Entry Level Architectural Designer

GFT is seeking a Entry Level Architectural Designer to join our architectural team in Chicago, IL ! This role follows a hybrid work model, requiring regular attendance to our office location.

At GFT, our architecture team is at the forefront of innovative design, shaping inspirational, sustainable, and aesthetically striking structures that stand the test of time. Collaborating with a diverse group of industry experts and our in-house engineering teams, our architects leverage advanced technologies and creative solutions to deliver exceptional projects that positively impact and reshape communities. Explore some of our signature architecture projects.

What you'll be challenged to do :

The Entry Level Architectural Designer will support architectural teams and fully commit to multi-disciplined design efforts. You will work on high-impact projects for national, state, and local government agencies, as well as clients in the civic, transportation, transit, and aviation sectors.

December 2025 graduates are encouraged to apply!

In this capacity, the successful candidate will be responsible for the following :

• Assist in preparing concept designs for active projects and proposals.
• Assist in preparing architectural working drawings and related project documents.
• Assist in preparation of project specifications.
• Coordinate construction administration activities such as the review of shop drawings, response to requests for information, and running construction meetings.
• Work collaboratively and positively in a team environment.
• Produce conceptual renderings for project and presentation purposes.
• Be willing to expand your skills and grow professionally.

What you will bring to our firm :

What we prefer you bring :

Compensation :

The salary range for this role is $60,000-$72,000. Salary is dependent upon experience and geographic location.

Featured Benefits :

At GFT, a privately held AEC firm, we innovate where transportation, water, power, and buildings converge. We call this the Infrastructure of Life. We measure our success by the strength of our relationships – that’s why we’re the employer of choice for 5,000+ of the industry’s brightest engineers, planners, architects, inspectors, designers, and more.

Our clients choose us for our expertise and prefer us for our nimble approach, creativity, and personal touch. Backed by over a century’s experience, together we’re building a lasting legacy for future generations : stronger communities, a healthier planet, and better lives. GFT : Ingenuity That Shapes Lives™ is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veterans’ status or other characteristics protected by law.

Unsolicited resumes from third party agencies will be considered the property GFT.

Sponsorship is not being offered for this position.

Location :   Chicago, IL Core Business Hours : 8 : 00 AM – 5 : 00 PM Employment Status : Full-Time Salary Range :   $60,000-$72,000Salary dependent upon experience and geographic location

GFT does require the successful completion of a criminal background check for all advertised positions.

"California Applicants" Applicants in the County of Los Angeles - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers and the California Fair Chance Act. Applicants in the City of San Francisco - Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Applicants in the State of California - Qualified applications with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with the California Fair Chance Act.#LI-DNI#LI-DNP