JOB SUMMARY: The Project Architect (PA) provides technical leadership and oversight for architectural projects from pre-design through construction closeout. This role leads the development and coordination of building design, ensuring all documents are accurate, fully integrated, and code-compliant prior to issuance. The PA serves as the primary technical resource on projects, guiding design decisions, maintaining quality standards, and supporting successful project delivery in collaboration with the Project Manager and broader team.
REPORTS TO: Principal
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:Technical Design Leadership:- Lead and own the architectural design of each project, from concept through construction documents
- Establish the program of requirements and develop conceptual design solutions in coordination with the Project Manager and client
- Serve as the lead technical authority on projects and subject matter expert on building systems, code strategy, and design coordination
- Formulate code compliance strategy and own all code interpretation decisions throughout the project lifecycle
- Direct building material and system selection, and author or oversee project specifications
- Implement High Performance Design (LEED, CHPS, etc.) when required as part of project objectives
Document Coordination and Quality:- Own drawing and specification coordination across all disciplines
- Lead discipline integration and technical coordination with engineering professionals - in-house and outside consultants
- Oversee architectural BIM models for compliance with office standards for graphics, model structure, and data management
- Develop and/or oversee complete and constructible detailing for the architectural work
- Certify technical completeness of documents prior to milestone issuance
Construction Administration:- Lead submittal review and approval / rejection decisions
- Prepare technical responses to Requests for Information (RFIs)
- Evaluate substitutions and protect design intent through construction
- Lead constructability review implementation
- Confirm as-built record completeness and punch list closure at project closeout
PM function - Cost Estimating and Other:- Support the Project Manager in client presentations, additional services justification, change order technical evaluation, risk identification, etc.
- Coordinate with the PM prior to finalizing any technical decision that materially affects cost or schedule
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:- Bachelor's or Master's degree in architecture required
- Active board licensure required
- Minimum of 5 to 15+ years of architectural experience
- Experience with public-sector projects (K-12, higher education, municipal) strongly preferred
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:- Demonstrated knowledge of all principles of architecture, including building codes, zoning, and regulatory requirements
- Highly proficient in BIM software, Revit preferred
- Proficient in architectural visualization software
- Proficient in architectural specification software, SpecLink preferred.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office
- Experience with NewForma, BQE Core, or similar project information management software
- Highly proficient in building construction methods and materials and in the preparation of construction drawings and specifications
- Strong understanding of discipline coordination across structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems
- Excellent verbal and written skills, including ability to present to others in small and large group formats
- Excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, with a priority on code compliance, technical quality, and constructability
- Ability to manage technical coordination across multiple projects simultaneously
