Description
Plan and design single- and multi-family residences, renovations, and additions; produce code-compliant drawings and specifications, select materials and finishes, coordinate with engineers and builders, manage permitting and bids, and support construction to deliver functional, beautiful, energy-efficient homes.
- • Consult with homeowners to define goals, budget, and spatial requirements.
- • Measure existing conditions and produce as-built drawings for remodels.
- • Research zoning, setbacks, and residential building-code requirements.
- • Prepare conceptual site plans, floor plans, and massing studies.
- • Draft detailed plans, elevations, sections, and details using CAD/BIM.
- • Develop 3D models and renderings to communicate design intent.
- • Select materials, finishes, fixtures, appliances, and color palettes.
- • Design kitchens, baths, and custom millwork for function and ergonomics.
- • Coordinate structural, mechanical, electrical, and site engineering within the design.
- • Prepare permit and construction document sets with specifications and schedules.
- • Submit permit applications and respond to plan review comments.
- • Manage HOA or architectural review committee submittals and approvals.
- • Estimate project costs and develop phasing and construction timelines.
- • Solicit, compare, and recommend contractor bids to clients.
- • Administer residential construction contracts and track change orders.
- • Conduct site visits to observe work and verify compliance with drawings.
- • Answer RFIs and issue addenda, bulletins, and field sketches during construction.
- • Ensure designs meet residential codes, life-safety, accessibility, and energy standards.
- • Model energy performance and verify energy-code compliance.
- • Incorporate sustainable strategies such as daylighting, insulation upgrades, and rainwater harvesting.
- • Coordinate with interior designers, landscape designers, and specialty consultants.
- • Lead and review the work of drafters or junior designers.
- • Prepare homeowner packages with product cut sheets, warranties, and care guides.
- • Develop proposals and presentations to secure new residential projects.
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O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
