Twenty-person architectural studio based in the Bay Area is seeking accomplished designers and project architects for a vast and exceptional 10,000+ acre ranch and retreat in the northern Rocky Mountains. Our studio focuses on bespoke residential projects and other special commissions. The master plan for this private ranch features numerous components including family residential buildings, indoor and outdoor recreational facilities, conservation and livestock structures, activity centers and work-force housing.
Interested applicants should have at least 5 – 10 years of custom residential or hospitality experience. Ideal candidates will balance very strong design ability with technical expertise. Experience in mountain communities preferred but not required. Weekly presence in our San Francisco studio is expected.
Overview The Project Architect develops leadership and design management skills by working with and learning from senior staff on larger projects and ultimately applying what is learned on small to medium projects. Taking direction from senior staff and Principals while directing and training those more junior, the Project Architect strengthens management skills and understanding of the firm’s design and business standards through their project work.
Duties and Responsibilities Architectural Projects • Design: Communicate ideas with freehand sketches; exhibit a strong understanding of the relationship between plans, sections and elevations; develop design concepts; understand and integrate the effects of other disciplines on design; lead design or support the lead designer at all scales (i.e. site planning, aesthetics and detailing). • Technical/Production: Develop simple to moderately complex details; understand specifications and their role in construction documents; direct and/or participate actively in project teams; organize construction documents; demonstrate/develop CAD/BIM fluency and manage related production; coordinate consultant work, support and follow direction of Project Manager and/or Principal in related areas. Expected utilization rate: 75-80% • Codes/Approvals (Entitlements): Acquire knowledge of the relationship between planning codes and site and building design. • Code/Approvals (Building Code): Acquire knowledge and understanding of codes as applied to production; support Project Manager or Principals in code research and negotiation. • Contract Administration and Construction Phase Services: Understand the architect/owner/contractor roles and responsibilities in CA, including General Conditions of the Contract for Construction; perform CA tasks on smaller projects with oversight from Project Manager, or senior staff when in the role of Project Manager. • Management (Internal): Track fees and organize work plan or assist PM in doing so; understand contract requirements in relation to budget, schedule and scope of work; appropriately document project progression as outlined in the PM and Operations Manuals. • Management (External): Assist in coordination and preparation of consultant, client, and community meetings. • Negotiation: Develop fee estimates and work plans with guidance of senior staff or assist Project Manager in doing so.
Client Relationship Promotional: Support existing relationships with clients, consultants etc. through design, documentation, and construction phases. Communication and Professional: Communicate constructively and effectively with peers; demonstrate professional writing skills; organize information with graphic clarity; tune skills in giving presentations and drafting letters and proposals to clients. Professional Characteristics: Demonstrate sound ethics and good judgment; inspire trust; exhibit values compatible with those of firm; contribute to profession and community.
Additional duties This position requires the flexibility to accept additional responsibilities and duties at the discretion of the Principals.
Qualifications Professional degree in Architecture, 5 or more years’ experience, and proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit. Active pursuit of an architectural license in the State of California, and maintenance of those licenses are required.
