Early Career Architectural Designer

WSP • Portland, ME

2d

About The Position

WSP, an award-winning and innovative multi-disciplinary firm, is currently looking for an Early Career Architectural Designer to join our Buildings AE team at our Portland, ME office.
As part of our growing organization committed to solving complex challenges and exceeding client expectations, you will provide technical support throughout all phases of project development. This includes due diligence, planning, concept design, and the implementation of functional and sustainable building solutions for both public and private sector projects.
Responsibilities include assisting with project visualization, drawings, specifications, budgets, and construction documents. Working under the mentorship or senior staff, the role also involves producing clear and accurate documentation—such as blueprints, renderings, and technical specifications—related to materials, installation methods, feasibility, and construction technologies. All responsibilities will be carried out with coaching and oversight, with the expectation that all work will reflect developing proficiency and align with industry standards for design, safety, structural integrity, and occupancy.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, or closely related discipline.
• 0 to 1 years of relevant post education experience.
• Knowledge of architectural principles, practices, process, and the application to project work-related issues.
• Familiarity with building planning, drawing standards, design, and construction management; including restorative and new design.
• Capable creative, visualization, and technical drawing skills.
• Awareness of relevant building and construction laws, codes, regulations, compliance practices, and record-keeping requirements.
• Competent interpersonal and communication skills when interacting with others, expressing ideas effectively and professionally to a technical and non-technical audience.
• Proficient self-leadership with attention to detail, multi-tasking, and prioritization of responsibilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Ability to work independently under general supervision, as well as part of a team to meet business objectives.
• Basic proficiency with technical writing, office automation, technology, math principles, graphics, spreadsheets, and tools.
• Familiarity with discipline-specific design software (i.e., MicroStation, AutoCAD, REVIT, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Proven track record of upholding workplace safety and ability to abide by WSP’s health, safety and drug/alcohol and harassment policies.
• Ability to work schedules conducive to project-specific requirements that may extend beyond the typical workweek.
• Occasional travel may be required depending on project-specific requirements.

Nice To Haves

• Prior internship related to the degree of study and the specific discipline.
• A member of and/or actively participate in local professional practice organizations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in developing small- to medium-sized building projects, including preparing architectural drawings and visualizations.
• Collect and analyze site data, surveys, maps, and environmental information to support design and construction planning.
• Conduct research and inspections of proposed and existing site conditions to ensure compliance with design standards and permitting requirements.
• Contribute to concept development and design strategies that prioritize safety, functionality, and future-ready solutions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support construction layout, material selection, cost estimation, and project scheduling.
• Prepare technical documentation, including reports, renderings, calculations, and 2D/3D illustrations for design interpretation and presentation.

Benefits

• Employees are also afforded a comprehensive suite of benefits including medical, dental, vision, disability, life, and retirement savings focused on providing health and financial stability throughout the employee’s career.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level