Architectural Project Lead

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.