ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Lead Architectural Designer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gralph Architect

Architectural Designer

Green Brook, NJ · On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Lead architectural deliverables on projects, partnering with Design Director and project team for all project phases, including conceptual designs, presentations, schematic design, design development ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer

Tulsa, OK

WHAT YOULL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer

Tulsa, OK · On-site

WHAT YOU'LL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer

Tulsa, OK

WHAT YOU'LL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer

Tulsa, OK

WHAT YOU'LL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer

Tulsa, OK

WHAT YOU'LL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

Gensler

Architectural Designer

Raleigh, NC · On-site

Lead architectural deliverables on projects, partnering with Design Directors and project teams for all project phases, including conceptual designs, presentations, schematic design, design ...

Gensler

Architectural Designer

Raleigh, NC

Lead architectural deliverables on projects, partnering with Design Directors and project teams for all project phases, including conceptual designs, presentations, schematic design, design ...

Wood Plc

Architectural Designer

Philadelphia, PA · On-site +1

Overview / Responsibilities Architectural Designer Wood is currently seeking an Architectural ... Keeps Lead Architect informed of project status and challenges. * Attends conferences/workshops to ...

Cyntergy

Architectural Designer (Tulsa)

Tulsa, OK · On-site

WHAT YOU'LL DO As an Architectural Designer, you will assist a Lead Architect with a variety of duties, such as creating computer models, drafting, conducting code research, and applying process ...

RODE Architects

Architectural Designer

Boston, MA · On-site

We share a passion to lead neighborhoods, in Boston and beyond, into the future by combining ... We are excited to open an opportunity for a full-time Architectural Designer to join the team in ...

RODE Architects Inc.

Architectural Designer

Boston, MA · On-site

$65K - $75K/yr

We share a passion to lead neighborhoods, in Boston and beyond, into the future by combining ... We are excited to open an opportunity for a full-time Architectural Designer to join the team in ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsLead Architectural Designer Jobs

Lead Architectural Designer information

See salary details

$42K

$91.2K

$157K

How much do lead architectural designer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead architectural designer in the United States is $91,161.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $66,500.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a lead architect?

To become a lead architectural designer, one typically needs a professional degree in architecture, such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s, along with several years of experience in architectural design and project management. Licensure as a registered architect is usually required, and developing strong leadership, communication, and technical skills is essential for advancing to a lead role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Architectural Designer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Architectural Designer, you need expertise in architectural design, project management, and a relevant degree such as a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture, often accompanied by licensure. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, as well as familiarity with building codes and sustainability standards, is essential. Strong leadership, creative problem-solving, and clear communication distinguish top performers in this role. These skills ensure innovative, compliant, and successful project delivery while effectively guiding teams and collaborating with clients.

How much money does an architect designer make?

An architectural designer's salary varies based on experience, location, and firm size, but typically ranges from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Senior or lead architectural designers with advanced skills and certifications can earn over $100,000 per year. Compensation often includes benefits and opportunities for project management and design software proficiency.

What does a Lead Architectural Designer do?

A Lead Architectural Designer is responsible for overseeing the design and development of building projects from concept through completion. They lead a team of architects and designers, ensuring that projects meet aesthetic, functional, and safety standards while staying within budget and timeline constraints. Their duties often include collaborating with clients, engineers, and contractors, developing design concepts, creating detailed plans and drawings, and supervising the design process. The Lead Architectural Designer also helps resolve complex design challenges and ensures compliance with local building codes and regulations.

What is a lead designer in architecture?

A lead architectural designer is a senior professional responsible for overseeing the design process of architectural projects, coordinating with clients, engineers, and contractors. They develop design concepts, create detailed drawings, and ensure projects meet aesthetic, functional, and regulatory standards, often using tools like AutoCAD or Revit. Strong leadership, communication, and technical skills are essential for this role.

What is the highest paid architect job?

The highest paid architect roles are often senior positions such as Principal Architect or Design Director in large firms, with salaries exceeding $150,000 annually. These roles typically require extensive experience, leadership skills, and advanced knowledge of design software and building codes.

What are some common challenges faced by Lead Architectural Designers when managing multidisciplinary project teams?

