Senior Associate

About Handel Architects Handel Architects•San Francisco, CA

15h•Hybrid

About The Position

Our San Francisco studio is seeking a Senior Associate with 10–15+ years of experience to join our leadership team. We’re looking for a thoughtful, design-driven leader who excels at managing complex projects, guiding teams, and building strong client relationships. This role is ideal for someone who brings both big-picture thinking and technical depth—someone who can lead projects from early concept through construction while mentoring staff and contributing to the broader success of the firm. You will play a critical role as the primary link between firm leadership, project teams, and clients—ensuring that projects are delivered with clarity, creativity, and technical excellence. You’ll lead multiple projects simultaneously, oversee design direction, and ensure that design intent is carried through all phases. You’ll also contribute to the growth of the practice through client engagement, proposal development, and leadership within the office. This is a key leadership opportunity for someone who is passionate about design, invested in team development, and motivated to shape impactful, high-quality work.

Requirements

10–15+ years of professional architectural experience across all project phases
Licensed Architect required
Professional degree in Architecture
Strong experience leading large, complex projects (mixed-use and multifamily residential preferred)
Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously
Deep knowledge of California zoning, planning, building codes, and construction practices
Proven experience in client management, including leading presentations and navigating complex discussions
Experience negotiating contracts and managing project risk
Strong leadership and mentorship skills, with experience guiding and developing junior staff
Expertise in consultant coordination across disciplines (MEP, structural, landscape, etc.)
Advanced proficiency in Revit required; strong understanding of BIM coordination
Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and familiarity with 3D modeling tools (Rhino, SketchUp, etc.)
Experience producing and overseeing comprehensive construction document sets
Strong QA/QC experience, including reviewing and redlining drawing sets for technical accuracy and design intent
Experience with Construction Administration, including submittals, RFIs, and site visits

Nice To Haves

Familiarity with sustainability frameworks (LEED, GreenPoint Rated, or similar) preferred

Responsibilities

Lead multiple projects from feasibility through construction, ensuring design quality, schedule, and budget alignment
Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for clients, consultants, and internal teams
Guide design direction and ensure a cohesive vision across all project phases
Oversee project staffing, schedules, and deliverables in collaboration with firm leadership
Lead consultant coordination and resolve complex technical and design challenges
Review and oversee all project documentation for quality, coordination, and code compliance
Mentor and support the development of junior and mid-level staff, including formal reviews
Contribute to proposals, RFP responses, and business development efforts
Participate in office leadership initiatives, committees, and internal knowledge sharing
Support construction phase efforts to ensure design integrity through project completio