Architect

About AltusWorks

AltusWorks is a certified Disadvantaged and Woman-Owned (D/WBE) architectural design firm specializing in historic preservation, building science, and adaptive reuse. Founded in 2003 by Ellen Stoner, the firm is built on the belief that existing buildings are renewable assets that strengthen communities through thoughtful revitalization.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Architect with a minimum 10-15 years’ professional experience and strong design and client relation skills to lead architectural design, rehabilitation, and improvement projects. This role combines technical leadership, project management, design expertise, and client collaboration to support the continued operation and improvement of transportation and other public-sector projects throughout the region.

Project Management & Technical Leadership

• Lead architectural projects involving transit facilities, stations, maintenance buildings, and public infrastructure improvements
• Manage project scope, schedule, budget, and deliverables while coordinating with clients, consultants, and project teams
• Develop creative design solutions that address accessibility, functionality, durability, and long-term facility needs
• Direct the preparation of architectural drawings, specifications, reports, and construction documentation

Design Lead

• Strong design skills
• Ability to develop design concepts and engage others to carry out designs.
• Balance the design and management of overlapping and concurrent projects.

Project & Client Coordination

• Past experience on transit projects or public-sector project types
• Coordinate with complex client agencies, including transit authorities and public-sector clients
• Support projects requiring compliance with agency standards and public infrastructure guidelines
• Maintain strong client relationships through effective communication, responsiveness, and technical expertise
• Participate in project pursuits, proposal development, and interview presentations
• Contribute to the firm’s collaborative “seller-doer” culture

Design & Documentation

• Prepare and review architectural design and construction documents, details, and technical specifications
• Coordinate with engineering disciplines and specialty consultants to deliver complete project documentation
• Review construction progress and support quality control during project implementation

Team Leadership

• Mentor architectural staff
• Direct project design, team task assignments and oversee quality, schedule, and budget alignment
• Promote a collaborative approach to problem-solving and project delivery

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture
• Architect license in the state of Illinois
• 10 to 15 years minimum of architectural experience, including demonstrated successful design and project management skills and responsibilities
• Experience with transportation, transit, rail, or public infrastructure projects preferred
• Experience working with CTA, Metra or similar public-sector clients preferred
• Strong knowledge of building systems, accessibility requirements, and renovation of existing facilities
• Experience preparing design and construction documents, technical reports, and project deliverables
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Adobe InDesign, and Microsoft Office
• Excellent communication, coordination, and presentation skills

What We’re Looking For

We value professionals who are:

• Curious and detail-oriented
• Collaborative and dependable
• Experienced in navigating complex public-sector projects
• Strong problem-solvers with a big-picture mindset

Pay: $100,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Will you now, or in the future, require sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g. H-1B visa status)?

Education:

• Bachelor's (Required)

Experience:

• Architectural: 10 years (Required)
• Transit/Transportation Architecture: 3 years (Preferred)
• AutoCAD: 5 years (Preferred)
• Revit: 5 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Illinois Architect License (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Chicago, IL 60661 (Required)

Work Location: In person