Careers
We believe great employees make great companies. When we talk about recruiting the best and brightest, we’re talking about people who thrive on the excitement of collaboration for high quality and innovative design, set their own goals, and work hard to achieve them. Our employees are self-motivated and are passionate about what they do and passionate about creating designs that matter.
At Design Collective, we make it a priority to recruit talented people based upon our long-term vision for the firm’s growth and how prospective employees can contribute and prosper within our culture. By taking the time to strategically fill positions with employees on a career path instead of for the immediate needs of a single project, both the firm and each employee benefit from a lasting commitment.
Design Collective is a nationally recognized Baltimore and Chicago-based architecture, planning and urban design, landscape architecture and interior design firm that offers competitive salaries, an Employee Stock-Ownership Plan (ESOP), voluntary 401K participation, above-standard company paid contributions towards medical and Rx coverage, a licensure/registration reimbursement plan, and flexible work opportunities. The firm maintains a core of well-respected public and private sector clients and a portfolio of award-winning projects in a variety of high-performing, growth-oriented market sectors.
We provide resources for continuing education, professional development programs, and networking. Employees can attend relevant professional or education classes, seminars, or conferences to advance their knowledge or obtain credits required by the State Registration Boards for maintaining current licensure or pursuing new accreditations.
In addition to outside programs, Design Collective has a well-established in-house series of educational programs. These include regular “Lunch and Learn” sessions, “Design Collective University” seminars, construction site visits, and our “First Thursday” program, where employees socialize and discuss projects, the profession, and life.
Baltimore magazine included us in Best Places to Work 2019.
As a multi-disciplinary design firm, Design Collective is always looking for passionate and qualified candidates for current or future positions that may open. These include architects, urban planners, interior designers, landscape architects and graphic designers.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa.
*Submissions without a portfolio will not be reviewed.
Current Opportunities
Positions: Architect and Urban Designer
Design Collective is seeking talented, motivated Architects and Urban Designers to join our design studios in Downtown Baltimore at the Inner Harbor and in Chicago’s Willis Tower. Design Collective has opportunities for design-focused professionals who enjoy collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, solving complex challenges, and contributing to meaningful projects that shape communities – see specific opportunities and requirements below as well as our website for more information. https://www.designcollective.com/careers/
Our Architecture studio in Baltimore works across a variety of project types, with a strong focus in urban design, housing design, including University student life and developer mixed-use housing, K-12 and higher education schools and facilities, and civic/ entertainment projects.
Our Architecture studio in Chicago works across a variety of project types, with a strong focus in housing design, including University student life and developer mixed-use housing.
Both locations offer team members the opportunity to engage in projects holistically from early concepts through construction.
Our Urban Design studio, based in Baltimore, engages in projects ranging from sites as small as a few city blocks to several hundred acres or more for private developer clients as well as public sector agencies. Our work focuses on placemaking, retrofitting our suburbs and corridors, reinvesting in our neighborhoods and cities, and creating vibrant, walkable, mixed-use places that are dynamic, equitable, and diverse.
Who is Design Collective?
We are a Collective of designers, thinkers, and creatives dedicated to crafting inspirational places that enrich lives and empower communities. Our vision is to use the powerful expression of design to drive generational community resilience. Our values are to amplify culture, regenerate health and habitat, and ensure economic and social resilience. We are a highly collaborative and passionate team with 5 areas of expertise under one roof: Architecture, Urban Design/Planning, Interior Design, Landscape Architecture and Environmental Graphics. Approaching our 50th anniversary, our Chicago and Baltimore studios are recognized nationally for our expertise in crafting award-wining innovative Housing, Student Life, Education, and Community/Civic/Cultural projects and experiences.
To learn more about our work, visit https://www.designcollective.com/portfolio/
Who We're Looking For:
- Architects with a professional degree in Architecture and professional architectural experience, from entry level to 12 years for the Baltimore position and with a minimum of 3 years of experience for the Chicago position.
- Urban Designer with a B.S. or master’s from an accredited college or university (architecture, landscape architecture, and/or urban design); 10-15 years of professional experience; outstanding planning, design, and analytical skills; and licensure or certification (AIA, AICP, ASLA, LEED-AP, etc.). The position requires the preparation of rigorous context, site, and zoning analysis; engagement with diverse stakeholders; and evaluation of economic, historic, cultural, social, and environmental assets of a place. Project management and GIS experience are preferred but not required. Submission of a portfolio is a requirement. Importantly, candidates should have a passion for planning and designing livable, engaging, and sustainable places at a variety of scales.
- Proficiency in Revit and/or CAD, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, Rhino, and SketchUp
- Proficiency in GIS and Lumion may be preferred
- Strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills
- Excellent organizational and time-management abilities
- Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem solving
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively within a team environment
What You'll Do:
- Prepare existing conditions analysis, plan diagrams, conceptual site plans, massing models, street sections, presentations, and charrette/workshop materials
- Prepare and format report and design guidelines graphics, text, and documents
- Support community engagement and facilitation
- Support the preparation of project presentations
- Develop design and construction documentation from feasibility through Construction Administration
- Collaborate with project teams, consultants, and clients
- Attend site visits
- Assist with project planning, coordination, and day-to-day project management
- Participate actively in project meetings, design reviews, and team communications
- Coordinate with product representatives and industry partners to evaluate building products
- Contribute to a collaborative studio culture focused on design quality, technical excellence, and professional growth
Why Join Design Collective?
