Northern Trust

Senior Project Architect | Multi-Family Housing

Northern Trust$100K — $130K *
Real Estate & Construction
8 - 10 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of project design and documentation experience, including 5+ years as a Project Architect
  • 8+ years of multi-family housing experience with a robust portfolio
  • Proven experience in construction administration for multi-family housing
  • Licensed Architect required; California licensure preferred
  • Extensive knowledge of construction documents, materials, and techniques
  • Strong communication skills and time management proficiency
  • Expertise in sustainable practices and industry standards

Responsibilities

  • Lead multifamily housing projects from early design through construction close-out
  • Own the technical execution of work, ensuring documentation is compliant and aligned with design vision
  • Guide integrated design teams on multiple concurrent projects or large developments
  • Serve as a firm resource by providing training and mentorship to junior staff
  • Participate in client presentations and represent the firm at industry events
  • Conduct regular site observations, preparing clear field reports and resolving issues with the construction team
  • Oversee all technical documentation throughout the project lifecycle

Benefits

  • Collaborative studio culture in a central DTLA location
  • Opportunity for professional growth within a rapidly expanding firm
  • Engagement in various high-profile projects and innovative design concepts
  • Access to training and workshops to promote continuing education
  • Active participation in industry events and professional organizations
Full Job Description
Overview

A nationally recognized DTLA architecture firm with a global presence is seeking a Senior Project Architect for Construction Administration on a multi-family project in Los Angeles. The firm's diverse portfolio spans high-rise residential, mixed-use, commercial, higher education, and civic work across offices in Southern California, the Bay Area, Texas, the East Coast, and Shanghai. If you're looking to join a collaborative studio culture in the heart of DTLA that is actively growing, this is a great opportunity!

Overall Responsibilities:

As a licensed Architect, you will lead multifamily housing projects from early design through construction close-out, guiding integrated design teams on multiple concurrent efforts or large, complex developments. While this role will initially focus on Construction Administration for a multifamily housing project currently in the field, you will also contribute to other housing projects at various phases of the design process depending on the active project mix. You will own the technical execution of the work, oversee risk management reviews, and ensure that all documentation is coordinated, code-compliant, and aligned with the project's design vision at every phase of construction.

Leadership Duties
  • Serve as a firm-wide resource by providing training, mentorship, and leading internal workshops or seminars.
  • Champion and elevate the studio's reputation as a design-focused, innovation-driven practice.
  • Stay at the forefront of technical innovations and project-type trends, and proactively promote continuing education for staff.
  • Partner with Principals, Project Managers, and Designers to develop compelling marketing materials and project narratives.
  • Participate in client presentations, interviews, and other marketing efforts as a key voice of the firm.
  • Represent the practice in professional organizations, industry events, and community forums.
  • Contribute thought leadership through white papers, articles, and presentations for industry platforms.

Design Leadership

  • Lead design exploration, help define project scope, and guide the development of innovative concepts and methodologies.
  • Manage and coordinate a broad team of consultants, delegating responsibilities effectively and providing clear direction to junior and intermediate staff.
  • Resolve complex technical issues, oversee the design and review of production drawings, maintain project records, and uphold risk management standards while coordinating with planning, building, fire, and other authorities having jurisdiction.
  • Support key management activities-including staffing input, scheduling, and fee or payment review-while focusing primarily on advancing design and technical rigor.
  • Direct the development and review of construction documents to ensure alignment with design intent, building systems integration, construction detailing, and specifications coordination.
  • Respond to bidding inquiries, pre-bid questions, and coordinate with agencies, committees, and officials for project presentations, approvals, and permits.
  • Conduct regular site observations, prepare clear field reports, and collaborate with the construction team to resolve issues in real time.
  • Lead project close-out, including punch lists, coordination of occupancy and substantial completion documentation, and confirmation of final deliverables.
  • Oversee all technical documentation throughout the life of the project, including proposal requests, change orders, scope revisions, and close-out records.


Risk Management

  • Perform comprehensive check-set and risk management reviews at key project milestones.
  • Maintain detailed records of design decisions, material selections, and detailing strategies, and keep the project manual current.
  • Provide strong technical oversight to ensure that all work meets the firm's standards for quality control and quality assurance.


Requirements
  • Minimum of 10 years' experience in project design and documentation, with at least five years as a Project Architect.
  • Minimum 8 years of experience in multi-family housing, with a strong portfolio of completed projects required.
  • Construction administration experience for multi-family housing is required.
  • Architect licensure required; California preferred.
  • Extensive knowledge of construction document preparation, building materials, and construction techniques.
  • Proficiency in dealing with governmental agencies, building codes, and engineering disciplines.
  • Strong communication and time management skills.
  • Demonstrated expertise in sustainable practices and industry standards.
  • Proficiency in relevant software, including Revit, 3D Studio Max, SketchUp, Rhino, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office.
  • Degree in Architecture required; LEED AP certification preferred.
  • Active involvement in industry organizations is advantageous.


Desired Attributes
  • Commitment to design innovation and excellence.
  • Independent, self-directed and self-motivated.
  • Ability to motivate and effectively lead design staff.
  • Highly organized.
  • Values and personality compatible with the Firm's culture.


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About Northern Trust

Northern Trust is a global leader in delivering innovative investment management, asset and fund administration, and fiduciary and banking solutions to corporations, institutions, and affluent individuals. They have evolved with the changing needs of their clients and their world.

Northern Trust Careers

Joining Northern Trust means becoming part of a global financial services institution that is dedicated to providing expert guidance and innovative solutions to its clients. At Northern Trust, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of leadership, diversity, and innovation, which makes us a premier destination for career growth in the financial industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Northern Trust, you will collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the financial sector. Our team is committed to excellence and equipped with a diverse range of skills that contribute to our dynamic environment. Here, you will have the opportunity to lead projects that transform our services and drive significant value for our clients across the globe.

Explore Job Opportunities and Internships

Whether you are starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in the financial industry, Northern Trust offers a variety of job opportunities and internships that will help you achieve your professional goals. From entry-level positions to leadership roles, our company is actively hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and driven to excel.

Innovative Work

Northern Trust is at the forefront of financial innovation. Our employees are encouraged to think creatively and leverage cutting-edge technologies to solve complex problems. By joining our team, you will work on pioneering solutions that redefine the standards of financial services.

Be Part of a Great Team

Our team at Northern Trust is more than just a group of employees – we are a community. We value collaboration, and our culture is built on mutual respect and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Working with us, you will experience a supportive network that is passionate about sharing knowledge and ideas.

Future-Proof Your Career

Northern Trust is dedicated to your professional development. We offer comprehensive benefits, diversity training, and numerous resources to help you grow your career. With our support, you can expand your skills, gain valuable experience, and achieve professional certifications that will enhance your career trajectory.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team

Discover the perfect role for you at Northern Trust by exploring our current job openings that match your skills and interests. We are looking for professionals who are solution-driven and eager to contribute to our legacy of financial excellence.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and professional growth opportunities—all available through our careers blog. At Northern Trust, we ensure that our team members are always ahead in the industry.

Job Alert Emails

Customize your experience by subscribing to job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. At Northern Trust, exciting and rewarding opportunities are always on the horizon, and we are eager to see where your talents can take us. Join Northern Trust today and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse and inclusive workplace. Here, every position is a chance to contribute to something bigger and to turn your job into a meaningful career.
Learn more about Northern Trust
Size
21,100 employees
Market Cap
$18.1 billion
Industry
Net Income
$1.2 billion
Founded
1889
5 Year Trend
+4.9%
Revenue
$6.1 billion
NASDAQ

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