
  • Participate in internal design reviews and contribute to presentations

Technical Development + Coordination

  • Develop and coordinate drawing packages in Revit across DD and CD phases for projects ranging from 50,000 SF-1M+ SF.
  • Coordinate with consultants (structural, MEP, facade, interiors, landscape) to develop integrated, buildable solutions.
  • Apply zoning, building code, and accessibility requirements to project work.
  • Assist in resolving technical challenges while maintaining alignment with design intent.

Ownership + Growth in Responsibility

As you grow within the role, you will:

  • Take ownership of defined portions of projects (unit layouts, facade systems, coordination packages, etc.)
  • Lead coordination efforts for assigned scopes with increasing independence
  • Mentor junior team members and contribute to team organization and workflow
  • Participate in site visits and construction administration processes

Qualifications

  • 5-10 years of professional experience (post-graduate)
  • Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)
  • Strong proficiency in Revit
  • Working knowledge of zoning, building codes, and construction documentation
  • Ability to contribute to both design thinking and technical execution
  • Strong organizational, communication, and collaborative skills

Preferred:

  • Experience on NYC projects, particularly large-scale multi-family residential or mixed-use
  • Familiarity with Rhino, Enscape, and Adobe Creative Suite
  • Progress toward architectural licensure

What We Offer

  • Salary range $80K-$110K+
  • Full benefits package
  • Mentorship from senior leadership
  • Exposure to complex NYC projects and North American projects
  • A design-focused, collaborative studio environment

Why Join Us

  • Work on projects that shape neighborhoods and improve urban life
  • Grow from contributor to project leader through real responsibility
  • Learn through direct collaboration in an open, engaged studio
  • Strengthen both design and technical expertise across all project phases
  • Be part of practice that values rigor, curiosity, and continuous development

To Apply: Please submit a resume and portfolio of work demonstrating and documenting independent work.  Submissions without a work sample will not be reviewed.

S9 Architecture is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, sexual orientation, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.