What Does a Junior Architectural Designer Do?
A junior architectural designer assists in the development of architectural projects by creating drawings, renderings, and models under the supervision of licensed architects or senior designers. This entry-level role focuses on translating design concepts into visual formats using tools like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Junior designers help document existing conditions, draft schematic plans, and assemble design packages that guide client discussions and approvals.
While they are not yet licensed architects, junior designers play a key part in project execution and team coordination. They collaborate with project managers, engineers, and consultants to ensure technical accuracy and aesthetic alignment. This role is an important developmental step for professionals working toward architectural licensure, offering hands-on experience across all phases of design and documentation.
Looking to Hire a Junior Architectural Designer?
Speak with one of our recruiting experts today.
Junior Architectural Designer Core Responsibilities
- Draft floor plans, elevations, and construction details using CAD and BIM software
- Create 3D models, diagrams, and photorealistic renderings for design presentations
- Support design development and schematic design phases with research and sketches
- Assist in assembling drawing sets for permitting and construction documentation
- Participate in team meetings and contribute to design discussions
- Conduct site analysis and code research under guidance
- Help prepare materials boards and client presentation packages
- Maintain drawing and file organization across project phases
Required Skills and Qualifications
Hard skills
- Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite
- Ability to create 2D technical drawings and 3D models
- Familiarity with building codes, zoning, and ADA guidelines
- Experience with render engines such as Lumion, Enscape, or V-Ray
Soft skills
- Attention to visual detail and design accuracy
- Strong organizational and time management abilities
- Willingness to take feedback and learn through iteration
- Collaborative and professional communication in team settings
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture or related field required
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship or studio experience working on real-world projects
- Experience with LEED or sustainable design principles
- LEED Green Associate certification is a plus
- Familiarity with construction document standards and formatting
- Interest in pursuing architectural licensure (AXP hours, ARE prep)
National Average Salary
Junior architectural designer salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for a Junior Architectural Designer is:
$58,364
Sample Job Description Templates for Junior Architectural Designers
Residential Junior Architectural Designer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Residential Junior Architectural Designer to support single-family and multi-family housing projects. This role focuses on assisting senior architects in drafting floor plans, researching zoning regulations, and producing 3D visualizations that align with residential codes and client expectations.
Responsibilities
- Draft architectural drawings for custom homes, renovations, and housing developments
- Develop 3D models and renderings for design presentations
- Assist with client material selections, finishes, and interior layout options
- Research local zoning, HOA guidelines, and building code requirements
- Support site analysis and feasibility studies for residential parcels
- Help prepare construction documentation under supervision
- Attend design reviews and incorporate feedback into updated plans
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and residential drafting standards
- Familiarity with IRC (International Residential Code)
- Ability to create detailed plans and elevations for permitting
Soft skills
- Strong attention to layout, proportion, and spatial flow
- Effective communicator with homeowners and design teams
- Organized and able to manage multiple project timelines
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture or related discipline
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working with custom home builders or local residential architects
- Exposure to green building standards or energy-efficient housing
Commercial Junior Architectural Designer
Position Overview
We are seeking a Commercial Junior Architectural Designer to support office, retail, mixed-use, or institutional projects. This position includes drafting architectural documentation, assisting with space planning, and producing visual materials to support client and regulatory approvals.
Responsibilities
- Create floor plans, RCPs, and exterior elevations using CAD/BIM tools
- Collaborate on commercial space planning and ADA compliance
- Develop diagrams, presentation boards, and massing studies
- Support code compliance checks for IBC, ADA, and local ordinances
- Participate in client presentations and design charettes
- Prepare construction document sets for permitting and bidding
Requirements
Hard skills
- Knowledge of Revit, AutoCAD, and commercial construction standards
- Familiarity with fire code, egress planning, and commercial ADA requirements
- Ability to work within municipal zoning and overlay districts
Soft skills
- Team-oriented with professional communication skills
- Analytical thinker with an eye for usability and traffic flow
- Detail-driven with strong organization across project phases
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture required
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience supporting commercial TI, ground-up, or renovation projects
- Understanding of sustainable materials or WELL building practices
Interior Architecture Junior Designer
Position Overview
We are hiring an Interior Architecture Junior Designer to contribute to the spatial and aesthetic development of interior environments. This role supports programming, material research, technical drawing production, and design visualization for commercial and residential interiors.
Responsibilities
- Assist in drafting interior layouts, finishes plans, and millwork details
- Support space planning based on client needs and building constraints
- Source and organize finish samples and FF&E selections
- Create 3D visualizations, diagrams, and mood boards for concept development
- Document specifications for lighting, furniture, and built-in elements
- Attend site surveys and help coordinate field measurements
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp
- Familiarity with interior detailing and materials documentation
- Experience with Adobe InDesign and Photoshop for presentations
Soft skills
- Strong eye for proportion, lighting, and materials
- Collaborative design approach with excellent presentation abilities
- Flexibility and responsiveness to feedback
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in interior architecture, architecture, or related field
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience preparing design boards and materials binders
- Interest in WELL, LEED, or hospitality interiors
Urban Design Junior Architectural Designer
Position Overview
We are looking for an Urban Design Junior Architectural Designer to support planning efforts for public spaces, districts, and infrastructure-adjacent developments. This role assists with schematic planning, spatial diagrams, zoning research, and the production of large-scale site layouts and renderings.
Responsibilities
- Contribute to urban planning diagrams, street sections, and massing studies
- Assist with public space designs such as plazas, parks, and mixed-use districts
- Perform site research including land use, traffic patterns, and regulatory overlays
- Prepare presentations for stakeholders, municipalities, and public forums
- Help develop concept-level master plans and graphic storytelling
- Collaborate with civil engineers, planners, and landscape architects
Requirements
Hard skills
- Proficiency in GIS, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite
- Ability to create detailed site plans and large-scale visualizations
- Familiarity with zoning codes, urban typologies, and planning terms
Soft skills
- Conceptual thinker with strong graphic communication skills
- Interest in equitable design and sustainable cities
- Comfortable presenting work in public or team settings
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture, urban design, or related field
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Studio or internship experience on campus planning, streetscapes, or city proposals
- Knowledge of Smart Growth, transit-oriented design, or form-based codes
Landscape Architecture Junior Designer
Position Overview
We are hiring a Landscape Architecture Junior Designer to support outdoor space design projects including parks, campuses, and commercial sites. This role assists in layout design, plant selection, environmental analysis, and 3D visualization of proposed landscapes.
Responsibilities
- Assist in site analysis, grading plans, and planting layouts
- Draft hardscape and landscape design details using CAD/BIM
- Support stormwater management strategies and ecological planning
- Create presentation materials including renderings, diagrams, and planting palettes
- Research native plants, soil conditions, and regional climate influences
- Help prepare documentation for permitting and construction
Requirements
Hard skills
- Familiarity with AutoCAD, Rhino, and GIS tools
- Basic understanding of grading, drainage, and planting design
- Experience with Adobe Creative Suite and Lumion or similar rendering software
Soft skills
- Sensitivity to ecology and user experience in outdoor environments
- Strong visual storytelling and graphic layout skills
- Collaborative attitude and eagerness to grow in the profession
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture or related discipline
Certifications
- None required
Preferred Qualifications
- Internship experience with a landscape architecture or urban design firm
- Interest in sustainable design, native plants, or ecological restoration