Job Title: Designer
Position Type: Full-time, with a minimum of 32 hours per week
Work Location & Hours: Flexible, with an expectation of in-office participation a minimum of three days per week. Minimal travel expected.
Salary Range: $64,000 - $84,000 annually, depending on experience (equal to approx. $31 – $40 per hour based on a 40-hour workweek)
OVERVIEW:
At Zoetrope Architecture Studio, we believe in the power of design to inspire, connect, and transform. We are a boutique firm rooted in Seattle’s dynamic and evolving landscape, with an approach that marries innovative vision with thoughtful detail to create architecture that enhances lives. We are seeking a thoughtful, motivated, and responsible Designer to join our collaborative team and contribute to projects that shape and improve communities.
POSITION SUMMARY:
As a Designer at Zoetrope, you will support the design and documentation process across a variety of project types and phases. You will work closely with project leads and team members while developing your technical skills, design voice, and professional experience. This role is ideal for someone who is eager to learn, receptive to mentorship, and excited to grow within a collaborative studio environment.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
● Assist with the development of design concepts and solutions across project phases.
● Prepare drawings, models, diagrams, and presentation materials.
● Support code research, zoning analysis, and regulatory coordination.
● Collaborate with project teams and consultants.
● Participate in internal design discussions and reviews.
● Provide general project support, including coordination and documentation tasks.
● Assist with construction administration activities as experience develops.
WHO YOU ARE & WHAT YOU BRING:
You are curious, engaged, and enthusiastic about design. You are eager to learn, open to feedback, and comfortable asking questions. You enjoy working collaboratively and take pride in producing thoughtful, well-crafted work. You are organized, dependable, and excited to contribute to a studio culture that values creativity, integrity, and mutual respect. Additionally, we are looking for someone with the following skills & abilities:
Core Competencies:
▪ Accountability and Dependability: Demonstrates reliability and follow-through.
▪ Collaboration and Teamwork: Works well with others and contributes positively to team dynamics.
▪ Creative Problem Solving: Shows curiosity and willingness to explore ideas and solutions.
▪ Adaptability: Comfortable working on a range of project types and tasks.
▪ Attention to Detail: Produces accurate and carefully considered work.
▪ Effective Time Management: Manages assigned tasks and deadlines with guidance from project leads.
▪ Strong Communication: Clearly expresses ideas visually, verbally, and in writing.
▪ Growth Mindset: Eager to build skills, knowledge, and professional confidence.
▪ Cultural Sensitivity and Inclusion: Contributes to an inclusive, respectful workplace.
Technical Skills:
▪ Software: Proficiency in Revit and the Adobe Creative Suite; experience with computational and
visualization tools such as Rhino, grasshopper, or Enscape is a plus but not required.
▪ Technical Detailing: Basic ability to produce drawings and 3D models.
▪ Code Familiarity: General awareness of building codes and regulations.
▪ Material & Systems Interest: Interest in learning about building materials and assemblies.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
▪ Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
▪ 3+ years of professional experience in an architectural or design role.
▪ Strong graphic, modeling, and visualization skills.
▪ Clear verbal, written, and visual communication abilities.
▪ Portfolio demonstrating design curiosity and foundational technical skills.
▪ Interest in sustainable and thoughtful design.
This position is classified as non-exempt, meaning the Designer will be paid for all hours worked in accordance with Washington State and Seattle wage-hour laws.
1. Work Environment:
▪ We offer a work environment that prioritizes both collaboration and flexibility. We encourage our team members to be present in the office to foster creativity, connection, and a sense of community; we also recognize the importance of personal flexibility.
▪ At Zoetrope, you will be supported in developing your skills, confidence, and professional growth.
2. Total Compensation:
▪ Competitive compensation package based on experience and qualifications
▪ 401(k) plan with company matching
▪ Discretionary bonus
▪ PTO and paid company holidays with flexible scheduling to support work-life harmony.
▪ Support for professional development and licensure
▪ Mentorship and opportunities for growth within the firm
▪ Provides medical coverage through an Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangement (ICHRA). Employees are eligible for a tax-free reimbursement allowance of $ 537.50 per month, which can be applied directly toward individual health insurance premiums and qualifying out-of-pocket medical expenses (such as copays and deductibles). Employees select and purchase their own plan through the individual health insurance marketplace.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
▪ Ability to participate in remote and in-person meetings and be onsite at client locations
▪ Occasional travel to worksites, consultant offices, and client engagements
READY TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
If this sounds like you, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and tell us how you see yourself contributing to Zoetrope Architecture Studio.
Send application to: info@zoetrope-arch.com