Project Manager - Architecture

Job Title: Project Manager
Department: Architecture
Reports to: Managing Director/Studio Director
FLSA Status: Exempt


GENERAL SUMMARY
The Project Manager is responsible for the comprehensive leadership, management, and execution of architectural projects from initial client engagement through project closeout. This role serves as the primary point of accountability for project performance, including design quality, technical execution, client satisfaction, financial performance, schedule adherence, and team coordination.

The Project Manager oversees all phases of the architectural process, including pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, permitting, bidding, and construction administration. This position ensures projects are delivered in alignment with client objectives, firm standards, contractual obligations, regulatory requirements, and profitability targets.

The Project Manager works closely with management, clients, consultants, and internal team members to ensure seamless coordination, proactive problem-solving, and successful project outcomes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
 The Project Manager oversees the work of architectural staff assigned to projects. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Project Leadership and Management

• Serve as the project manager responsible for overall project delivery, execution, and performance

• Develop and maintain project work plans, schedules, milestones, and deliverables

• Monitor project scope, budget, schedule, and staffing to ensure alignment with contractual and financial objectives

• Identify potential project risks and implement mitigation strategies

• Lead internal project kickoff meetings and establish project execution plans

• Provide regular project status updates to firm leadership and stakeholders

• Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle

• Establish and maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, developers, and stakeholders

• Lead client meetings, presentations, and design reviews

• Clearly communicate project progress, schedule, scope changes, and budget implications

• Manage client expectations and proactively address concerns

• Support business development efforts, including participation in proposals, interviews, and client presentations

Design Leadership and Oversight

• Lead the development and execution of architectural design concepts aligned with project goals and client vision

• Ensure design solutions meet functional, aesthetic, budgetary, and regulatory requirements

• Provide design direction and technical guidance to project team members

• Review drawings and models to ensure design intent is accurately executed

• Collaborate with interior designers, planners, and technical specialists to ensure cohesive project design

Technical Oversight and Documentation

• Oversee the preparation and coordination of architectural drawings and construction documents

• Ensure construction documents are complete, coordinated, and compliant with applicable building codes, zoning ordinances, accessibility requirements, and regulatory standards

• Review drawings and specifications for technical accuracy, constructability, and quality control

• Ensure adherence to drafting and documentation standards

• Facilitate internal and external quality assurance and quality control reviews

Consultant Coordination

• Select, coordinate, and manage external consultants, including, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, civil engineers, landscape architects, code consultants, and specialty consultants

• Ensure consultant work is fully integrated and coordinated with architectural design

• Review consultant deliverables for consistency, completeness, and alignment with project objectives

• Facilitate coordination meetings and resolve conflicts between disciplines

Financial Management and Project Profitability

• Develop and manage project budgets and staffing plans

• Monitor project financial performance, including labor utilization, expenses, and profitability

• Review and approve project timesheets and labor allocations

• Track project costs and identify variances from budget

• Prepare and review client invoices in coordination with accounting

• Monitor accounts receivable and assist with collections as necessary

• Manage scope changes and prepare additional services proposals when required

Construction Administration

• Oversee construction administration services, including, reviewing shop drawings, submittals, and samples; responding to Requests for Information (RFIs); preparing supplemental instructions and clarifications; conducting site visits and field observations; and monitoring construction progress for conformance with design intent

• Assist in resolving construction related issues and coordinating with contractors and consultants

• Support project closeout, including punch lists and final documentation

Regulatory and Permitting Coordination

• Coordinate with local jurisdictions and regulatory agencies to secure approvals and permits

• Ensure project compliance with building codes, zoning ordinances, life safety codes, and accessibility requirements

• Address plan review comments and revise documents as necessary

Internal Coordination and Communication

• Facilitate effective communication among project team members and firm leadership

• Coordinate project schedules, staffing, and resource allocation

• Maintain organized project files, documentation, and correspondence

• Ensure compliance with firm policies, standards, and procedures

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• Advanced knowledge of architectural design, detailing, and construction methods

• Strong understanding of building systems, materials, and construction processes

• Comprehensive knowledge of construction documents and specifications

• Thorough understanding of applicable building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility requirements

• Ability to review and coordinate complex technical drawings

• Strong project planning, organizational, and time management skills

• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously

• Strong financial management and budgeting skills

• Ability to monitor and maintain project schedules and profitability

• Ability to anticipate project challenges and implement effective solutions

• Strong leadership and team management abilities

• Ability to mentor and guide architectural staff

• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills

• Ability to effectively interact with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills

• Proficiency in the following software is required: Autodesk Revit (advanced proficiency required); AutoCAD; Bluebeam Revu; and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

• Project management software (such as Deltek, Vantagepoint, or similar) preferred

• Familiarity with the following is preferred: BIM coordination tools (Navisworks or similar) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign)

• Maintains a professional presence during virtual meetings. When participating in meetings through Microsoft Teams or other video conferencing platforms, employees are expected to be on camera unless otherwise approved or circumstances prevent camera use

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Architecture 

• Professional licensure as a Registered Architect preferred (or ability to obtain licensure)

• Minimum of 10–20 years of professional experience

• Demonstrated experience managing architectural projects of varying size and complexity

• Experience managing rollout, commercial, mixed-use, multi-family, or institutional projects preferred