Design Principal

Work at HMC•Sacramento, CA

9d•$121,582 - $181,923•Hybrid

About The Position

HMC Architects is 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.

Requirements

Minimum 12 years of experience producing and coordinating architectural documents across all phases, including project management
Minimum 5 years of experience in healthcare, education, or civic projects, with strong technical expertise and knowledge of DSA, HCAI, or other regulatory agencies
Minimum 2 years in a senior leadership role guiding teams and clients through technical project aspects
Licensed Architect (state of practice preferred)
Demonstrated ability to make decisions with sound judgment, transparency, and alignment with design intent
Strong verbal and written communication skills across varied audiences
Ability to set goals, prioritize tasks, and manage time effectively
Broad creativity and a commitment to design excellence
Strong knowledge of building systems, materials, and appropriate technologies
Proficiency with software and multimedia tools used in design, documentation, and presentation
Comprehensive understanding of applicable building codes
Thorough understanding of HMCs design process and deliverables
Ability to be on-site in an HMC studio at least three days per week

Responsibilities

Model and promote HMCs values, culture, and mission; serve as an advocate for staff, clients, and the community
Drive accountability across the studio for adherence to HMCs 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
Contribute to the development and refinement of HMCs firmwide design goals and philosophy
Ensure project design outcomes align with HMCs design vision
Lead Schematic Design and Design Development for projects of all sizes
Maintain design integrity from early concept through construction
Research and explore alternative systems, materials, and innovative approaches
Lead documentation efforts including 3D modeling, physical models, and material research in collaboration with the Project Manager
Direct the preparation of design communication materials such as renderings, diagrams, presentations, and material boards
Facilitate design charrettes, critiques, and team pin-ups
Promote design excellence and serve as a design leader and mentor
Review cost models, estimates, and plans; lead design-related value analysis
Ensure design decisions, materials, and systems meet firm and client standards while staying within budget
Lead coordination of design intent through construction documents and construction administration
Review documents to ensure quality, coordination, and compliance with deliverable and client standards
Oversee and resolve design issues during construction for all assigned projects
Establish standards for documenting the design process
Ensure design documents comply with client standards and HMC protocols
Develop training materials to support staff design development
Procure and manage approximately $1M in gross project revenue per year and secure a minimum of $500K in new contracts annually through repeat or new clients
Engage with existing clients to identify opportunities for additional work
Maintain and strengthen long-term client relationships
Elevate client concerns appropriately to the PIC as needed
Represent HMC through public speaking at client, industry, and community events
Assist in developing written and visual materials for project pursuits and interviews
Participate in marketing interviews and proposal efforts
Attend industry conferences, networking events, and community gatherings
Develop and maintain a strong network of clients and industry partners
Promote HMC Design across the industry and within the community
Help secure work aligned with practice and studio goals
Serve as a visible leader in the community or within HMCs market segments
Participate in fee and contract negotiations with clients and consultants
Contribute articles to professional architecture and construction publications