Preservation Architect

Preservation Architect Position 

Location:          211 N. Clinton St, Suite 3S Chicago, Illinois 60661

Salary Range:  $100,000-$125,000/year, Negotiable based on experience

About AltusWorks

AltusWorks is a certified Woman-Owned architectural design firm specializing in historic preservation, building science, and adaptive reuse. Founded in 2003 by Ellen Stoner, the firm is built on the belief that existing buildings are renewable assets that strengthen communities through thoughtful revitalization.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Preservation Architect to lead restoration, renovation, rehabilitation, and adaptive reuse projects, serving as both the technical lead and project manager. This role combines technical leadership, design expertise, and client collaboration to support the continued use of historic and existing buildings. 

Project Management 

• Lead condition assessments for building exteriors, interiors, and accessibility improvements
• Direct façade investigations, field reviews, and failure analysis
• Prepare clear technical reports and repair scopes
• Direct and develop architectural design and construction documents for restoration and adaptive reuse projects
• Support facility planning and building envelope restoration

Collaboration & Business Development

• Maintain client relationships and support project pursuits, including proposal interviews
• Contribute to the firm’s collaborative “seller-doer” culture

Preservation & Documentation

• Conduct historic research and documentation
• Support preservation planning and regulatory review processes
• Direct and prepare measured drawings and existing condition documentation

Team Leadership

• Mentor architectural staff and preservation specialists
• Direct project team task assignments and oversee quality, schedule, and budget alignment

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Historic Preservation, or Structural Engineering (Master’s preferred)
• Architect license or on licensure track
• 10+ years of experience in historic preservation and building rehabilitation, including demonstrated project management responsibility
• Strong knowledge of building science, historic materials, and restoration methods
• Experience preparing construction documents and technical reports
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Adobe InDesign, and Microsoft Office
• Excellent communication and presentation skills

Field & Physical Requirements

• Ability to perform fieldwork including ladder use, swing stage, and lift access.

What We’re Looking For

We value professionals who are:

• Curious and detail-oriented
• Collaborative and dependable
• Passionate about preservation and community impact
• Strong problem-solvers with a big-picture mindset

Benefits Highlights

• Paid time off and holidays
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options
• Short-term and long-term disability fully paid
• 401(k) with employer contribution and profit sharing
• Professional development support
• Discretionary bonuses based on performance or special project needs
• Hybrid and flexible work policies, targeting 3 days per week in the office.

Why Join Us?

At AltusWorks, you’ll help preserve history while shaping the future by working on meaningful projects that strengthen communities through the responsible stewardship of the built environment. You will join a collaborative team committed to meaningful, technically rigorous work. Visit www.altusworks.com to learn more about our firm, clients, and culture.

To Apply:
Submit the following to altus-info@altusworks.com:

• Statement of Interest
• Resume

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. AltusWorks does not provide visa sponsorship for this position.