Project Architect

HGA•Santa Monica, CA

27d•Hybrid

About The Position

HGA, a leading architectural, engineering, and planning firm, is seeking a talented and driven Project Architect to join our growing Community + Live, Workplace, and Government practice in Santa Monica, CA. We’re looking for someone with strong communication, presentation, time management, and interpersonal skills who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about advancing great design. In this role, you’ll work closely with Senior Designers, Project Managers, and other Project Architects to develop innovative and technically sound design solutions. You’ll lead the creation of detailed documentation while maintaining our firm’s high standards for design quality and client service.

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 needed
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 of construction documents and ensure design intent is accurately carried through.
Translate complex project goals into creative and functional design solutions.
Collaborate across disciplines to coordinate architectural and engineering systems.
Participate in client meetings and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.
Ensure project milestones and deadlines are met with attention to detail and quality.
Lead the development and coordination of project documentation, details, and specifications.
Oversee BIM and technical workflows to ensure accuracy, consistency, and constructability.
Integrate building systems and materials into cohesive, sustainable design solutions.
Evaluate materials, assemblies, and systems for performance, code compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
Champion quality assurance and continuous improvement in project delivery.
Manage technical scope, schedule, and deliverables for multiple projects or project phases.
Lead coordination among consultants and multidisciplinary teams to resolve complex technical issues.
Review and respond to submittations, RFIs, and field reports with 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 delivery excellence.
Mentor and coach team members in technical skills, documentation standards, and best practices.
Facilitate coordination and design review meetings, ensuring 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 a commitment to continuous improvement.