Design Principal

Job Description

Job Description

Who We Are

HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to “design for good” drives everything we do. And our ownership culture creates alignment and increased commitment to that mission, keeping us on track to being successful.

What We Do

Founded with the purpose of anticipating community needs, HMC aims to create designs that have a positive impact, now and into the future. We focus primarily on opportunities to have the most direct contribution to communities–through healthcare, education, and civic spaces.

Job Summary

We are looking for a Design Principal who will provide strategic leadership and creative direction for our practice, office, or studio. This individual will oversee the design process for major projects across all phases, ensure design excellence, and maintain strong alignment with client goals and contractual requirements. The ideal candidate is an inspiring design leader with a proven ability to guide teams, elevate project outcomes, support business development efforts, and mentor design talent.

The position is located in Sacramento, California. This position offers a hybrid work arrangement with flexible hours, requiring three days in the office and the option to work remotely on Mondays and Fridays.

Responsibilities

Leadership

• Model and promote HMC’s values, culture, and mission; serve as an advocate for staff, clients, and the community
• Drive accountability across the studio for adherence to HMC’s technical protocols and standards
• Oversee multiple clients and projects simultaneously across all phases
• Direct and coordinate project work with internal teams and consultants
• Provide coaching, mentoring, and performance-enhancing feedback to assigned team members, focusing on technical proficiency
• Monitor employee performance and provide timely and constructive feedback
• Establish strong working relationships with practice leaders, clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies
• Deliver assignments to support staff, consultants, and vendors clearly and professionally
• Resolve issues involving team members or consultants
• Collaborate with studio leaders to foster unified and supportive leadership
• Ensure consistency and integration of technical resources across project teams from pursuit through completion
• Develop work plans and schedules for technical components in coordination with project managers and other Principals

Design / Technical

Business Development / Client Engagement

Minimum Requirements

The salary range for this position is $121,582 - $181,923.

The actual salary offered for this position will vary depending on multiple factors including the candidate’s qualification, education, position knowledge, work experience, skills, ability, work location, and internal incumbent compensation for similar roles. We do not anticipate individuals hired into this position will start at or near the top half of the range listed; the decision will be based on each individual case. The salary range listed above does not include other compensation elements such as discretionary bonus opportunities, employee stock ownership grants, paid time off, medical insurance, and other wage and benefit opportunities.