Architecture - Project Manager

Job DetailsJob Location: New York - New York City, NY 10001Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $85,000.00 - $135,000.00 SalaryJob Title: Project Manager
Department: Architecture
Reports to: Managing Director/Studio Director
FLSA Status: Exempt

GENERAL SUMMARY
The Project Manager is responsible for the comprehensive leadership, management, and execution of architectural projects from initial client engagement through project closeout. This role serves as the primary point of accountability for project performance, including design quality, technical execution, client satisfaction, financial performance, schedule adherence, and team coordination.

The Project Manager oversees all phases of the architectural process, including pre-design, schematic design, design development, construction documentation, permitting, bidding, and construction administration. This position ensures projects are delivered in alignment with client objectives, firm standards, contractual obligations, regulatory requirements, and profitability targets.

The Project Manager works closely with management, clients, consultants, and internal team members to ensure seamless coordination, proactive problem-solving, and successful project outcomes.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES
 The Project Manager oversees the work of architectural staff assigned to projects. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements below represent the required knowledge, skill, and/or ability. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Core duties and responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

Project Leadership and Management

Serve as the project manager responsible for overall project delivery, execution, and performance


Develop and maintain project work plans, schedules, milestones, and deliverables


Monitor project scope, budget, schedule, and staffing to ensure alignment with contractual and financial objectives


Identify potential project risks and implement mitigation strategies


Lead internal project kickoff meetings and establish project execution plans


Provide regular project status updates to firm leadership and stakeholders


Manage multiple projects concurrently, ensuring consistent quality and timely delivery

Client Relationship Management

Serve as the primary point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle


Establish and maintain strong, professional relationships with clients, developers, and stakeholders


Lead client meetings, presentations, and design reviews


Clearly communicate project progress, schedule, scope changes, and budget implications


Manage client expectations and proactively address concerns


Support business development efforts, including participation in proposals, interviews, and client presentations

Design Leadership and Oversight

Lead the development and execution of architectural design concepts aligned with project goals and client vision


Ensure design solutions meet functional, aesthetic, budgetary, and regulatory requirements


Provide design direction and technical guidance to project team members


Review drawings and models to ensure design intent is accurately executed


Collaborate with interior designers, planners, and technical specialists to ensure cohesive project design

Technical Oversight and Documentation

Oversee the preparation and coordination of architectural drawings and construction documents


Ensure construction documents are complete, coordinated, and compliant with applicable building codes, zoning ordinances, accessibility requirements, and regulatory standards


Review drawings and specifications for technical accuracy, constructability, and quality control


Ensure adherence to drafting and documentation standards


Facilitate internal and external quality assurance and quality control reviews

Consultant Coordination

Select, coordinate, and manage external consultants, including, structural engineers, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineers, civil engineers, landscape architects, code consultants, and specialty consultants


Ensure consultant work is fully integrated and coordinated with architectural design


Review consultant deliverables for consistency, completeness, and alignment with project objectives


Facilitate coordination meetings and resolve conflicts between disciplines

Financial Management and Project Profitability

Develop and manage project budgets and staffing plans


Monitor project financial performance, including labor utilization, expenses, and profitability


Review and approve project timesheets and labor allocations


Track project costs and identify variances from budget


Prepare and review client invoices in coordination with accounting


Monitor accounts receivable and assist with collections as necessary


Manage scope changes and prepare additional services proposals when required

Construction Administration

Oversee construction administration services, including, reviewing shop drawings, submittals, and samples; responding to Requests for Information (RFIs); preparing supplemental instructions and clarifications; conducting site visits and field observations; and monitoring construction progress for conformance with design intent


Assist in resolving construction related issues and coordinating with contractors and consultants


Support project closeout, including punch lists and final documentation

Regulatory and Permitting Coordination

Coordinate with local jurisdictions and regulatory agencies to secure approvals and permits


Ensure project compliance with building codes, zoning ordinances, life safety codes, and accessibility requirements


Address plan review comments and revise documents as necessary

Internal Coordination and Communication

Facilitate effective communication among project team members and firm leadership


Coordinate project schedules, staffing, and resource allocation


Maintain organized project files, documentation, and correspondence


Ensure compliance with firm policies, standards, and procedures

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Advanced knowledge of architectural design, detailing, and construction methods


Strong understanding of building systems, materials, and construction processes


Comprehensive knowledge of construction documents and specifications


Thorough understanding of applicable building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility requirements


Ability to review and coordinate complex technical drawings


Strong project planning, organizational, and time management skills


Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously


Strong financial management and budgeting skills


Ability to monitor and maintain project schedules and profitability


Ability to anticipate project challenges and implement effective solutions


Strong leadership and team management abilities


Ability to mentor and guide architectural staff


Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills


Ability to effectively interact with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams


Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills


Proficiency in the following software is required: Autodesk Revit (advanced proficiency required); AutoCAD; Bluebeam Revu; and Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)


Project management software (such as Deltek, Vantagepoint, or similar) preferred


Familiarity with the following is preferred: BIM coordination tools (Navisworks or similar) and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, InDesign)


Maintains a professional presence during virtual meetings. When participating in meetings through Microsoft Teams or other video conferencing platforms, employees are expected to be on camera unless otherwise approved or circumstances prevent camera use

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s or Master's degree in Architecture 


Professional licensure as a Registered Architect preferred (or ability to obtain licensure)


Minimum of 10–20 years of professional experience


Demonstrated experience managing architectural projects of varying size and complexity


Experience managing rollout, commercial, mixed-use, multi-family, or institutional projects preferred

Working at GFWHY YOU'LL WANT TO WORK AT GF
Join a team where you can contribute and grow your career without limits. At GF, you’ll help build community through meaningful work while shaping your professional growth and career path. Our team brings together diverse talents and backgrounds, creating an environment where you can explore fresh ideas, navigate new challenges, and adapt as your career and goals evolve. From our 4½-day workweek and comprehensive benefits to intentional mentorship and career development, GF provides an environment where growth, balance, and job satisfaction go hand in hand.

CAREER PROGRESSION
We are passionate about supporting your career progression and professional growth. GF maintains a career progression framework that illustrates typical advancement in both title and responsibility. During the annual performance review process, and at other appropriate times, we will discuss the skills, experience, and competencies that may be demonstrated to achieve the next level position.

Career progression is not prescriptive. Advancement is based on a combination of demonstrated capability, technical and interpersonal skills, experience, initiative, attitude, performance, and overall contribution to the firm. We encourage open, direct, and ongoing conversations with your manager regarding your career goals and professional development.