Architect at Cushing Terrell – Seattle, Washington

Position Description

As a Senior Commercial Project Architect, you will play a key role in shaping impactful, large-scale commercial environments, working both independently and alongside other talented architects and project managers to bring complex, high-visibility projects to life. This position is ideal for a creative, forward-thinking architect who thrives on solving design challenges and translating bold ideas into buildable, high-performing spaces.

You will lead the development of innovative design concepts across a variety of commercial project types, contributing to both interior and exterior architectural solutions. This role is responsible for guiding projects from early visioning through technical documentation, ensuring design intent is carried through every phase.

You will actively engage with clients and internal teams to analyze project goals, navigate constraints, and deliver thoughtful, forward-looking architectural solutions. This position requires a strong balance of creativity and technical expertise, with involvement in developing, modifying, and reviewing construction documents, resolving complex technical challenges, and supporting successful project delivery.

Position Salary Range*

The expected salary range for this position is $100,000 to $135,000 annually.

Required Qualifications**

• Accredited professional degree in Architecture
• 15+ years of post-graduate professional experience
• Current architect license/registration
• Demonstrated experience in both interior and exterior architectural document development
• Proven experience permitting projects within the City of Seattle and surrounding jurisdictions
• Excellent verbal, written and visual communication skills
• Ability to build strong client relationships, lead consultant teams, and take responsibility for project delivery including fees, budget, staffing, and billing
  Ability to define and drive project milestones, facilitate project meetings, and mentor team members
• Strong working knowledge of Revit, Project Management Software, Adobe Suite, Microsoft Office Suite, Bluebeam, and Outlook Preferred Qualifications**

Preferred Qualifications**

• Experience with Seattle permitting, City of Seattle Codes, and Washington State Codes is desired
• LEED Accredited is a plus
• A passion for creative, collaborative, client-focused design
• A talent for balancing graceful communication between Cushing Terrell teams and our clients

Did you know that some people hold back on applying to jobs if they dont meet 100% of the listed requirements? We dont want you to hold back! If you check most of the qualifications above and believe you could successfully do the work, we encourage you to apply!

Position Responsibilities***

• Lead the design and technical development of large-scale commercial projects from concept through construction
• Develop and oversee architectural documentation for both interior and exterior building systems
• Navigate permitting processes, particularly within the Seattle area, ensuring compliance with local codes and regulations
• Direct architectural teams and coordinate closely with engineering disciplines on complex, multidisciplinary projects
• Lead project documentation efforts with deep expertise in contract documents, specifications, shop drawings, and submittal reviews
• Delegate effectively, mentor team members, and maintain strong QA/QC processes across all project phases
• Contribute to creative design solutions while ensuring technical feasibility and alignment with project goals
• Provide construction administration support, including responding to RFIs, reviewing submittals, and conducting site observations
• Understand and manage construction costs, budgeting, and value engineering strategies
• Organize and lead meetings with internal teams, clients, and external partners
  
  
• Ensure design intent is maintained throughout construction by reviewing contractor work and documentation
• Foster a collaborative team environment while supporting the development of emerging professionals
• Participate in or lead technically complex projects, applying strong knowledge of applicable codes and standards
• Utilize design and documentation tools such as SketchUp, Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite
• Position may grow to include supervisory responsibilities including training, assigning, and directing work, reviewing performance, rewarding and disciplining team members, addressing complaints and resolving problems in accordance with company policies and applicable laws

Working at Cushing Terrell

Cushing Terrell is a multidisciplinary design firm with 17 offices and more than 500 team members who bring together their expertise to deliver holistic built environments. Leveraging our influence as designers, we work to create sustainable systems and spaces that help people live their best lives.

Why Cushing Terrell

At Cushing Terrell, we empower creative designers to discover imaginative, responsible, first-of-their kind environments. But more than that, we support a strong, cohesive team from our design professionals to our business operations staff. Together, we champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging placing people at the center of our practice, thus our tagline, design meets you.

Together, we find joy in uncovering imaginative solutions for the people who work here, the people we work for, and the planet as a whole.

We offer a competitive benefits package, work opportunities in a variety of locations and markets, and a company culture that celebrates all the unique viewpoints and personalities that make up our talented team. View our Employee Benefits Guide for more information.

Things to Note

*Actual pay will be determined based on the candidates years of experience, licensure status, location, level of proficiency, and other job-related factors (as permitted by law). This position is also eligible for an annual performance bonus.

**Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis. Cushing Terrell will not sponsor applicants for work visas.

***The majority of the time, a person in this role will be sitting in an office with limited physical requirements. This may require individuals to bend, stretch, twist, and reach.

Cushing Terrell is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws and ordinances. Contact 406.248.7455 if you require assistance or accommodation during the employment application process.

Note to recruitment agencies: Cushing Terrell does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firms or agencies. Any resume submitted to any employee of Cushing Terrell without a prior written search agreement will be considered unsolicited and the property of Cushing Terrell.