Job Captain role in AEC — architecture engineering construction
AEC Career Library

Job Captain: Role Overview, Responsibilities & 2025 Salary Data

Job Captains serve as the bridge between design and technical production in architecture firms. They coordinate drawing sets, manage project documentation, and ensure construction documents are accurate, complete, and coordinated across all disciplines.

What Does a Job Captain Do?

Job Captains serve as the bridge between design and technical production in architecture firms. They coordinate drawing sets, manage project documentation, and ensure construction documents are accurate, complete, and coordinated across all disciplines.

What Does a Job Captain Responsible For?

  • Lead and coordinate the production of construction documents
  • Manage drawing sets and ensure consistency across all sheets
  • Coordinate with consultants (structural, MEP, civil) to resolve conflicts
  • Review documents for code compliance and constructability
  • Manage project files, standards, and BIM/CAD protocols
  • Support project architects and project managers during design and CA phases
  • Mentor junior designers and drafters on document standards
  • Respond to RFIs and assist with construction administration

Job Captain Qualifications & Requirements

Technical Skills

  • 5-10 years of architecture or construction document experience
  • Proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD
  • Strong knowledge of building codes and construction methods
  • Experience coordinating multidiscipline drawing sets
  • Familiarity with specifications and project closeout documentation

Professional Competencies

  • Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills
  • Clear communicator across project teams
  • Proactive in identifying and resolving document conflicts
  • Ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
  • Collaborative team player

Education & Certifications

Education:

Bachelor's degree in Architecture or Architectural Technology

Certifications:

ARE completion or progress toward licensure preferred; Revit certification a plus

Preferred Qualifications

  • +Experience on commercial, institutional, or mixed-use projects
  • +LEED AP or Green Associate a plus
  • +Experience with Bluebeam and project management software

Job Captain Market Outlook

Path to Project Architect

Job Captains typically advance to Project Architect or Senior Designer roles as they develop design leadership skills.

Typical Career Progression:

1
Project Architect
2
Senior Designer
3
Technical Director
4
Associate Principal

Job Captain Salary Ranges (2025)

$65,000 - $95,000

Entry Level: $55,000 - $70,000

Mid Level: $70,000 - $90,000

Senior Level: $90,000 - $110,000

Salaries vary by experience, location, company size, and specialization.

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