- Work on impactful housing and community-focused projects
- Collaborate with a talented and supportive multidisciplinary team
- Gain experience across all phases of project delivery
- Contribute to a design-driven culture that values creativity, innovation, and professional development
- Be part of a firm committed to creating meaningful places and lasting client relationships
The Compensation and Benefits
Design Collective offers competitive salaries, an employer funded Employee Stock-Ownership Plan (ESOP), 401(k), above-standard company paid contributions towards medical and RX coverage, employer paid medical deductible, voluntary dental, vision, short and long-term disability, paid life insurance, two weeks of paid vacation or more depending upon experience, paid sick days, flexible work arrangements, licensure/registration reimbursement plan, professional development opportunities, networking support, and more.
The compensation range is $55,000 to $135,000 annually and is commensurate with experience.
If you are passionate about urban design and architecture, enjoy working in a collaborative environment, and are eager to make a meaningful impact on projects and communities, we would love to hear from you.
Interested candidates should send a resume and portfolio* (or online link) to: HR@designcollective.com and “Architect - Baltimore”, “Architect – Chicago”, or “Urban Designer – Baltimore” in the subject line.
*Submissions without a portfolio will not be reviewed.
Positions: Landscape Architect
Design Collective is seeking a talented and motivated Landscape Architect with 1–5 years of professional experience to join our design studio in Downtown Baltimore. We are looking for a designer who is curious, collaborative, and eager to grow—someone who enjoys thinking through design challenges, contributing ideas, and working with a multidisciplinary team to create meaningful places and experiences.
Our Landscape Architecture studio works across a diverse range of project types, with a strong focus on urban open space, parks, plazas, streetscapes, multifamily and student housing, K–12 education, and civic and entertainment projects. Our work ranges from early planning and community engagement through design, documentation, and construction administration.
This is an opportunity to work on projects that have a tangible impact on communities while developing your design, technical, and professional skills alongside an experienced team.
We are looking for a Landscape Architect who:
- Holds a professional degree in Landscape Architecture and has 1–5 years of professional experience.
- Brings a strong interest in landscape design and a desire to develop their own design voice.
- Is curious, proactive, and willing to ask questions, explore ideas, and contribute to the design process.
- Has strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills.
- Has proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office, Rhino, and/or SketchUp. Experience with GIS and Lumion is a plus.
- Demonstrates strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Has excellent attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem solving.
- Can manage multiple priorities and work effectively within a collaborative, multidisciplinary team.
- Is interested in developing both their design and technical skills through all phases of project delivery.
- Is working toward professional licensure or interested in pursuing licensure.
What you'll do:
As a member of our Landscape Architecture studio, you will have the opportunity to contribute to projects from concept through construction. Responsibilities may include:
- Contribute to the development of landscape design concepts and solutions at multiple scales.
- Support community engagement, public meetings, and stakeholder facilitation.
- Assist with the preparation of project presentations, diagrams, renderings, and other graphic materials.
- Develop design and construction documentation from feasibility and conceptual design through Construction Administration.
- Collaborate with landscape architects, architects, planners, interior designers, environmental graphic designers, engineers, consultants, and clients.
- Participate in site visits, field investigations, and construction observation.
- Assist with project planning, coordination, and day-to-day project management.
- Participate actively in project meetings, design reviews, and team communications.
- Coordinate with product representatives and industry partners to research and evaluate materials, products, and systems.
- Help develop planting plans, details, specifications, and other technical documentation.
- Contribute to a collaborative studio culture focused on design quality, technical excellence, innovation, and professional growth.
- Take increasing ownership of project tasks and design opportunities as your experience develops.
Why Join Design Collective?
At Design Collective, we believe the best work happens when people bring different perspectives, disciplines, and ideas to the table. As a Landscape Architect, you will have the opportunity to:
- Work on impactful, community-focused projects across a diverse range of scales and project types.
- Collaborate with talented professionals across five design disciplines.
- Gain experience across all phases of project delivery, from planning and community engagement through construction.
- Develop your design voice while learning from experienced landscape architects and multidisciplinary design professionals.
- Work in a design-driven culture that values creativity, curiosity, innovation, and technical excellence.
- Pursue professional licensure with support from the firm.
- Contribute to projects that create meaningful places and lasting value for the communities we serve.
- Build lasting relationships with clients, consultants, industry partners, and fellow designers.
Compensation & Benefits
Design Collective offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including:
- Salary range: $55,000–$75,000 annually, commensurate with experience.
- Employer-funded Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP).
- 401(k) with above-standard company-paid contributions.
- Company-paid medical and prescription coverage.
- Employer-paid medical deductible.
- Voluntary dental and vision coverage.
- Short- and long-term disability insurance.
- Company-paid life insurance.
- Two weeks of paid vacation or more depending on experience.
- Paid sick days.
- Flexible work arrangements.
- Licensure and registration reimbursement program.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Networking and professional organization support.
- And more.
How to Apply
If you are passionate about landscape architecture, enjoy working collaboratively, and are eager to contribute to meaningful projects and communities, we would love to hear from you.
Please submit a resume and portfolio (or link to an online portfolio) to
Please include “Landscape Architect – Baltimore” in the subject line.
*Submissions without a portfolio will not be reviewed.
Design Collective, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, familial status, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by Federal or State law. Applicants who need ADA accommodation for an interview should request the accommodation when notified of a request to be interviewed. Applicants must be legally eligible to work in the United States. Design Collective, Inc. does not offer sponsorship.