Communities First, Inc. is a Michigan-based nonprofit 501c3 whose mission is to build healthy, vibrant communities through economic development, affordable housing and innovative programming. CFI is focused on providing safe, quality affordable housing, increasing economic opportunities, and improving the quality of life of the populations that the organization serves.

Job Summary:

The Architect will be responsible for designing and supporting the oversight of the construction of CFI projects along with leadership. This individual will collaborate with the team at CFI to understand needs and requirements, develop architectural and landscape designs and plans, to ultimately ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and according to building regulations and standards.

Essential Functions:

• Collaborate with CFI leadership to determine their objectives, requirements, and budget constraints.
• Create architectural designs and plans that meet aesthetic, functional, and safety criteria.
• Develop detailed drawings, blueprints, and specifications using computer-aided design (CAD) software.
• Coordinate with engineers, contractors, and other professionals to ensure that designs are feasible and compliant with building codes and regulations.
• Oversee the construction process to ensure that projects are executed according to plans and specifications.
• Utilize knowledge of construction methods and structural design to develop concepts and create technical documents.
• Conduct site visits and inspections to monitor progress, resolve issues, and ensure quality control.
• Communicate effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders to provide updates, address concerns, and manage expectations.
• Stay informed about industry trends, technologies, and best practices in architecture and construction.
• Conduct assessments to identify areas for improvement in resource efficiency and environmental impact.
• Assist in the certification process for green building standards if applicable.
• Develop landscape design concepts that respond to the site’s context and the architectural vision, while considering factors such as circulation patterns, views, privacy, sunlight exposure, and wind protection.

Education:

• Bachelor's or higher degree in architecture
• Licensed architect with registration in the State of Michigan
• NCARB certificate is required. Applicants who are working towards the NCARB certificate are also encouraged to apply.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, Training, and Experience:

• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Word) and Adobe Acrobat
• Proficiency in CAD software, Revit, and other essential design tools
• Proven experience in architectural design, planning, and project management
• Working knowledge of building codes and ability to coordinate with consultants
• Possess interpersonal skills to foster working with others to elicit information, ability to think critically and creatively, and also to work independently
• Possess strong work ethic and demonstrates initiative; shows commitment and desire to work in an entrepreneurial, team-based environment
• Ability to demonstrate excellent oral, written, and presentation skills
• Demonstrated leadership and experience working in team environments
• Strong problem-solving skills with excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in the development of construction documents, including in-depth knowledge of construction materials
• Experience with and knowledge of construction contract administration and procedures

Competencies:

To perform the duties and functions of the role successfully, an individual should demonstrate and/or possess the following competencies:

• Stellar customer service skills
• High-energy
• Self-starter
• Interpersonal skills
• Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely
• Organizational skills
• Teamwork
• Ability to analyze, research, and interpret data
• Maintain confidentiality
• Ability to work effectively with a diverse group of people
• Flexibility
• Detail Oriented

Equal Employment Opportunity & ADA Compliance:

Communities First, Inc. provides equal employment opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training. To ensure equal employment opportunities to qualified individuals with a disability, Communities First, Inc. will make reasonable accommodations for the known disability of an otherwise qualified individual, unless undue hardship on the operation of the organization would result. We support and promote equal employment opportunity, human dignity, and racial, ethnic, and cultural diversity by taking positive steps to eliminate barriers that may exist in hiring and in employment practices. Discrimination of any type will not be tolerated.

This job description does not list all of the duties of the job. Other duties and responsibilities may be assigned. This job description may be revised at any time. This job description is not a contract for employment and either the employee or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason or no reason.