Managing Architect at ADU Express
About The Position
ADU Express is hiring an on-site Managing Architect to lead architecture across its internal ADU and multifamily portfolio in Los Angeles. This is an in-house role with a design-build developer rather than a traditional design studio. The architect will set design strategy, guide projects through permitting in complex Los Angeles jurisdictions, and maintain quality and buildability from concept through Ready-to-Issue (RTI). The role works closely with project managers and the construction team to connect development goals with coordinated, construction-ready drawings. The portfolio consists of ADU and multifamily projects built at scale. The position is based at the company’s Gardena office, with occasional trips to Los Angeles city offices for permitting and plan-check corrections. The schedule is Monday through Friday in the office.
Requirements
- Active California Architect license.
- At least 5 years of experience in multifamily, ADU, residential, or design-build projects.
- Advanced proficiency in Revit and Bluebeam.
- Proven track record navigating Los Angeles jurisdictional permitting processes.
- Ability to work on-site daily in Gardena and travel occasionally to Los Angeles city offices.
Nice To Haves
- Experience inside a developer or design-build firm rather than a traditional architecture practice.
- Experience managing outside consultants and coordinating multidisciplinary drawing sets.
- Familiarity with Los Angeles’s ADU ordinance, SB 9, and density-bonus programs.
Responsibilities
- Direct conceptual layouts and construction documents for ADU and multifamily projects, ensuring they meet company quality and buildability standards.
- Define and execute permitting strategy for complex Los Angeles jurisdictions and manage submittals, corrections, and clearances through Ready-to-Issue (RTI).
- Oversee and review deliverables from structural, MEP, civil, and Title 24 consultants to maintain consistency and coordination across drawing sets.
- Serve as the in-house expert on the California Building Code (CBC), Title 24, and local zoning and ADU regulations.
- Coordinate with project managers and the construction team to ensure designs are constructible and field questions are answered promptly.
- Represent the company at city counters and plan-check meetings when in-person issue resolution is needed.
Benefits
- Free Welcome+ membership for up to 12 months while actively employed, covering the employee and family (spouse and children under 26).
- Membership includes no-cost telemedicine with unlimited 24/7 access, counseling support, prescription discounts, dental coverage through Aetna Dental Access®, and vision coverage.
- Opportunity to shape the design function as the project portfolio expands.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
