Project Lead and Design Technician

About Draftline

Draftline specializes in customized architectural design solutions with a focus on understanding each project's unique requirements. Balancing aesthetics, budgets, and practical considerations, we bring our clients' visions to reality by managing everything from concept through to consent. Our services encompass architectural drawings, 3D renderings, record drawings, design adjustments, and the coordination of engineers and specialists as required. We streamline complex processes such as council submissions and approvals, ensuring all plans conform to regulatory standards while providing clear, site-specific planning guidance to clients. Our objective is straightforward: make the journey effortless and produce build-ready designs that truly reflect our clients' aspirations.

Role Overview

We are seeking Project Leads and Design Technicians for our Christchurch office to fully own projects throughout their lifecycle—from initial client engagement to design, building consent, and final completion. This hands-on role involves managing the entire project journey, fostering strong client relationships, crafting effective and innovative design solutions, coordinating internal teams and external consultants, and ensuring projects are delivered punctually, up to quality standards and compliant with the New Zealand Building Code and relevant regulations.

As the main client liaison, you will understand client needs, provide consistent updates, and manage expectations. Coordination of drawings, documentation, consultants, and consent requirements will be key to guarantee accuracy and project readiness. Managing conflicting priorities across multiple ongoing projects, quick problem solving, decisive action, and self-directed initiative are essential. Collaboration within the design and project teams is vital, including knowledge sharing and mutual support, alongside opportunities to enhance design processes, documentation, project execution, and customer satisfaction.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• 3 to 5 years' experience in architectural design and documentation, ideally within New Zealand's residential or commercial construction sectors.
• A valid Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) Class 1 – Design certification is mandatory.
• Strong track record producing comprehensive architectural drawings and documentation primarily for residential projects; commercial experience is advantageous but not mandatory.
• Experience managing projects from early client interaction through design, consent procurement, and project finalization.
• In-depth knowledge of the New Zealand Building Code, Building Act, and applicable standards.
• Familiarity with building consent documentation and approval workflows.
• Proven ability to juggle multiple projects and tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality deliverables.
• Collaborative experience working with clients, architects, engineers, consultants, and other stakeholders during design and consent phases.
• Strong appreciation for design quality, documentation standards, and project delivery methodologies.
• Hands-on expertise with Archicad design software is required.
• Excellent technical design skills complemented by keen attention to detail.
• A proactive mindset with confidence to make informed decisions and take ownership of projects.
• Effective communication and relationship-building skills to foster trust and manage client expectations efficiently.
• A team-oriented attitude, eager to share knowledge, support colleagues and contribute to a high-performance design team culture.

Why Work at Draftline?

By joining Draftline, you become part of a growing and energetic firm where your contributions genuinely matter and are acknowledged. You'll engage with a broad spectrum of residential and commercial projects enhancing your technical skills and contribute to quality outcomes for clients.

We provide competitive pay and a supportive environment that values professionalism, individual work styles, and personal character. Our culture is grounded in supportiveness, practicality, collaboration, and authenticity—where knowledge sharing, celebrating achievements, and camaraderie are foundational.

This role offers ample opportunities for professional growth, skill expansion, and career advancement within a team committed to continuous improvement and excellence.

Additional Information

Applicants must hold New Zealand residency to be eligible. Please prepare a CV and a cover letter detailing your experience, motivation for applying, current location, and willingness to relocate if necessary.