What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Project Architect, People Leader position at Pfluger Architects?
Department: Project Architecture
Location: Austin, Texas
The Senior Project Architect is responsible for the architectural aspects of the development of the design through the production of construction documents and specifications. He/she will oversee the coordination of technical staff and outside consultants. This individual will be tasked with making sure that drawings meet the code requirements of the building site's jurisdiction. The Senior Project Architect supports the Project Managers throughout construction phase tasks, such as reviewing submittals, answering contractor's questions about the construction documents, and attending construction meetings with the owner and contractor. This person is regularly challenging the status quo and embracing the discovery mindset. As a key leader within the firm, the Senior Project Architect drives company-wide initiatives and serves as a mentor and people leader of the architectural staff.
Role & Responsibilities
- Embody Pfluger's core values. Consistently demonstrate the principles of Do What's Right, Build Synergy, Make a Difference, and Never Settle in all professional activities.
- Collaborate with the design team to develop a coherent design concept and narrative. Ensure that the project story, guiding principles, and design intent are maintained throughout the architectural process.
- Oversee and approve the design of architectural documents from schematic design through construction documents, maintaining alignment with quality and technical standards.
- Partner with Project Managers in developing a work plan and managing project schedules, resources, and budgets. Ensure that projects remain on track and in scope and continue to refine the work plan and staffing as needed.
- Responsible for coordinating internal technical staff as well as consultants, engineers, and contractors to ensure technical accuracy and alignment with project objectives.
- Actively cultivate and support strong client relationships, participating in client meetings and interviews. Maintain high client satisfaction throughout a project.
- Lead and manage the creation of addenda and other related bid phase documentation, offering expertise and oversight as needed.
- In partnership with Project Managers, help lead site visits, field reports, and construction administration tasks. Monitor construction progress to ensure alignment with design intent and quality standards.
- During the construction phase, oversee the architectural team's review of submittals and answer contractor's questions about construction documents. Lead owner-architect-contractor meetings.
- Ensure code compliance and coordinate with regulatory agencies for approvals. Act as a resource for code-related questions and approvals.
- Drive advanced research on building systems, materials, and technologies to support an innovative design process.
- Lead internal design reviews and pin ups from the schematic design stage onward. Provide constructive technical feedback during all project stages to improve design solutions.
- During post-occupancy evaluation, champion lessons-learned discussions and record insights. Collaborate with other Project Architects to ensure they are relayed to other staff members, captured within company standards, and incorporated into future projects.
- Partner with the Project Manager to lead the end-of-phase review and coordination of all documents and disciplines related to his/her responsibility of work.
- Participate in and lead one or more project teams, ensuring effective collaboration throughout the production of construction documents.
- Serve as a key leader within the organization, contributing to strategic initiatives and the advancement of the firm.
- Participate in Pfluger's recruitment processes. Interview potential new team members and lead hiring decisions.
- Directly supervise and manage architectural staff per Pfluger people leader expectations (see addendum).
- Mentor and support junior staff, providing guidance and fostering a culture of collaboration and professional development. Support architectural staff in pursuit of licensure and provide opportunities to earn AXP hours.
- Alignment with Pfluger's purpose of "inspiring people to create a more meaningful human experience," with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.
- Extensive knowledge of architecture principles and practices.
- Demonstrated proficiency in projects of the greatest size and complexity, ensuring excellence, technical accuracy, and timely delivery.
- Experience producing detailed construction documents and specifications.
- Experience in educational projects is required.
- Proficiency in Revit is essential. Experience with Bluebeam, Microsoft Office products, and ERP systems is highly preferred.
- Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to build positive relationships both internally and externally and effectively lead project teams and direct reports.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment with strong organization skills and attention to detail.
- Extensive knowledge of building codes, regulations, construction processes, and project documentation.
- Proven ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including consultants, engineers, and contractors, to align on project objectives and standards.
- Ability and prior experience overseeing and guiding project teams.
- Professional degree in Architecture is required.
- Licensed Architect in the state of Texas is required.
- Minimum of ten years of architectural experience.
The Senior Project Architect must be prepared to commute daily to Pfluger's Austin office and as required to Pfluger's other offices.