At Smallworks, Vancouver’s leading name in laneway homes and infill development, we’re not just building houses – we’re crafting a sustainable future for urban living. Back in 2006, Smallworks founder, Jake Fry, spearheaded the introduction of laneway homes in Vancouver when he recognized a gap in our housing supply and the opportunity to provide gentle density. Since then, we have built nearly 400 laneway homes and continue to advocate for innovative housing solutions across North America. We’re passionate about creating beautiful, simple, and elegant spaces. Our team is a mosaic of creativity, dedication, and expertise, and we’re proud of the vibrant culture we’ve cultivated – a place where expertise is valued, teamwork is paramount, and we take pride in helping families while shaping Vancouver’s housing landscape.

What do we build? 

Smallworks builds everything on a single-family lot, except for the single-family home. From a laneway home to an 8-unit multiplex, we are all about housing innovation that elegantly brings gentle density to the single-family neighbourhood. 

The Role:

We’re looking for a dynamic and passionate Designer to join our growing design team. As a key member of our close-knit studio, you will have the opportunity to contribute to diverse projects and grow your skills in a collaborative environment. You will act as the primary contact for your clients, leading projects from conception to construction completion and ensuring each project wholeheartedly meets our client’s expectations and reflects Smallworks’ philosophies. 

The ideal candidate will have a background in architecture, with a preference for candidates with wood-framed, Part 9 experience in the Lower Mainland. 

Your Impact:

• • Client Relationship: Build enduring relationships with clients, understanding their needs and aspirations, and advocating for them with internal and external parties throughout their project.
  • Technical Expertise: Develop design drawings and specifications for building permits and construction, and ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations. 
  • Design Execution: Collaborate with clients to develop floor plans, sections and elevations and produce building envelope and interior details for customised projects.
  • Presentation and Communication: Be the vital link between clients and our team, hosting design presentations and client meetings, and ensuring clarity in all communications.
  • Business Growth: Stay on top of the ever-changing industry by conducting research on materials, building codes, regulations, industry trends, technologies, and design methodologies. 

• Smallworks Spokesman: Be a passionate voice in the housing conversation and a strong advocate for gentle density. 

What We’re Looking For:

• 2+ years of building design experience, ideally wood-framed
• A Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or Design (or sim)
• A thorough understanding of wood-framed construction is a requirement
• Proficiency in Vectorworks software is a strong asset 
• Strong space planning and conceptual design skills
• Knowledge of local building codes and regulations
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills
• Enthusiastic and adaptable with a passion for design excellence
• Strong verbal and written communication skills

Why Smallworks?

• Competitive Salary: $65,000-$70,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities for training and career advancement in a company that values innovation and talent.
• A Collaborative Culture: Be part of a team where creativity, passion, and hard work are appreciated and encouraged.
• Impact: The opportunity to craft a sustainable future for homeowners, families, and neighbourhoods across the lower mainland with innovative housing solutions. 

Additional Requirements:

• Must have a valid driver’s licence.
• Must be eligible to work in Canada.

Ready to Join Us?

If you’re ready to help shape Vancouver’s urban landscape, send your resume, cover letter and portfolio to careers@smallworks.ca, showcasing why you’re the perfect fit for our purpose-driven team.

Smallworks is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.