Commercial Architect

Position Description

As a licensed Architect based in our New Orleans, Austin, or Denver office, you will independently lead the planning, design, and technical delivery of architectural projects while providing design and technical leadership within project teams. This role is responsible for developing and coordinating architectural solutions from concept through construction, producing and reviewing design documentation, and actively participating in consultant coordination and construction administration.

You will apply sound architectural judgment, building codes, and firm standards with limited supervision, while mentoring team members and strengthening long-term client relationships. We are looking for a well-rounded architect with deep experience in commercial projects and/or mission critical facilities, who brings technical depth and a collaborative mindset to every engagement.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, technically demanding environment and is energized by solving complex design and delivery challenges for sophisticated clients.

Position Salary Range*

The expected salary range for this position is $85,000 to $115,000 annually.

Required Qualifications**

• NAAB-accredited Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
• Current architectural license/registration
• 10+ years of progressive professional architectural experience demonstrating increasing responsibility, technical competence, and independent problem-solving
• Demonstrated experience in commercial architecture and/or mission critical facilities
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD; strong working knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office
• Strong working knowledge of building codes, zoning requirements, and construction methods, with the ability to apply them independently
• Ability to analyze complex design challenges and develop well-reasoned architectural solutions
• Strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills
• Ability to coordinate effectively with consultants, contractors, and multidisciplinary internal teams
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet project deadlines with minimal oversight

Preferred Qualifications**

• Experience with data center, mission critical, or technology-driven facility design including understanding of redundancy systems, power distribution, and cooling infrastructure
• LEED certification and/or passion for sustainability
• Familiarity with Uptime Institute Tier Standards or similar mission critical design frameworks
• Willingness to adopt and help implement new tools, processes, and technologies

Did you know that some people hold back on applying to jobs if they don’t meet 100% of the listed requirements? We don’t 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 projects from conception to completion, ensuring high-quality delivery across commercial and mission critical project types
• Lead project teams, reviewing work to maintain standards and provide guidance
• Independently prepare and coordinate architectural drawings and BIM models across multiple project phases
• Lead the development of schematic design and design development concepts in collaboration with project leadership
• Translate project goals into a clear vision and produce original, engaging solutions
• Review work for compliance with project requirements, building codes, and quality standards
• Coordinate architectural scope with engineering consultants and other disciplines
• Prepare and review construction documents to ensure accuracy, completeness, and constructability
• Perform code analysis and support permitting and regulatory review processes
• Develop and refine construction cost estimates in collaboration with project teams
• Lead construction administration activities on small to medium projects, including submittal reviews, RFIs, and change orders
• Conduct site observations, prepare field reports, and support resolution of construction issues
• Review and mentor junior team members by providing clear direction and constructive feedback
• Contribute to studio leadership and support team processes, helping other team members grow in technical and career skills
• Maintain and develop internal and external client relationships
• Seal and sign permit documents on assigned projects
• Operate independently with sound judgment while escalating issues as appropriate
• May have supervisory responsibilities, including training, assigning and directing work, reviewing performance, rewarding and disciplining team members, addressing complaints, and resolving problems
• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with company policies and applicable laws
• Other duties as assigned

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:

Things to Note

*Actual pay will be determined based on the candidate’s 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.