Northern Trust

Senior Project Architect

Northern Trust • $110K — $130K *
San Jose, CA 95123In-Person
Real Estate & Construction
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 10+ years of project design and documentation experience, with 5+ years as a Project Architect.
  • Professional experience in residential and affordable housing, with hospitality experience preferred.
  • Strong background in construction document preparation and construction administration.
  • Familiarity with building codes and engineering disciplines, especially in a governmental context.
  • Excellent verbal, written, and technical communication skills.
  • Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, and rendering tools like 3D Studio Max and Enscape.
  • Licensed Architect required, with CA licensure and LEED AP preferred.

Responsibilities

  • Lead integrated design teams on multiple concurrent projects.
  • Conduct risk management reviews and maintain project documentation.
  • Oversee design execution ensuring code compliance and alignment with design intent.
  • Champion and promote design innovation within the studio's culture.
  • Manage the coordination of consultants and guide junior staff.
  • Prepare and present marketing materials and project narratives to clients.
  • Conduct site observations and collaborate with construction teams on project issues.

Benefits

  • Collaborative, design-driven work environment.
  • Opportunities for mentorship and training.
  • Participation in industry events and professional organizations.
  • Access to continuing education and professional development resources.
  • Involvement in a diverse portfolio of meaningful projects.
Full Job Description
Overview

A nationally recognized San Jose architecture firm with a global presence is seeking a Senior Project Architect to lead complex projects from early design through construction close-out. The firm's diverse portfolio spans residential, affordable housing, hospitality, mixed-use, commercial, higher education, and civic work across offices in California, Texas, the East Coast, and Shanghai. This is an excellent opportunity to join a collaborative, design-driven studio in the heart of San Jose and make a meaningful impact across a growing portfolio.

Overall Responsibilities

As a licensed Architect, you will guide integrated design teams through design and technical development on multiple concurrent projects or large, complex assignments. You will own the technical execution of the work, lead risk management reviews, and ensure that documentation is coordinated, code-compliant, and aligned with design intent through every phase of construction.

Leadership Duties
  • Serve as a firm-wide resource by providing training, mentorship, and internal workshops or seminars.
  • Champion and elevate the studio's reputation as a design-focused, innovation-driven practice.
  • Stay current on technical innovations and project-type trends and proactively promote continuing education for staff.
  • Partner with Principals, Project Managers, and Designers to develop 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, delegate responsibilities, and provide clear direction to junior and intermediate staff.
  • Resolve complex technical issues, oversee the design and review of production drawings, maintain project records, and coordinate with planning, building, fire, and other authorities having jurisdiction.
  • Support staffing, scheduling, fee estimating, and payment review while focusing primarily on design and technical refinement.
  • Direct the development and review of construction documents for alignment with design intent, building systems, detailing, and specifications.
  • Respond to bidding inquiries and coordinate with agencies, committees, and officials for presentations, approvals, and permits.
  • Conduct site observations, prepare field reports, and collaborate with construction teams to resolve issues.
  • Lead project close-out, including punch lists, occupancy and substantial completion documentation, and final deliverables.
  • Oversee technical documentation throughout the project lifecycle, 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 project manuals current.
  • Provide strong technical oversight so projects meet the firm's quality control and quality assurance standards.

Requirements
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in project design and documentation, including at least five years as a Project Architect.
  • Professional experience in residential and affordable housing strongly preferred; hospitality experience is also highly desirable.
  • Substantial experience in construction document preparation, construction administration, field observation, building materials, specifications, and construction techniques.
  • Experience working with governmental agencies, building and zoning codes, and engineering disciplines.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication, leadership, organization, and time management skills.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of sustainable practices, industry standards, and quality control.
  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, SketchUp or Rhino, and rendering tools such as 3D Studio Max, Maxwell Render, Twinmotion, or Enscape.
  • Professional degree in Architecture or a related field, or equivalent experience; graduate degree preferred.
  • Architecture license required; California licensure preferred. LEED AP preferred.
  • Active involvement in local, state, or national industry organizations is a plus.

Desired Attributes
  • Commitment to design innovation and excellence.
  • Independent, self-directed, and self-motivated.
  • Ability to motivate and effectively lead design staff.
  • Highly organized, collaborative, and comfortable managing multiple priorities.
  • Values and personality compatible with a collaborative, design-driven firm 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
Finance & Insurance
Net Income
$1.2 billion
Founded
1889
5 Year Trend
+4.9%
Revenue
$6.1 billion
NASDAQ
NTRS
* Ladders Estimates

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