Senior Project Architect

HDR • Ottawa, ON

4d

About The Position

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world?

We believe architecture is more than designing buildings, it’s about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Architecture practice at HDR, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn’t just a job, it’s a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities.
The Senior Project Architect is a design-focused and collaborative professional who brings both technical expertise and project leadership to a multidisciplinary environment. As a key member of the project team, they provide architectural direction alongside project management oversight, guiding projects from concept through to completion with a strong emphasis on design excellence, quality, and project outcomes.
The Senior Project Architect is accountable for the successful delivery of projects, balancing design intent with program, budget, and technical requirements. They lead and coordinate project teams, ensuring that solutions are well integrated across disciplines while maintaining alignment with client objectives. They lead a diverse portfolio of projects, with a particular emphasis on healthcare, education, federal, and laboratory environments, bringing a thoughtful and integrated approach to complex challenges.
Working across multiple projects and locations, this role requires strong communication, coordination, and relationship-building skills. It requires the ability to manage both the creative and operational aspects of delivery, fostering collaboration across teams and stakeholders. The position offers opportunities for continued professional growth within an employee-owned culture, with pathways into design leadership, program management, and broader operational roles.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or closely related field
• A minimum of 10 years experience
• Registered Architect
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
• Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process
• Demonstrated graphic presentation skills
• Must have experience in preparation and layout of architectural contract documents and specifications
• Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills
• An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must

Nice To Haves

• Master's degree in Architecture
• Experience in the areas of healthcare, federal, educational, civic, science and research facilities
• Strong interpersonal skills and excellent written and verbal English communications skills
• Strong computer skills and experience using the Microsoft Office suite
• LEED AP or experience in sustainable design
• PMP certification would be an asset
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp and 3-D Studio Max
• Rhino and Grasshopper experience
• Demonstrated subject matter expertise in architectural design and construction
• Functional familiarity with Bluebeam, MS Project

Responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate work of single or multidiscipline teams throughout project lifecycles (from development & initiation to close-out)
• Establish and maintain client relations and be involved with marketing, contractual, design and production meetings.
• Develop, seek approval for and implement project work plans defining the scope, resources, schedule, and budget necessary to meet the needs of each project
• Engage resources and maintain the necessary project team composition throughout the project
• Direct and coordinate work of all professional staff and sub-consultants
• Review architectural documents for areas of conflict with all disciplines
• Communicate effectively, meaningfully and frequently with project stakeholders
• Interface closely with local municipalities and authorities having jurisdiction to ensure designs conform to with standards/codes and gain necessary approvals
• Prepare and conduct multi-stakeholder work sessions/presentations, charrettes, consultations, design reviews etc. as needed
• Oversee ,engage in preparation of, and develop reports, design drawings and architectural specifications
• Implement QA/QC procedures for all work produced
• Coordinate workload through entire project development and ensure completion of tasks on schedule
• Track financial aspects of projects, coordinate and adjust work efforts of the team to ensure that work is completed within parameters of approved budgets
• Work with Business/Accounting Manager or Project Controller and Department Manager for project reviews and with company management as needed
• Manage several work assignments/projects concurrently
• Travel to and attend various external site locations and offices to lead and participate in inspections, meetings, etc.
• Coordinate with and assist affected disciplines with addenda, RFIs, CPRs and change orders
• Provide construction contract administration as needed
• Supervise large project teams and act as mentor for less-experienced Architects and other team members
• Comply with all relevant legislation and corporate policies/procedures
• Perform other duties as needed

Benefits

• Employee-owned culture
• Opportunities for continued professional growth
• Pathways into design leadership, program management, and broader operational roles
• Eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior