Founded 40 years ago, FXCollaborative has built up a portfolio of projects across the globe like the Hunter's Point Campus, 35XV, the New York Times Building in collaboration with Renzo Piano, and the upcoming 3 Hudson Boulevard tower. On top of that, the New York and Washington D.C.-based firm takes pride in their collaborative work environment — and they get to have fun while they're at it. Human Resources Manager Shannon Rodriguez took a moment with Archinect to share what the practice looks for in potential hires as well as a glimpse into their office culture.

1. What positions are most in-demand at your firm? 

The most in-demand positions are Intermediate-Level Architects with 10-12 years of experience and candidates that have REVIT experience.

2. What are the three most important qualities for any new hire to have at your firm?  

I would say, and in no particular order, ambitious, flexible, and collaborative.

3. What is the best thing about working for your firm? 

FXCollaborative's culture is truly one-of-a-kind. You could say that FXCollaborative is like a family–we support one another and the Partners and Principals are a very approachable and collaborative group of professionals. 

4. What is the most challenging thing about working for your firm?

Many of our projects are quite fast-paced and with very tight deadlines.

5. What information do you expect potential candidates to know about your firm's practice and work?

I expect candidates to know about FXCollaborative and our work. They should definitely do their homework on the firm, visit our website, and search the internet for current press about the firm. Most importantly, they should be able to articulate why they want to work with us.

6. What are some “red flags” for you in applications?  

Definitely typos and grammatical errors; jumping from job-to-job frequently, and sending your resume to multiple firms on the same email!

7. When interviewing, how do you describe your company ethos? What part of your working environment do you promote with potential candidates?

When I meet with potential candidates, I review specific job requirements and responsibilities, and discuss various workgroups in the office, our mentoring program, and all of professional development opportunities and social activities. 

8. After reviewing their CV, what are you looking to learn about an applicant from an interview? 

I would say that with each candidate, I look for four key things: (1) what is their skill set, (2) what type of projects they’ve worked on, (3) what was their role was on those projects, and lastly, (4) will they be the “right fit” for FXCollaborative.

9. What’s the most common mistake candidates make when applying to work with you?

Applying for a position they are not qualified or overly qualified.

10. What kind of technical skills are absolutely essential for applicants? 

REVIT, Autocad

11. What kind of training do new hires undergo when they’re first starting?  

There is an Onboarding process that involves HR New Hire Policy & Procedures Training, IT training, Timesheet/Expense Report Training, Project Management Training, Technology Training, in addition to continuous training and seminars throughout the course of employment.

12. Do you have an internship program? If so, briefly describe. 

Yes, we offer summer internships and externships that promote direct training opportunities and hands-on experience to gain an overall understanding of our firm/studio functions. Our internships offer students an in-depth opportunity to compliment formal education and jumpstart their career by gaining marketable work-experience, and be introduced to opportunities that will build upon their existing knowledge.

13. What additional social activities do you do as an office?  

We like to promote work/life balance at FXCollaborative, and offer many social activities throughout the year. Activities range from our annual Summer Event, Holiday Party, and Kids Day, to FXCollaborative Gallery openings, Sketch Crawls, and firm memberships to various local organizations and museums, such as MoMA, the Center for Architecture, The Design Trust, Architecture League and Open House New York to name a few. We also support continuing education through seminars and industry events. 

14. What are three words that your employees might use to describe your firm? 

Collaborative. Thoughtful. Innovative.

15. Which areas of your firm are growing the fastest?  

Cultural, Educational, Institutional, and Residential.

16. If a candidate had the choice between you and another firm, what argument would you use to win them over?

FXCollaborative has a 40-year history of designing amazing projects all over the world. We are known for our commitment to innovative design inspired by urbanism, technology and sustainable strategies. We are a mid-sized firm and encourage all employees to have their own voice. 

Interested in joining FXCollaborative? Check out their Archinect profile to see if they have any current listings. To see more active listings from hundreds of firms, browse Archinect's Job Board.