Junior Associate – Banks Architecture & Permitting Inc.

Organization Description:

This is a full-time, permanent position based at our office in downtown Vancouver, requiring 40 hours per week with flexible daily start and end times. Employees in this role are expected to be in the office 3 to 4 days per week, with additional time required for site visits as projects dictate. Remote work arrangements for the remaining day(s) may be discussed based on project requirements.

Banks Architecture & Permitting Inc. was founded in October 2024 to serve small business owners and multi-family residential developers throughout British Columbia. The firm was established by two founding partners: an architect and a liquor licensing and permitting specialist.

Our business model differs from a traditional architectural practice. This role is best suited to a candidate seeking a genuine understanding of business operations, client relationships, permitting requirements, and building code compliance, rather than design-focused work. The firm is in an active growth phase, and this hire represents a key step in establishing our permanent architectural team.

The majority of our projects involve fast-turnaround permitting and code compliance work that helps commercial space owners across British Columbia bring new operations or revenue opportunities to market. We have an especially strong presence in the hospitality sector. We also maintain a growing portfolio of new construction multi family residential, including strategic partnership with a modular construction company pursuing residential projects, an area the firm intends to expand significantly.

The firm's founders also co-own an AI solutions company that develops automation tools applied to permitting workflows and modular building project delivery. Employees in this role will have direct visibility into how these tools are developed and applied to real project work. Candidates with an interest in automation, technology, and systems thinking are strongly encouraged to apply.

This position reports directly to our Senior Project Manager, with regular check-ins regarding workload, project assignments, and progress toward more independent permit submissions.

We offer an alternative to the traditional architectural career path: a non-hierarchical, outcomes-focused working environment. The successful candidate will bring thoughtful initiative to their work and can expect accelerated exposure to permitting and code compliance responsibilities relative to comparable junior positions. The role will include ongoing training in building code analysis and problem-solving.

Job Title:

Junior Associate – Banks Architecture & Permitting Inc.

Job Description:

Job Responsibilities

This role combines administrative, technical, and permitting responsibilities. Over time, and with demonstrated capability, responsibilities are expected to grow toward greater client contact, project ownership, and mentorship of future team members, including students.

Administrative

• Maintain and update project task lists and schedules
• Prepare permit application paperwork and manage client correspondence
• Help develop and refine internal processes and documentation as the firm scales

Architectural

• Build and maintain a branded component library in Revit to speed up drawing delivery
• Draft drawings from existing as-builts
• Measure and document existing commercial spaces
• Prepare permit ready drawing packages
• Create diagrams and presentation material for modular building projects and other larger-scale work

Business and Permitting

• Accompany the architect on site visits and client/project meetings
• Prepare and submit minor permits under supervision, progressing toward independent submissions
• Support and help implement process improvements that streamline permitting documentation across both architectural and other permit types
• Opportunity to contribute directly to larger modular and multi-family residential projects as they scale
• Prioritize open, friendly, and consistent communication with clients and consultants.

Required Skills

• Degree in Architecture, Architectural Studies, or a related combined Engineering / Architectural discipline; candidates may or may not be currently pursuing formal AIBC licensure
• Intern Architect applicants must be registered with the AIBC
• Co-op placement, internship, or summer program experience at an architecture firm is preferred
• Proficient in Revit
• Comfortable with spreadsheets
• Strong English writing skills
• Working knowledge of, or strong interest in, the BC Building Code and Vancouver Building Bylaw
• Construction knowledge sufficient to interpret existing plans is an asset
• Genuine interest in business operations, systems, and technology
• Comfortable with providing a high level of service to our clients, via comfort and imitative taking to talk on the phone with our clients, email, and text with friendly communication.

Professional Development, Growth and Advancement

The firm supports employees working toward architectural licensure. Permitting and code compliance work completed in this role may be applied toward Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) hour requirements, and time will be made available to support examination preparation as needed. Candidates with a relevant architecture or engineering degree who are not currently pursuing formal AIBC licensure are equally welcome to apply.

The firm is developing standard operating procedures to develop specialized knowledge for our unique position in the industry, and the founders are committed to taking the time to train and guide new team members and support a long-term career at Banks. As the firm continues to grow, this position offers a defined path of advancement in title and scope of responsibility.

As we continue to expand our services and service area, there will be a growing number of unique opportunities that will provide varying possibilities to progression of ones career for those willing to commit to the success of the firm.

What We Offer

As our team is still relatively small (6 people), and our workforce is currently spanning across continents, we try to flexibly accommodate each individual on the team recognizing each of us has their own responsibilities and priorities within and outside of work. We work more as a collective on an outcome and priority basis versus a deadline and time tracked method to measure success. We do this because we want to create an environment that balances exceptional service to our clients with a sustainable quality of life working at Banks. It is our hope that the successful applicant recognizes that the success of the firm sometimes requires going above and beyond, and in return, we like to do the same.

In addition, here are some of the tangible benefits to working with us:

• A fast track into real permitting and code compliance experience, well beyond what most junior roles offer
• Direct mentorship from the founding architect
• Exposure to both short cycle small commercial projects and larger modular residential work
• A growing firm with a defined path for advancement in title and responsibility

Workplace and Commuting

The office will relocate to a larger ground floor unit at 552 Beatty St, in downtown Vancouver, with good transit access, by the time the successful applicant is hired. There is no on-site vehicle parking, however a parkade is located across the street at the expense of the applicant. The office will offer secure bicycle parking within the office and a shower is available for active transportation users.

Compensation and Benefits

Estimated range: $55,000–$65,000 CAD annually, depending on experience, education level, and demonstrated Revit/code proficiency. This range is provided in accordance with the BC Pay Transparency Act.

• Two weeks of paid vacation (to start)
• Extended office closure during the winter holiday period (Generally from Christmas Eve to January 2^nd, depending on holidays and where the weekends land)
• Additional flex days for single or partial days off at the discretion of leadership, upon completion of the probationary period.
• A health benefit budget on top of the posted salary of $2500 per year per employee, upon completion of the probationary period.
• Banks will cover the cost of AIBC professional dues, and at the discretion of leadership, various professional education programs where relevant to the firm and applicant.

Start Date and Terms of Employment

The firm is open to candidates available for an immediate start. This position includes a standard three-month probationary period.

Additional Information

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada.

How To Apply:

Please send a cover letter and CV to jamie@banksarchitect.ca