Project Architect

Project Architect

Locations: Cedar Rapids, IA • Des Moines, IA • Minneapolis, MN • Madison, WI

Schedule: Flexible | Core hours 9:00–4:00 | 1 WFH day/week

About the Opportunity

Our client is seeking an experienced Project Architect to join our studio as part of a collaborative, close-knit team that operates with the mindset of a family—not a corporate machine. This role is open due to a combination of growth and a planned replacement, creating an opportunity for a strong Project Architect to step in, take ownership, and immediately contribute to active projects.

If you’re someone who thrives on client leadership, technical excellence, and mentoring others, while still enjoying flexibility and trust—you’ll feel at home here.

What You’ll Do

As a Project Architect, you will have full responsibility for managing projects from concept through construction, serving as the primary point of contact for clients while leading internal and consultant teams.

Project & Client Leadership

• Lead 2–3 projects simultaneously, depending on size and complexity.
• Serve as the primary client liaison—owning schedules, budgets, scope, and communication.
• Deliver projects ranging from small renovations to $100M+ developments.
• Market sectors include K-12 education, public safety, and other diverse civic and commercial projects.
• Build long-term client relationships, driving repeat work through strong execution.

Project Planning & Execution

• Develop a strategic “plan of attack” at the start of each project—setting cadence, milestones, and roles.
• Coordinate all administrative and technical project efforts for efficient delivery.
• Identify team strengths, gaps, and risks early to ensure successful outcomes.
• Prepare fee estimates, proposals, scopes of work, and contracts.

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Lead and coordinate internal teams, consultants, and subconsultants.
• Mentor team members through hands-on leadership—working in the trenches when needed.
• Set clear expectations, make confident decisions, and foster accountability.
• Maintain weekly check-ins and structured communication rhythms.

Technical Excellence

• Oversee construction documents, detailing, and code compliance.
• Utilize Revit, SpecLink, internal checklists, and Excel-based reviews to maintain quality and consistency.
• Balance standardized workflows with professional judgment and flexibility.

What Success Looks Like (First 6–12 Months)

• Seamlessly step into active projects and build trust with clients and teams.
• Deliver projects on schedule and within budget.
• Establish yourself as a reliable leader and mentor within the studio.
• Strengthen client relationships that lead to repeat business.

Who Thrives Here

• Architects who are organized, collaborative, and humble leaders.
• Professionals who value transparency, autonomy, and horizontal leadership.
• Those who enjoy variety, complexity, and meaningful client relationships.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
• 10+ years of professional experience.
• Licensed Architect (required).
• Proven experience managing complex projects from design through construction.
• Strong client-facing communication and leadership skills.

Why Our Client

• Close-knit studio culture with genuine relationships.
• Flexible work environment with trust and autonomy.
• Variety of meaningful, high-impact projects.
• Opportunity to influence best practices and studio growth.
• Competitive compensation and bonus opportunity.