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Design Professional II

Hamilton Anderson Associates, Detroit, MI, United States


Hamilton Anderson Associates (HAA) is a Detroit-based, architecture and interior design firm dedicated to creating spaces that honor history, strengthen communities, and reflect the people who use them. Our work spans cultural, civic, educational, and commercial projects, with a strong focus on collaboration, equity, and design excellence.

About the Role
The Design Professional II is an architectural team member responsible for supporting project teams through multiple phases of the design and construction process. Working under the guidance of Senior Design Staff, Project Architects, and Directors, this role contributes to programming, schematic design, design development, and construction documentation while developing technical and coordination skills. The Design Professional II will also assist with the development of project documentation, participate in team meetings, and support coordination with consultants, codes, and construction activities while continuing to build professional experience toward architectural licensure.

What You’ll Do

Design Development & Construction Documentation

Assist with programming activities including preparing functional relationship and adjacency diagrams

Conduct case study research and assist with documenting user needs and project requirements

Assist with documenting existing building conditions and site information

Prepare schematic design drawings, diagrams, and models under the supervision of senior team members

Prepare volume and area calculations to support early design studies

Prepare design development documentation based on approved schematic design under the supervision of senior team members

Prepare architectural plans, elevations, sections, and detailed construction drawings under the supervision of senior team members

Assist with preparation of outline specifications and construction specifications for smaller or less complex projects

Support coordination and cross-referencing of drawing sets and documentation to insure consistency between architectural and consultants documents during all phases of project development

Assist with reviewing design development and construction documents to identify inconsistencies in document packages

Project Coordination & Technical Support

Assist Project Architects and Project Managers with coordination of consultant work and project documentation

Investigate and summarize zoning and regulatory restrictions affecting project design

Research, evaluate, and summarize all applicable local, state, and federal building codes and regulations

Assist with identifying design adjustments required to meet regulatory requirements

Attend preliminary meetings with code officials and assist with documentation

Assist with coordination of input from public agencies, jurisdictional authorities, and consultants

Assist with research and evaluation of appropriate engineering systems

Support coordination and verification of available utilities

Assist in evaluating space requirements and associated system costs

Attend internal project meetings and contribute to team discussions

Bidding Support & Construction Administration

Assist with compiling project drawings and documentation to support bidding processes

Assist with completing bidding and contract forms

Review bids for completeness and accuracy under the supervision of senior team members

Assist with preparation of addenda and bulletins

Attend bid-opening meetings with senior staff or project managers

Attend on-site field visits and assist with preparation of field reports

Attend Owner–Architect–Contractor (OAC) meetings and assist with meeting documentation

Assist with review and coordination of shop drawings, samples, and submittals

Support responses to Requests for Information (RFIs)

Assist with punch-list preparation and completion for smaller or less complex projects

Research, Materials & Professional Development

Review product literature to identify appropriate materials based on performance, life‑cycle cost, and sustainability considerations

Prepare production sequence flow charts for consultants or clients on smaller projects when required

Attend Lunch & Learn programs and vendor presentations to stay informed on materials and building systems

Provide mentorship and guidance to high school and college interns

Participate in intern interviews and evaluation feedback when requested

Assist with preparation of design and marketing materials for the Marketing team

Support a collaborative studio environment by participating in design discussions and sharing knowledge with team members

What You Bring

Strong organizational, communication, and graphic presentation skills

Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Experience with design and visualization software such as Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, Envision, Rhino, and Lumion (preferred)

Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment and meet project deadline

Ability to work effectively and independently under the supervision of senior team members

Strong attention to detail and ability to perform essential duties with accuracy and consistency

Ability to interpret drawings, building codes, standards, and project documentation

Working knowledge of building design, materials, and construction processes

Ability to communicate effectively with team members, consultants, and project stakeholders

Education & Experience

Professional degree in Architecture (Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture) from an NCARB-accredited program

Two to four (2–4) years of professional architectural experience

Demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities associated with the Design Professional II role

Intention to establish an NCARB record and pursue Architectural Registration Examination (ARE) licensure

Legal authorization to work in the United States (required)

Benefits & Perks

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Life insurance and short-term disability coverage

401(k) retirement plan

Paid time off and firm holidays

Hybrid work schedule in accordance with firm policy

Equal Opportunity Employer Hamilton Anderson Associates is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability, genetics, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

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