After graduating from Pennsylvania State University in 1978, Jay worked for two years in Chester County and Philadelphia. He was hired by Gym Wilson Architects in 1980 and returned to Long Beach Island, his childhood summer home since 1964. Jay completed his internship with Gym Wilson Architects and became licensed to practice in NJ and PA in 1986. That same year, he started Madden & Ryan Architects with fellow PSU grad and GWA employee Mike Ryan. The partnership lasted three years, and in 1989 Jay founded Jay Madden Architect in Harvey Cedars.

The majority of the firm's work is single family, new homes and additions/renovations on LBI, however there are always active commercial or municipal projects along with regional work on the boards as well. In the firm's 24 year history, over 600 homes have been built, enlarged, and renovated.