ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Retail Architecture Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsRetail Architecture Jobs

Retail Architecture information

See salary details

$10

$15

$18

How much do retail architecture jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for retail architecture in the United States is $15.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Retail Architecture vs Retail Design?

AspectRetail ArchitectureRetail Design
FocusStructural planning, building layout, and overall architectural design of retail spacesInterior aesthetics, visual merchandising, and customer experience within retail environments
CredentialsArchitectural licenses, degree in architecture or related fieldDesign background, interior design certifications, or related experience
Work EnvironmentArchitectural firms, construction sites, large retail chainsDesign studios, retail stores, branding agencies
Industry UsageInvolved in the structural and spatial planning of retail buildingsFocuses on interior layout, visual appeal, and customer engagement

Retail Architecture primarily deals with the structural and spatial planning of retail spaces, ensuring functional and compliant building designs. Retail Design focuses on interior aesthetics, visual merchandising, and creating engaging customer experiences within those spaces. Both roles are essential in retail development but emphasize different aspects of the retail environment.

What are some typical challenges faced by professionals in Retail Architecture, and how are they addressed?

Retail Architects often encounter challenges such as balancing brand identity with functional design, meeting tight construction timelines, and adapting to evolving retail trends. They collaborate closely with clients, engineers, and interior designers to ensure spaces are both visually appealing and operationally efficient. Staying informed about materials, sustainability requirements, and local building codes is essential. Successful professionals utilize strong project management skills and clear communication to navigate these complexities and deliver spaces that enhance the customer experience.

Is it hard to get hired as an architect?

Getting hired as a retail architect can be competitive, often requiring a relevant degree, a strong portfolio, and experience with retail design projects. Certifications such as LEED or NCARB can improve job prospects, and familiarity with design software like AutoCAD or Revit is typically expected.

What is a retail architect?

A retail architect is a professional who designs and plans the physical layout and aesthetic of retail stores to optimize customer experience and sales. They combine architectural skills with knowledge of retail branding, space utilization, and construction standards, often using design software like AutoCAD or Revit. Retail architects collaborate with clients, store planners, and contractors to create functional and appealing retail environments.

What is retail architecture?

Retail architecture is the specialized field of designing and planning physical spaces for retail businesses such as stores, shopping malls, boutiques, and supermarkets. These architects focus on creating environments that enhance the customer experience, promote brand identity, and maximize sales. They consider factors such as store layout, lighting, signage, and accessibility to ensure the space is functional, attractive, and inviting. Retail architects often collaborate with interior designers, branding experts, and retail strategists to deliver spaces that meet both aesthetic and commercial objectives.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Retail Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Retail Architect, you need strong design skills, a background in architecture (often with a professional degree and licensure), and a solid understanding of retail environments. Proficiency with CAD software, 3D modeling tools like Revit or SketchUp, and familiarity with building codes and regulations are essential. Creativity, attention to detail, and effective communication with clients and multidisciplinary teams make someone stand out in this position. These skills ensure that retail spaces are both functional and visually appealing, meeting business objectives and enhancing customer experiences.

What is the highest paying architectural job?

In retail architecture, senior roles such as Lead Retail Architect or Design Director tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding six figures. These positions require extensive experience, strong project management skills, and proficiency with design software and client coordination.

What is the burnout rate for architects?

The burnout rate for architects, including those in retail architecture, is estimated to be around 30-50%, often due to long hours, tight deadlines, and high project demands. Factors such as workload, work environment, and work-life balance influence burnout levels in the profession.
More about Retail Architecture jobs
What cities are hiring for Retail Architecture jobs? Cities with the most Retail Architecture job openings:
What states have the most Retail Architecture jobs? States with the most job openings for Retail Architecture jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Retail Architecture jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Retail Architecture jobs are:
Retail Architecture jobs near you
Infographic showing various Retail Architecture job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 61% Full Time, 37% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,808 per year, or $15.8 per hour.
Project Manager, Retail Architecture & Design

Project Manager, Retail Architecture & Design

Ware Malcomb

Seattle, WA • On-site

$90K - $125K/yr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to join a growth-oriented team where creativity meets innovation? At Ware Malcomb, we are a dynamic and forward-thinking design firm committed to pushing the boundaries. Our team-oriented, collaborative approach ensures that every project is a blend of visionary design, seamless project delivery, and we are actively engaged with both the community and the industry. Discover our vibrant culture to get an inside look into life at Ware Malcomb and the programs we offer. https://waremalcomb.com/life-at-ware-malcomb/ 

As a Project Manager at Ware Malcomb, you will deliver innovative design projects to diverse clients through all phases. You will lead internal and external teams, be financially responsible for projects by adhering to budgets and workplans and oversee the development of contract documents. As the primary client contact, your leadership and exceptional client service ensures project success.
 
This position would work on retail projects for diverse corporate clients on projects nationwide.
Your Role
  • Plan, schedule, conduct, and coordinate phases of the project. Typical phases include conceptual, schematic, design development, construction document and construction services.
  • Prepare the project schedule.
  • Discuss the project health, both administratively and technically, with their operations leader.
  • Alert the Business Operations Manager to any changing project conditions that need to be elevated to office leadership.
  • Maintain and weekly update the project planner for all phases of projects to discuss during weekly staffing meetings with studio leadership.
  • Issue add services and get them approved in a timely manner prior to starting work on any additional scope.
  • Utilize Ware Malcomb’s resource groups for design, preparation of design and construction documents.
  • Provide construction services (site visits, review shop drawings, etc.)
  • Coordinate with the contracts team for the successful execution of the project contract.
  • Represent Ware Malcomb at required jurisdiction public design review or development approval meetings and project presentations when required.
  • Assemble the consultant team for the project; Identify scope of work, collect fees, select consultants, and facilitate contracts.
  • Assist the studio leader by being a resource to mentor junior project members.
  • Assist in writing and reviewing proposals and the consultant team with the studio leader.
  • Coordinate with the accounting team regarding accounts receivable, consultants payable, and invoicing.
  • Coordinate the project consultants through all phases of the project.
  • Work with the QC studio, peer reviewer, or dedicated Project Architect to review all phases of the contract documents prior to issuance.
  • Assist the studio or office leader with marketing as requested to existing and new clients for repeat or new work.
Qualifications
  • 7+ years of experience in the field of Architecture
  • Experience working on retail projects strongly preferred 
  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
  • AutoCAD and Revit skills
  • Knowledge of Microsoft Project, Word, Excel, and Newforma
  • Thorough knowledge of building codes
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • Ability to coordinate a complete set of contract documents
The compensation range is $90k-$125k, plus benefits. Read more about Life at Ware Malcomb. 
The final agreed upon compensation is based on individual education, qualifications, experience, licensing, project specialty/complexity and work location. We may exceed the posted compensation range for candidates who surpass the posted requirements. At Ware Malcomb, certain roles are bonus eligible.  
This is a full-time, long-term position.
 
Established in 1972, Ware Malcomb is a dynamic, forward-thinking commercial real estate design firm providing professional architecture, interior design, civil engineering, branding, building measurement, structural engineering and MEP engineering services to clients throughout the world. With office locations throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Brazil, the firm specializes in the design of office, industrial, science & technology, healthcare, multifamily, retail, hospitality and public/institutional projects.
 
The firm is also ranked among the top 10 Architecture/Engineering firms in Engineering News-Record’s Top 500 Design Firms and the Top 30 Interior Design Firms in Interior Design magazine’s Top 100 Giants. For more information, visit waremalcomb.com.