Senior Designer

You will contribute to some of Aotearoa New Zealand's most transformative projects, working across all stages and sectors. This role offers the scope to take ownership of significant and complex projects from concept to completion, within a supportive, collaborative studio environment.

We're looking for someone who is:

• A high performer with strong design and technical capability
• Confident in leading projects and coordinating teams
• Collaborative, proactive, and passionate about great design outcomes
• Someone who enjoys building authentic relationships with clients, communities, and project teams.

If you're ready to help shape meaningful architecture and be part of a dynamic team, we'd love to hear from you

About DCA:

Founded in 1996, DCA Architects of Transformation is an established, award-winning NZIA and ADNZ practice with a team of 20 in our four current studios (Auckland, Rotorua, Hawke's Bay & Nelson). Our on-going current work commitments across commercial, civic, education and social housing & health sectors means there is opportunity for talented professionals to join our team.

Career potential:

The position for a Senior Designer/Architect includes working on some of the most trans-formative projects in NZ across all project stages in various sectors. There is scope to take ownership of significant and complex projects from start to finish in supportive, collaborative studio environment. You will liaise directly with clients and the DCA team, including directors and partners.

• You will be a key part of a progressive award-winning practice.
• Opportunity - if you are driven and looking to grow professionally, we are the studio for you.

You need to have:

A relevant architectural qualification, preferably with ArchiCAD proficiency. Excellent time management skills and strong communication ability. At least 10 years industry experience in NZ.

The remuneration structure includes:

• A competitive remuneration structure that includes flexible work hours.
• We value our team's time and offer a balanced lifestyle.
• Ongoing professional development including industry association memberships: for example NZRAB, NZIA, LBP fees.
• Regular team social events and a friendly, welcoming studio culture.
• Contribution towards relocation costs, if applicable.

DCA Advantages

We care about our team and we have a great workplace culture following DCA values. A fun studio with an emphasis on being 'real'. We chat, we laugh, we support each other, dress for the occasion - we are more T-Shirts, jeans and sneakers than suits and ties, however we have been known to scrub up for special occasions. Of course, all this fun is balanced with getting the job done to a high standard and we are looking for the best talent in NZ.

Flexible work hours: We are a modern studio, so if you need to knock off early to coach your kid's sports team, need a late start to get your hair done, you can fit your life around work commitments.

Well-being: We offer well-being benefits annually to every team member to either get the gear, or costs to participate in activities that contribute to your health and well-being.

Annual team T-Shirt: Every year we commission a local designer to create a new T-Shirt design and every team member gets one.

We like to support charities and causes that our team are passionate about, so if you are a crusader for a good cause, then lets discuss how we might be able to contribute.

KiwiSaver: employer contribution of 3% on top of your salary.

Get your work/life balance sorted - Apply now

• If short-listed, applicants must be available for interview within two weeks (video call is fine).
• If you are shortlisted for a second interview, our preference would be a face to face interview.
• Email a cover letter along with your CV and portfolio to 
• All applications treated in confidence.

Employer questions

Your application will include the following questions:

• We are seeking a high performer. Describe what makes you a high performer?
• What are the softwares you are most proficient in?
• How many years' work experience do you have in the architecture industry?
• How many years of construction management experience do you have?
• Have you worked in a role where you were responsible for Design/authoring and reviewing technical documentation?