Project Architect

RQ Construction • Carlsbad, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a licensed Project Architect to join our Architecture team in Carlsbad, California, working within a fully integrated design-build setting that primarily supports military construction projects. This role involves overseeing multiple projects simultaneously while coordinating across several disciplines, including fire protection and life safety, civil engineering, structural systems, landscape architecture, interiors, MEP (mechanical, electrical, plumbing), and telecommunications/security systems. The Project Architect will collaborate closely with architects, engineers, and clients, serving as a key point of contact throughout the project lifecycle. This individual will provide technical leadership in areas such as design development, construction documentation, building codes, and overall project coordination, ideally with prior experience supporting Department of Defense projects. Since 1996, RQC, LLC has played a key role in Southern California's commercial and government design-build market. Over time, the company has expanded its reach across the United States and internationally, managing projects from coast to coast. At RQ, we're not just building structures; we're building careers and creating meaningful, high-impact projects. We are headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, with regional offices and project locations nationwide. RQ is a privately held, full-service design-build firm, specializing in fast-track commercial construction for the Department of Defense, and offering comprehensive solutions that integrate design, engineering, and construction under one roof.

Requirements

• Licensed Architect (required)
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture
• 15+ years of experience in construction documentation for projects ranging from $30M-$150M
• Strong working knowledge of building systems, including civil, structural, MEP, and low-voltage systems
• Advanced understanding of construction detailing and technical design execution
• Proficiency in using Revit and other design tools
• Demonstrated expertise from schematic design through construction documentation
• Familiarity with building codes, construction practices, and methodologies
• Knowledge of Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) standards
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational abilities
• Willingness to travel approximately 20-30%
• Software Skills: Autodesk Revit, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Bluebeam Revu, SpecsIntact, and Microsoft Office

Nice To Haves

• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards certification preferred
• Experience with Department of Defense projects preferred

Responsibilities

• Support leadership of a multi-disciplinary design team
• Perform schematic layouts and preliminary design
• Construction documentation/detailing on architectural projects
• Participate in client meetings, internal coordination sessions, and agency design reviews
• Manage team workload across project phases to ensure timely delivery
• Review architectural documents for areas of conflict with all disciplines
• Write and edit architectural specifications utilizing SpecsIntact software
• Assist with RFIs, addenda, and change order documentation
• Contribute to project scheduling and milestone tracking
• Perform QA/QC and technical reviews
• Perform Independent Technical Reviews (ITR) on projects within the department
• Help manage projects from concept through construction
• Be the point person for coordination of multi-million-dollar projects
• Assist in construction administration

Benefits

• Salary Range: $100,000-$130,000 annually (based on experience, education, and qualifications)
• Hybrid schedule (in-office Monday-Wednesday; optional remote Thursday-Friday)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with competitive employer match
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days
• Professional development support, including continuing education and licensure renewal reimbursement

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees