Architectural Designer

Who are we

At Draftline, we deliver tailored architectural solutions with a client-first approach. We take the time to understand each project—balancing design, budget, and practical requirements to bring our clients’ vision to life.

From concept through to consent, we manage the full process. This includes architectural drawings, 3D renders, record drawings, and design amendments, along with coordinating engineers and specialists where needed.

We simplify the complex—handling council submissions, securing approvals, and ensuring all plans meet regulatory requirements. We also provide clear planning advice so clients understand what’s possible on their site.

Our goal is simple: make the process seamless and deliver build-ready outcomes that reflect our clients’ ideas, not ours.

About the role

Draftline is seeking an enthusiastic and talented Architectural Designer to join our team in Christchurch. This is an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse range of housing, residential, and light commercial projects, developing thoughtful and practical design solutions from initial concept through to building consent and construction.

In this role, you will play an important part in developing architectural designs that balance functionality, aesthetics, buildability, compliance, and client requirements. You will be involved throughout the design process, preparing high-quality architectural drawings and documentation and working closely with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal team members to bring projects from concept through to delivery.

We are looking for someone who combines strong design capability with solid technical knowledge, has excellent attention to detail, and can confidently manage multiple projects and competing priorities. You will take ownership of your work, proactively identify and resolve design and technical issues, and contribute to achieving high-quality outcomes for our clients.

As part of a collaborative and supportive team, you will have the opportunity to work on a variety of projects while continuing to develop your architectural and technical expertise. Experience with Archicad or Revit is essential, along with a strong understanding of the New Zealand Building Code, construction methodologies, and building consent requirements.

If you're a designer who enjoys creating practical, well-considered architectural solutions and wants to be part of a team where your ideas and expertise are valued, we'd love to hear from you.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will be a motivated and capable Architectural Designer who enjoys developing thoughtful design solutions, delivering high-quality work, and taking ownership of projects.

You will bring:

• A minimum of 3 years' hands-on experience in an Architectural Designer, Architectural Technician, Architectural Drafter, or similar architectural role.
• Proven experience designing and documenting housing and residential projects, including standalone homes and/or multi-unit developments. Experience with light commercial projects is highly regarded.
• Strong architectural and technical capability, with the ability to develop practical, functional, and visually considered solutions that respond to client requirements, construction methods, compliance, and project constraints.
• A strong understanding of the New Zealand Building Code, Building Act, relevant standards, and regulations, including practical knowledge of building consent requirements and processes.
• Experience coordinating with clients, architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders throughout the design, consent, and construction process.
• Strong proficiency in Archicad or Revit, with the ability to confidently develop architectural designs and produce accurate, coordinated, and compliant documentation.
• LBP Design registration or a clear pathway towards LBP registration is highly regarded.

You will also have:

• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the confidence to manage expectations, provide constructive advice, and have challenging conversations professionally.
• Strong organisation and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects, competing priorities, and deadlines.
• A proactive and solutions-focused approach, with the ability to take initiative, make sound decisions, identify issues, and resolve problems effectively.
• A positive and professional approach, with a willingness to share knowledge, support colleagues, and contribute to continuous improvement.
• A commitment to ongoing professional development and keeping current with industry practices, technology, legislation, and requirements.

Most importantly, you'll be passionate about architecture and design, take pride in your work, and enjoy creating practical, well-considered outcomes for clients and project teams.

Why Join Draftline?

This is an exciting opportunity to join Draftline, where your work genuinely makes a difference and your contribution is valued. You’ll have the opportunity to work across a diverse range of housing, residential, and light commercial projects, bringing your design ideas to life and contributing to quality outcomes for our clients.

We offer competitive remuneration and a workplace where performance, professionalism, and personality all matter. Whether you're someone who likes to map out every detail or does their best work after a second coffee and a quiet moment to focus, you'll find a supportive environment where you can do your best work.

Our culture is shaped by our people — supportive, practical, and down-to-earth. We share knowledge, work together to solve problems, and celebrate successes along the way. We enjoy a laugh, but we're equally committed to delivering quality work and maintaining high standards.

At Draftline, you'll be part of a team that is passionate about architecture, design, and creating practical solutions. You'll have the opportunity to take ownership of projects, contribute your ideas, work alongside experienced professionals, and continue building your skills and career.

If you're looking for a role where you can create, contribute, and grow as an Architectural Designer, while being part of a genuinely supportive team, we'd love to hear from you.

How to Apply

If this sounds like the right next step for you, or you have more question, we would really love to hear from you.

To apply, please send through your CV along with a cover letter that tells us a bit about your experience, what excites you about this opportunity, your current location, and whether you would be open to relocating.

Applications can be emailed to [email protected]

A quick note: applicants for this position must have New Zealand Residency**.**