Project Architect

HGA•San Francisco, CA

13d•Hybrid

About The Position

HGA is seeking a Project Architect to join its Community + Live, Workplace, and Government practice in San Francisco, California. The role works closely with Senior Designers, Project Managers, and other Project Architects to develop innovative, technically sound design solutions and uphold high standards for design quality and client service. The Project Architect leads detailed project documentation and helps ensure design intent is carried through to delivery. The position includes leading technical design and documentation, coordinating BIM workflows and building systems, evaluating materials and assemblies, and supporting quality assurance. It also manages technical scope, schedules, and deliverables; coordinates consultants and multidisciplinary teams; reviews submittals, RFIs, and field reports; and supports construction administration through site observations and issue resolution. The role contributes to project strategy and risk management, mentors team members, facilitates design and coordination reviews, and supports professional development and firmwide technical initiatives. The position is based in San Francisco, CA. HGA describes its work environment as flexible, with employees working in the office three days a week. Regularly working more than 24 hours per week makes employees eligible to participate in the company's benefit programs. Applicants are asked to submit a cover letter, resume, and portfolio.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
Architectural licensure required.
8–10 years of experience, including work on small- to mid-size projects.
Deep understanding of programming, codes, and technical detailing.
Strong leadership and collaboration skills in team environments.
Proficiency in Revit required.
Expertise with project management software and Microsoft Office Suite products.
Excellent communication, presentation, and time management skills.

Nice To Haves

LEED accreditation preferred.
Experience with AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and other graphic tools desired.

Responsibilities

Lead the development and coordination of construction documents, project details, and specifications while ensuring design intent is accurately carried through.
Translate project goals into creative, functional, technically sound design solutions.
Oversee BIM and technical workflows to support accuracy, consistency, and constructability.
Coordinate architectural and engineering systems and collaborate with consultants and multidisciplinary teams to resolve technical issues.
Evaluate materials, assemblies, and systems for performance, code compliance, and cost-effectiveness, integrating them into cohesive, sustainable design solutions.
Champion quality assurance and continuous improvement in project delivery.
Manage technical scope, schedules, and deliverables for multiple projects or project phases.
Participate in client meetings and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
Review and respond to submittals, RFIs, and field reports using sound professional judgment.
Support construction administration through site observations and issue resolution.
Maintain organized project documentation aligned with firm standards.
Partner with Project Managers and Design Leaders on project strategy, risk management, and project delivery.
Mentor and coach team members in technical skills, documentation standards, and best practices.
Facilitate coordination and design review meetings, promoting alignment and accountability.
Foster an inclusive, learning-oriented culture focused on technical quality and innovation.
Expand expertise in codes, specifications, digital tools, and emerging construction technologies.
Contribute to firmwide initiatives that advance technical excellence and project delivery standards.
Advance proficiency in BIM workflows, QA/QC processes, and project management platforms.
Demonstrate initiative, strategic thinking, and commitment to continuous improvement.
Meet project milestones and deadlines with attention to detail and quality.