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Open Position

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Architectural Associate

About The Role: 
The Architectural Associate is an entry level position that works on a hybrid schedule in NWS’s Chicago office. The Architectural Associate reports to the Managing Principal and is responsible for providing support to the firms Project Managers and Project Architects. On a day-to-day basis the Architectural Associate will work closely with the architectural team on a variety of tasks such as construction drawings, renderings, and existing conditions.

Responsibilities:

  • Produce construction drawings on a wide range of projects with guidance provided from the project manager and project architect.
  • Work with the architectural team to develop design ideas and schemes while communicating the design ideas through drawings and renderings.
  • Visit local and national project locations to perform site visits documenting existing conditions or observing construction progress.
  • Support the project manager with responding to client requests, preparing backgrounds for outside consultants, and compiling project submittals.
  • Prepare and track permit submittals and respond to permit comments with the support of the project manager and project architect.
  • Create project folders and maintain the project directory.
  • Provide architectural support for various project tasks as assigned by the project manager or architect.

Soft Skills/Behaviors:

  • Excellent communication skills to successfully engage with other members of the project team including clients and consultants.
  • Excellent organizational skills.
  • High attention to detail.
  • Service first attitude.
  • Resourceful and responsive.
  • A “can-do” attitude.
  • Ability to prioritize and multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
  • Desire to learn and grow skillset.
  • Aptitude to learn new skills or programs quickly.

Technical Skills:

  • 0-3 years of experience.
  • Degree in architecture from an accredited university.
  • Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe, Microsoft Office Suite (Required).
  • Proficiency in Revit, Lumion, Enscape, Sketchup, and Photoshop (Preferred).
  • Ability to travel on a limited basis both locally and within the United States (2 times per month).
  • Relevant experience in retail or commercial architecture preferred.

The expected salary range for this position is . The actual compensation will be based on factors such as scope and responsibilities of the position, candidate’s work experience, education/training, job-related skills, internal peer equity, market and business considerations and other factors permitted by law.

What We Offer:

  • Compensation and Benefits:
    • Competitive pay
    • Profit sharing opportunities
    • 401K company match
    • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
    • HSA
  • Work-Life Balance:
    • Hybrid work model
    • 20+ paid days off annually
    • 13+ paid holidays in addition to PTO
    • Paid parental leave
  • Career Development:
    • Industry-leading training and development
    • Open door policy
    • Industry trade shows and event access
    • Mentorship program

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Asset Management & Optimisation

Enhancing performance, relevance and long-term value across the life of an asset.

We help owners and investors unlock more from their assets through active management, operational insight and targeted value creation. Our focus is not simply on maintaining performance, but on improving it: financially, operationally and experientially.

That means understanding how buildings are used, how occupier needs are evolving, and where practical improvements can strengthen income, reduce friction and future-proof value. We take a holistic view of asset performance, combining commercial analysis with operational detail, customer insight and a clear plan for action.

Our work typically includes:

  • Asset strategy and business plan execution

  • Leasing, occupancy and income performance review

  • Operational and service optimisation

  • Tenant and occupier experience improvement

  • Capex planning and value-enhancement initiatives

  • Repositioning and refurbishment strategy

  • Data-led performance monitoring

  • ESG, wellness and future-readiness considerations

How we add value:
We help assets stay competitive, efficient and desirable, ensuring they continue to perform for investors while serving the people and communities around them.
 
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Development & Project Management

Turning vision into deliverable, investable and well-executed projects.

We lead projects from first principles through to completion, bringing clarity, control and momentum at every stage. Our role is to align ambition with execution, ensuring design, programme, cost, risk and stakeholder priorities are managed as one integrated process.

Foundry’s approach is hands-on, commercially aware and delivery-led. We work across the full lifecycle of a project, from feasibility and planning through procurement, construction and handover. By combining practical experience with progressive thinking, technology and a deep understanding of end users, we help create places that perform operationally, financially and socially.

Our work typically includes:

  • Project inception and feasibility

  • Development strategy and brief definition

  • Consultant and design team leadership

  • Programme, cost and risk management

  • Planning and statutory coordination

  • Procurement and contract strategy

  • Construction oversight and reporting

  • Stakeholder, partner and investor management

How we add value:
We bring clarity to complexity. By integrating commercial thinking with design, delivery and stakeholder alignment, we help clients move from idea to outcome with confidence.
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Investment Advisory

Making better investment decisions with clarity, rigour and purpose.

We help clients identify, shape and assess real estate opportunities with a clear view of risk, value and long-term potential. Our approach combines commercial discipline with strategic insight, ensuring every decision is grounded in market reality while aligned with wider investment objectives.

We work closely with investors, funds, family offices and partners to test assumptions, strengthen business plans and unlock opportunities that are both financially robust and genuinely sustainable. From early-stage origination through to underwriting, repositioning and exit strategy, we bring structure, perspective and conviction.

Our work typically includes:

  • Acquisition and disposal advice

  • Opportunity sourcing and strategic screening

  • Development and operational appraisals

  • Highest and best use analysis

  • Business plan creation and challenge

  • Investment committee support

  • Market, demand and competitor analysis

  • Capital partner and stakeholder positioning

How we add value:
We do more than assess assets. We help shape the right strategy for the right opportunity, balancing commercial returns with long-term relevance, resilience and impact.
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