Designer (Level 1) in Cambridge

About us

For more than three decades, KPMB Architects has evolved in response to a changing world and worked to change it for the better. Guided by our purpose and anchored by our values, KPMB crafts design solutions that catalyze positive change.

As a full-service practice working across Canada and the United States, we provide expertise in building design, interior design, master planning, workplace strategy, project management, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable design. KPMB has designed and delivered projects totaling more than 31 million square feet in a diverse range of sectors, including education, healthcare, scientific research, arts and culture, government, corporate, hospitality, recreation, and mixed-use development.

With uncompromising rigor and close attention to the increasingly complex needs of the world around us, our diverse team devotes their expertise, passion, and creativity to solving today’s challenges and unlocking new opportunities for our clients and the communities we serve.

The role / What are we looking for?

KPMB is seeking a Designer (Level 1) with a passion for architecture, drawing, and design excellence to join our new office in Cambridge, Massachusetts. This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to architectural solutions that exemplify design excellence, while gaining valuable mentorship and exposure to the expertise of our accomplished senior team members. In this role, you will support project teams in the development of design concepts, drawings, and presentations and assist in the production of technical documentation under the supervision of senior team members.

The ideal candidate will possess foundational technical and design capabilities, with strong attention to detail and an understanding of the construction process. This role requires a natural orientation towards collaboration and teamwork, and the ability to work independently on deliverables.

Select key responsibilities:

Technical expertise and execution:

• Assist in producing detailed technical drawings using Revit and 3D models using Rhino to communicate design intent and support design development.
• Applyfoundational knowledge of building technology, assembly, construction methodology, and materials application to support project execution.
• Incorporate knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, and architectural standards into design documentation, with oversight from senior team members.
• Support the development of design layouts by conducting research, analyzing spatial planning and occupancy studies, and organizing relevant data to support project objectives.
• Revise and refine drawings based on feedback, including redlines, field measurements, and documentation of existing site conditions.
• Follow BIM standards and practice requirements.
• Participate in design discussions, contributing your ideas, building confidence in your contributions, and engaging thoughtfully with feedback from senior team members.
• Demonstrate openness to feedback, proactively seek input from project leads, and regularly reflect on personal outputs to identify areas for growth.

Project coordination and support:

• Actively participate in team discussions, share progress, and navigate internal resources.
• Support project teams, including architects, engineers, and other consultants, on project coordination as required.
• Maintain project documentation and organization of project files, ensuring accuracy and accessibility.
• Translate project goals into actionable priorities and consistently demonstrate understanding of your responsibilities in achieving successful outcomes.
• Apply foundational understanding of risk in design decisions by monitoring work for compliance with constructability, code requirements, and consultant coordination.
• Deliver work that meets established deadlines and quality standards to support team accountability and minimize project risk.

Innovation and sustainability

• Stay informed about industry trends and technical innovations, cultivating curiosity and a habit of continuous learning to help contribute fresh perspectives and grow your technical knowledge.
• Develop understanding of sustainable design practices and how they are best applied to project work, adhering to the environmental standards of both individual projects and the firm.
• Participate in post-project reviews to learn from project outcomes and contribute to continuous improvement.

Candidate profile & qualifications

• Bachelor’s and master’s degree in architectural studies.
• Up to 2 years of experience in an architectural design role, including internships and co-op placements.
• Working proficiency in current versions of Revit, BIM programs, Bluebeam, MS Office, Adobe Creative Cloud, and 3D visualization software.
• Foundational skills in producing working drawings and renderings.
• Knowledge of building technology and assembly, construction methodology, and materials application as it relates to functional design.
• Familiarity with the Massachusetts State Building Code (MSBC) and the International Code Council (ICC).
• Demonstrated participation in firm/academic committees, team-building, and cultural initiatives.
• A portfolio that demonstrates care and attention to detail.
• Possesses curiosity to learn and develop, resourcefulness, and the self-awareness required to know when to check-in and ask for help.
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills.
• Experience working collaboratively in a team environment as well as independently.
• Ability to prioritize workload, while managing competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Why work with us

Founded in 1987, KPMB Architects has evolved a diverse portfolio of architectural projects with a focus on building healthy, vibrant cities and communities. KPMB has grown to 130+ employees and is recognized for its highly collaborative, supportive staff possessing a wide variety of experience and education. Some of our team members began their careers with the firm and have grown to become leaders, while others have joined at various points in their careers and bring new ideas and approaches. We provide a learning environment where teaching, mentoring, and collaboration are an essential part of our DNA.

At KPMB, there are many opportunities to share your skills, get involved in firm activities outside of project work, and contribute to initiatives that give back.

KPMB is committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate and serve. KPMB Architects is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected status.

If you require any accommodation or assistance during the recruitment process, please let us know when you submit your application. KPMB is committed to the full inclusion of all qualified individuals. As part of this commitment, we will ensure that persons with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process.