Senior Project Manager - SME - Interior Design/Architecture

Huitt-Zollars•Los Angeles, CA

2h•$128,000 - $142,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Huitt-Zollars Houston Downtown office is seeking a highly skilled Senior Project manager – Subject Matter Expert – Interior Design/Architecture to lead dynamic interior design, interior architecture, and architecture projects. This position offers an opportunity to participate in the design and manage projects across all phases, from business development and proposal writing, through concept to design development and finally construction administration and project closeout. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in themed entertainment, commercial, and hospitality, a refined design voice, exceptional communication and leadership skills, and a proven ability to deliver high-quality results while fostering strong client relationships.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Interior Design, Interior Architecture, Architecture from a NAAB-accredited program.
Registered Interior Designer or Architect in Texas or eligible for reciprocity.
Minimum of 10–15 years in interior design, interior architecture, architectural design, construction, and project management, with a focus on client relationships.
Advanced proficiency in Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and other 3D modeling tools (e.g., Enscape, SketchUp)
Deep understanding of interior design, building design, construction methods, codes, and sustainability principles.
Solid experience in business development, including fee proposals, contract negotiations, and client presentations.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present ideas effectively to clients and teams.
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work for Huitt-Zollars in the U.S. without employer sponsorship.
Huitt-Zollars does not sponsor H1-B or any other work visa petitions.

Nice To Haves

Extensive experience in themed entertainment, commercial, and hospitality.
Refined design voice.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary liaison for clients, ensuring clear communication and alignment throughout the project lifecycle.
Lead all aspects of projects, including design, planning, directing, monitoring, and resolving challenges for projects with varying degrees of complexity.
Supervise and mentor project teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment that supports individual and team success.
Manage team workloads and collaborate with other project directors to balance assignments across the office.
Ensure projects are completed on schedule, within budget, and meet contractual terms, design guidelines, and client objectives.
Lead the collaboration process amongst the project team to develop innovative concept designs, programming, and space planning tailored to project needs.
Review work for compliance with design intent, code requirements, and budgetary constraints.
Prepare and review architectural documents, including specifications, meeting minutes, agency applications, and project reports.
Conduct site visits and assessments to monitor progress, address technical issues, and ensure alignment with project goals.
Provide leadership and technical guidance to junior staff, promoting professional development and ensuring high-quality deliverables.
Write proposals, recommend appropriate fees, and participate in contract negotiations with clients and consultants.
Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with existing and prospective clients, contributing to repeat business and new opportunities.
Assist in preparing proposals, pursuing new clients, and participating in project presentations as needed.
Prepares and follows comprehensive Project Framework Instructions and proper work planning for a project.
Ensures proper staff is assigned and utilized on their projects.
Reviews project reports and performance metrics to track project progress and budget.
Leads successful projects (profit, on-schedule, quality, satisfied client).
Contributes to successful delivery and performance of projects.
Cultivates relationships with clients and holds strong relationships with clients.
Understands, follows, and enforces Huitt-Zollars' business process including weekly rhythm.
Takes active steps in the pursuit of winning new business or additional opportunities with existing clients and may be responsible for a stated portion of office sales goal.
Assists and/or leads team in pursuit of new work (repeat work, SOQ and Proposals).
Develops and/or executes project Win strategy.
Understands and follows HZ QMS and Quality initiatives.
Ensures quality control measures are being adhered to on projects and daily operations.
Actively engages and participates in the training, coaching, and mentoring of junior staff.
Understands duties and responsibilities, possesses necessary job knowledge and technical skills, maintains job knowledge current.