Project Architect

Project Lead

Full-Time

Irvine, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco

Salary: $90,000 - $110,000 Annually

Location: Irvine, Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco

Type: Full-Time

Department: Architecture

Role Overview

We are seeking a Project Lead to lead the preparation and coordination of complete, accurate, and construction-ready architectural document sets for multifamily residential and mixed-use projects. With 7-9 years of experience, the Project Lead operates with a high degree of independence, taking full ownership of documentation quality and consultant coordination on assigned projects without requiring day-to-day guidance. This role works closely with Project Managers and Principals, provides direct leadership to production team members, and serves as a key technical resource on project teams. The Project Lead is the bridge between production execution and project management and is on the direct path toward a Project Manager role for those who demonstrate the readiness to take on broader project and client responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Documentation & Technical

• Own the preparation, review, and quality control of complete construction document sets across all project phases, from design development through permit and construction
• Coordinate architectural drawings with structural, MEP, civil, landscape, and other consultant disciplines, proactively identifying and resolving conflicts before submission
• Apply advanced knowledge of California Building Code (CBC), Title 24, ADA, IBC, and BOMA standards to ensure documents are accurate and code-compliant
• Demonstrate expert-level knowledge of architectural detailing, building systems (lighting, HVAC, structural, plumbing, fire protection, electrical), and construction standards
• Write and review project specifications in coordination with Project Managers; flag legal or technical parameters requiring principal review

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Direct and coordinate production team members on assigned projects, assign tasks, allocate resources, and provide clear technical direction to Job Captains, Designer 1s, and Designer 2s
• Conduct drawing reviews and provide redline feedback to junior staff; ensure deliverables meet firm standards before escalating to Project Manager or Principal review
• Facilitate communication within the project team regarding schedule, drawing status, outstanding coordination items, and technical decisions
• Foster a productive environment for learning and professional growth; serve as a day-to-day technical mentor for production staff

Project Administration & Construction Support

• Manage and coordinate permit submittal packages; prepare responses to plan check corrections independently and track agency approvals through to issuance
• Lead construction administration activities including preparation and review of RFI responses, shop drawing submittals, and change order documentation in coordination with the Project Manager
• Lead or oversee field survey teams for as-built documentation and site verification
• Maintain, organize, and archive project files in accordance with firm standards throughout all project phases
• Occasionally support proposals, charrettes, or presentation preparation as requested by Project Managers or Principals

Qualifications

Required

• Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution
• 7-9 years of experience in a professional architecture office, with demonstrated ownership of complete construction document sets on multifamily residential or mixed-use projects
• Multi-family residential and mixed-use experience required
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD; working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Comprehensive working knowledge of CBC, ADA, Title 24, and relevant building codes
• Proven ability to lead production team members, manage drawing coordination across disciplines, and deliver construction-ready documents without requiring day-to-day guidance
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact professionally with consultants, contractors, and agency reviewers

Preferred

• Licensed Architect in California
• Experience managing permit submittals and responding to plan check corrections across California jurisdictions
• Familiarity with architectural specifications writing (CSI MasterFormat)
• Experience supporting construction administration on projects from permit through closeout
• Broad experience across project scales and phases

What This Role Offers

• Full technical ownership of construction document production and consultant coordination on significant multifamily residential and mixed-use projects across California and the Western U.S.
• A leadership role within the production team, with direct responsibility for guiding and developing junior staff
• A clear and defined path toward Project Manager for those who demonstrate readiness to take on broader project delivery, client relationship, and team oversight responsibilities

MVE + Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. MVE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of: race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by country, regional or local law.