Lead schematic design through construction documents using strong technical/BIM skills, graphic storytelling, and sustainable, human-centered design. Prepare presentations, evaluate design alternatives, coordinate with consultants, mentor staff, ensure code and construction compliance, and support marketing and client relationships.
Perkins&Will's North Carolina is Studio is seeking a design-driven Project Designer with 8-10 years of experience to guide projects from schematic design through construction documents. You'll apply strong technical and BIM skills, use graphic storytelling to advance project scope, and collaborate with teams and clients to deliver sustainable, human-centered design.
Typical Years of Requisite Experience: 8-10+ years
Professional Licensure: Preferred
Common and Baseline Responsibilities
- Understands and consistently executes all aspects of the design process and project complexities to proactively contribute to the overall success of the team while adhering to firm and project goals and standards of excellence in design, execution, and living design.
- Prepares schematic designs that optimize design solutions and plans with responsibility for presentation drawings, models, and narratives.
- Understands overall project goals and constraints, including client values, construction and design budget limitations, and schedule requirements.
- Evaluates design alternatives based on site and code requirements.
- Applies knowledge of building technology, building materials, construction methods, costs, and code to the design process.
- Understands and responds to technical implications and design decisions.
- Prepares client presentation packages, external publications, and award submissions.
- Participates in marketing opportunities and develops successful client relationships for continuing business.
- Uses graphic storytelling to advance the project delivery and scope.
- Reviews work for accuracy, omissions, legibility, and for document compliance in accordance with the Project Delivery Manual.
- Participates and collaborates in internal design reviews, charettes, and pin-ups and external community engagements.
- Demonstrates strong and effective communication and direction which inspires high team performance and design ideas.
- Mentors staff.
- Coordinates effectively with partners and consultants throughout the schematic and design development phases.
High-level Summary of Critical, Baseline Technical Skills and Certifications
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesProficiencies
- BIM
- Building codes
- Site analysis
- Preliminary design studies
- Contract documents
- Field measurements
- Life safety requirements
- Specifications
- Construction contract administration
- Graphic storytelling
- Sketching
Software
- Advanced knowledge of 2D/3D production software
- Advanced Revit
- Conceptual modeling tools such as Rhino and Grasshopper
- Microsoft Office / Adobe Suite
- Visualization tools such as Enscape and VRay
- Physical modeling tools such as 3D Printing and Laser cutting
- Presentation tools such as InDesign and Photoshop
- Environmental Analysis software such Ladybug and Climate Studio
Licensure/Certifications/Education
- LEED GA within 6 months of hire
- Professional Accreditation in one area of Living Design that interests you: LEED AP with Specialty, BREEAM AP, WELL AP, SITES AP, Passive House Institute Certified Passive House Consultant/Designer CPHC/CPHD, or ILFI Living Future Accreditation
- Preparing for ARE and active involvement in AXP
- Bachelor's degree in architecture or related discipline required
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.
Similar Jobs
Consulting • Design
Leads mechanical design for HVAC, plumbing, and fire protection systems in commercial, multifamily, retail, and related building projects. Produces technical plans, specifications, calculations, and code-compliant designs; manages project planning, budgets, schedules, quality control, bidding, and construction administration. Collaborates with clients, architects, engineers, and project managers, while mentoring staff and supporting energy-efficient, high-performance design initiatives.
Top Skills:
Bim SoftwareFire Protection SystemsHvac Load Calculation SoftwareHvac SystemsExcelMicrosoft Office SuiteMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft WordPlumbing Systems
Real Estate
Leads interior design for complex commercial real estate projects, managing the full design process from concept through construction documentation. Produces space plans, presentations, drawings, and specifications; coordinates consultants and vendors; reviews deliverables; gathers stakeholder requirements; and supports project goals, budgets, and occupant outcomes.
Top Skills:
Revit
Database
Lead and deliver architectural designs from concept through entitlements and construction documents. Mentor junior designers, manage multiple complex projects, liaise with clients and jurisdictions, ensure code and zoning compliance, perform site feasibility and visits, and champion technical innovation and Revit-based production.
Top Skills:
Revit
What you need to know about the Charlotte Tech Scene
Ranked among the hottest tech cities in 2024 by CompTIA, Charlotte is quickly cementing its place as a major U.S. tech hub. Home to more than 90,000 tech workers, the city’s ecosystem is primed for continued growth, fueled by billions in annual funding from heavyweights like Microsoft and RevTech Labs, which has created thousands of fintech jobs and made the city a go-to for tech pros looking for their next big opportunity.
Key Facts About Charlotte Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 90,859; 6.5% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: Lowe’s, Bank of America, TIAA, Microsoft, Honeywell
- Key Industries: Fintech, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, e-commerce
- Funding Landscape: $3.1 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (CED)
- Notable Investors: Microsoft, Google, Falfurrias Management Partners, RevTech Labs Foundation
- Research Centers and Universities: University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Northeastern University, North Carolina Research Campus
