Department Manager - Senior Architect

Position Overview

C&S Companies is seeking an experienced and driven Senior Architect to serve as Department Manager within our Architecture and Interior Design practice. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the department, guiding project teams through all phases of design and delivery, and serving as a trusted resource for clients and staff alike. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, a collaborative leadership style, and a commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions.

Key Responsibilities

Department Leadership

Lead, mentor, and develop a team of architects, designers, and support staffOversee department workload, staffing assignments, and resource planning to meet project schedules and budgetsFoster a culture of quality, accountability, and continuous improvementCollaborate with other department managers and firm leadership on strategic initiatives and business developmentProject Management and Delivery

Serve as Principal-in-Charge or Project Manager on select commissions, providing technical oversight from programming through construction administrationReview and approve project deliverables at key milestones to confirm compliance with scope, schedule, and budgetCoordinate with engineering disciplines, subconsultants, and contractors to maintain project momentum and resolve technical issuesTechnical Practice

Research and evaluate client requirements, building codes, zoning regulations, and site data to inform design decisions and project feasibilityApply knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal codes to all project types within the department’s portfolioLead design reviews and quality control processes to confirm documents are complete, coordinated, and constructibleStay current with evolving codes, materials, technologies, and industry best practicesClient and Stakeholder Engagement

Build and maintain strong client relationships, serving as a primary point of contact for key accountsLead client meetings, presentations, and project kick-off sessionsIdentify and pursue new business opportunities in coordination with the firm’s marketing and business development teamsQualifications

Required

Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) from an accredited institutionLicensed Architect in good standing; licensure in multiple states a plusMinimum 12 years of progressive experience in architectural practice, with at least 3 years in a leadership or management roleDemonstrated experience researching and applying building codes, zoning regulations, and site analysis to a broad range of project typesProficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and project management toolsStrong written and verbal communication skillsPreferred

LEED accreditation or other sustainability credentialsPrior project experience in healthcare, higher education, government, aviation, and/or industrial sectors preferredExperience managing term contracts or on-call agreements with public clientsFamiliarity with state agency submission processes (e.g., SED, DOH, OGS)Why C&S Companies

C&S Companies is a full-service architecture, engineering, and construction management firm with offices across the country. We offer a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment where senior professionals have the opportunity to lead meaningful projects, grow their teams, and make a lasting impact on the communities we serve. We are committed to professional development, work-life balance, and building a diverse and inclusive workplace.

C&S Companies is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. Employment decisions are based on personal capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, disability, religious belief, national origin, marital or domestic partner status, veteran status, sexual orientation, age, gender (including gender identity and expression), or other protected categories.