Career Opportunities at DeForest Architects
Join Us
DeForest Architects is an inventive, thoughtful, and collaborative studio that brings people, buildings, and ideas together. Clients have described our process as “inclusive, hands-on, fun, and addictive.” That hits the mark because it reflects our desire to be innovative not only in what we design, but in how we listen, learn, and work together. We have a sunny studio overlooking Portage Bay in Seattle, Washington, and another in Lake Tahoe, California, as well as a slate of exciting projects on the boards.
We seek:
Idea people who are also capable of contributing to projects from start to finish,
Collaborators who share their initiative, inspiration, and enthusiasm,
Professionals who combine wide expertise with a spirit of discovery, and
Talented designers who are devoted to serving clients.
If our work interests you and you have relevant experience, please email your resume and work samples to hiring@deforestarchitects.com. Please, no calls.
Experienced Architect and Project Lead
We need strong design and project leadership skills gained from a minimum of 12 years of experience working on challenging projects in all phases, including at least 5 years on complex custom single-family residential projects. We expect a qualified candidate to adjust quickly to our process and projects and to collaborate with our principals and team to lead projects within 6 months. Technical knowledge and thoughtful detailing are a must. Excellent communication – with clients and team – and organizational skills should be second nature.
Other qualifications:
-Minimum 12 years of overall experience in the field, with at least 5 years working on custom residential projects.
-Experience managing and leading all phases of design and construction administration.
-Knowledge of wood frame construction and detailing.
-Experience with complex land use issues, critical areas, and permitting.
-Proficiency with ArchiCAD preferred.
-Licensure in WA or CA preferred, but not required.
-Self-sufficient, great team player, and responsible time management.
-A good sense of humor is a prerequisite!
Key Responsibilities:
-Contribute to multiple project teams as needed.
-Provide support for project teams and principals.
-Project management, including client and team communication.
-Design under the supervision of the principals.
-Design document production.
-Construction document production, including details and specifications.
-Consultant coordination.
-Code research and compliance, handle complex land use issues, critical areas, and permitting.
Compensation:
-24 days of paid time off - includes holidays and health time.
-Annual bonuses.
-Simple IRA with 3% employer match.
-Health and vision plan.
-Continuing education stipend.
-Salary based on experience and qualifications.
All applicants must be local to the area (or willing to relocate at their own expense) and legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.
Architect and Project Manager
We need strong design and project management skills gained from a minimum of 8 years of experience working on challenging projects in all phases, including at least 2 years on complex custom single-family residential projects. Technical knowledge and thoughtful detailing are a must. Excellent communication – with clients and team – and organizational skills should be second nature.
Other qualifications:
-Minimum 8 years of overall experience in the field, with at least 2 years working on custom residential projects.
-Experience managing all phases of design and construction administration.
-Knowledge of wood frame construction and detailing.
-Experience with complex land use issues, critical areas, and permitting.
-Proficiency with ArchiCAD preferred.
-Licensure in WA or CA preferred, but not required.
-Self-sufficient, great team player, and responsible time management.
-A good sense of humor is a prerequisite!
Key Responsibilities:
-Contribute to multiple project teams as needed.
-Provide support for project teams and principals.
-Project management, including client and team communication.
-Design under the supervision of project leads and principals.
-Design document production.
-Construction document production, including details and specifications.
-Consultant coordination.
-Code research and compliance, handle complex land use issues, critical areas, and permitting.
Compensation:
-24 days of paid time off - includes holidays and health time.
-Annual bonuses.
-Simple IRA with 3% employer match.
-Health and vision plan.
-Continuing education stipend.
-Salary based on experience and qualifications.
All applicants must be local to the area (or willing to relocate at their own expense) and legally authorized to work in the US without sponsorship.
Updated 9.18.2025