Lead Architectural Designers often coordinate with professionals from various disciplines, such as structural engineers, interior designers, and contractors. A common challenge is aligning diverse perspectives and ensuring clear communication to keep the project on schedule and within budget. Effective collaboration requires strong organizational skills and the ability to mediate between different priorities, all while maintaining the project's design integrity. Building trust and fostering a collaborative environment are essential for overcoming these hurdles and achieving successful project outcomes.

What is the difference between Lead Architectural Designer vs Architectural Designer?

AspectLead Architectural DesignerArchitectural Designer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Architecture, licensure often preferredBachelor's or Master's in Architecture, licensure often preferred
Work EnvironmentLeads design teams, collaborates with clients, oversees project developmentSupports design development, prepares drawings, assists in project tasks
Industry UsageUsed in firms for senior design roles, project leadershipUsed across all levels for design support and drafting

The Lead Architectural Designer typically holds a senior role, overseeing design teams and managing project development, while the Architectural Designer focuses on supporting design tasks and drafting. Both roles require similar credentials but differ in responsibilities and leadership scope within architectural projects.

More about Lead Architectural Designer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Architectural Designer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Architectural Designer job openings:
What job categories do people searching Lead Architectural Designer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Lead Architectural Designer jobs are:
Lead Architectural Designer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Architectural Designer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,161 per year, or $43.8 per hour.

Architectural Designer

Gralph Architect

Green Brook, NJ • On-site

$60K - $80K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job description
GRA Design Studio | Gregory Ralph, Architect is seeking a highly skilled Architectural Designer to join our dynamic team. We provide architectural and design services for commercial and residential projects, focusing on custom design. As an Architectural Designer, you will play a key role in designing and developing architectural projects. Join our dynamic and engaging team, supporting major national franchise brands such as Wingstop, Playa Bowls, Dave's Hot Chicken, Dunkin', Wonder, Bubbakoo's Burritos, Jersey Mike's Subs, and more. You will work closely with clients to understand their needs and preferences, and then create innovative and functional designs that align with their vision.
In this role, you will use your creative and technical skills to develop drawings, specifications, and other architectural documents. You will collaborate with architects, engineers, and other professionals to ensure that projects are completed successfully, on time, and within budget. You will also have the opportunity to participate in site visits and inspections to ensure that designs are being implemented accurately.
The ideal candidate for this position is knowledgeable in architecture and has a strong attention to detail. You should have excellent problem-solving abilities and be able to work well under pressure. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as you will be working closely with clients and other team members to bring projects to life.
Skills and Abilities
  • Lead architectural deliverables on projects, partnering with Design Director and project team for all project phases, including conceptual designs, presentations, schematic design, design development, construction documents and production.
  • Collaborate with design team, clients, consultants, contractors, regulatory agencies and other vendors to meet overall project objectives
  • Ability to focus on concurrent projects in various stages of development
  • Resolve complex design issues with innovative and practical solutions with ability to communicate design ideas and direction quickly
  • Produce graphic presentations, 3D renderings, and construction drawings
  • Assist in managing client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination
  • A quick learner with an ability to thrive in a fast-paced work environment
  • Excellent communication skills

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Architecture (Required)
  • Proficiency in REVIT (3+ years of working experience) (Required)
  • 3-5+ years of experience as an architectural designer on single family residential and commercial fit-outs (Quick Service Restaurants and/or custom commercial: Offices (General & Medical), Industrial/Warehousing, Retail, Salons and more)
  • Good working knowledge of US Building systems and Code, familiarity with Forte or Vitruvius a plus.
  • Ability to perform initial zoning analysis and familiarity with Building codes.
  • Familiarity with AutoCAD, Photoshop, Illustrator, In Design
  • Knowledge of Enscape a plus.

Benefits:
  • Health, dental, & vision insurance
  • Paid time off & Holidays
  • Career growth opportunities & professional development assistance (Amber Books subscription, additional PTO for ARE prep & testing)
  • Retirement plan (401K with employer contribution)
  • Collaborative team dynamic
  • Extracurricular activities (sports clubs, bowling leagues, etc) & company events
  • Wellness activities and benefit offerings
  • Flex scheduling
  • Hybrid work environment

Compensation package:
  • Bonus opportunities

Schedule:
  • 8 hour shift
  • Monday to Friday

Education:
  • Bachelors in Architecture (Required)

Experience:
  • 3-5+ years (Required)

Work Location: In person/Remote
Job Type: Full-time

Apply