Associate Architect

Company Description

French Associates is an architecture and interior design firm based in Auburn Hills, Michigan, founded in 1971 by Roy G. French. The firm brings over 50 years of experience balancing aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability to create spaces that enhance how people live, work, and interact. With a strong emphasis on intuitive, enduring design, French Associates focuses on environments that support long-term growth and evolving needs. The team collaborates closely with experts in civil, structural, and mechanical engineering, as well as trusted construction partners, to deliver integrated, detail-oriented solutions. A hallmark of the firm is its personalized client service, characterized by clear communication, proactive problem-solving, and ongoing support throughout the planning and construction process.

We are a growth-oriented company and are seeking an Associate Architect / Designer you will be responsible for providing internal support and team consultation services to assign projects from initiation through completion. This position will require occasional local travel to project sites and meetings.

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and solutions-oriented team player who thrives in a fast-paced, project-driven environment. They exhibit a strong service mindset, excellent communication skills, and a positive proactive approach, attention to detail, and dedication to quality and consistency are essential.

Responsibilities:

• Under the supervision of a Project Manager/ Project Architect: Aid in the production of professional services including architectural concepts and designs, construction documents including specifications/material research, and construction administration (shop drawings and RFIs).

• Ensure cohesive project plans. Coordinate with engineering consultants (structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, food service and civil) as assigned to project.

• Participate in internal and/or external project meetings, as necessary.

• Support design work with 3D visualization models, mockups, or other presentations as required.

• Participate in technical review processes through all phases of the project to meet the expectations for quality and project performance.

• Other assignments as directed by the project team lead or senior leadership.

• Job Captain duties, when assigned

Qualifications:

Preferred

• Minimum of a Bachelor of Science in Architecture (4-year) degree. In lieu of a degree, a combination of experience and education will be considered.

• Five or more years of experience working in architecture, engineering, or construction environments with firsthand BIM/CAD production and coordination responsibilities.

Technical Skillset

• Proficiency in Autodesk Revit required.

• Experience with Navisworks, Bluebeam, AutoCAD, cloud collaboration platforms (BIM 360 / ACC), and related digital coordination tools.

• Familiarity with model-based coordination workflows and multi-disciplinary collaboration practices.

Professional Strengths

• Excellent communication and team collaboration skills.

• Strong organizational, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

• Demonstrated ability to mentor others and contribute to a positive, learningoriented culture.

Other Requirements

• Ability to travel to various project sites for research, project, client and meetings.

• Ability to observe, investigate and evaluate project means, methods, and construction details.

• Ability to represent company at various industry and client functions