Project Architect (5+ YOE)

It-makes Employer

Los Angeles, CA, USLocation:

Thu, Oct 22 '26Posted On

$80,000 - $110,000 annually Pay:

About The Studio

it-makes is a small, design-driven architecture practice producing thoughtful, well-crafted work. Our portfolio spans residential, restaurant, institutional, commercial, and retail projects across Los Angeles and a bit of OC. We are currently a team of 8, with 34 new projects in 2026 alone.

We strongly value people who know how to make the most of their workday. We believe in work/life balance, which means working efficiently, staying organized, and taking responsibility for keeping projects moving forward.

Our workplace is straightforward and business casual. Team members are expected to take ownership of their work, manage their time effectively, and approach challenges with a solutions-oriented mindset. Questions are always welcome, and an emphasis on design logic is appreciated.

Role Overview

We are seeking an Architectural Designer with 5+ years of professional experience who can take ownership of projects, manage deliverables independently, and move work forward with minimal oversight.

This role suits someone who understands the demands of architectural practice beyond producing drawings. You should be comfortable managing your own schedule, anticipating next steps, coordinating with consultants, identifying potential issues, and following through on responsibilities without needing frequent reminders or direction.

As a small practice with multiple concurrent projects, we need someone who can hit the ground running, prioritize effectively, and take the reins when given responsibility. You should know when to make decisions independently, when to raise a concern, and how to keep principals informed without requiring them to manage your day-to-day work.

Responsibilities

Manage assigned projects and deliverables from design through construction administration, as applicable.Independently manage schedules, priorities, and deadlines across multiple projects.Anticipate project needs, solve problems, and move work forward with minimal oversight.Develop architectural designs, drawings, details, and construction documents that balance design intent, technical requirements, and constructability.Coordinate with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal team members.Participate in design meetings, client presentations, and site visits.Maintain organized project documentation and ensure work is accurate and coordinated.Communicate project progress, outstanding decisions, and potential delays proactively.Contribute to studio standards and workflow improvements.

Qualifications

5+ years of professional experience in an architectural practice.B.Arch or M.Arch from an accredited institution.Experience across multiple project phases and the ability to manage project responsibilities independently.Strong understanding of building codes, construction methods, detailing, and consultant coordination.Proficiency in Revit and/or AutoCAD; additional design software experience is a plus.Architectural licensure or progress toward licensure is a plus, but not required.

Key Skills

Ownership: Self-directed, accountable, and proactive.Time Management: Independently manages workload and deadlines.Problem-Solving: Exercises sound judgment and works through challenges independently.Technical Competence: Strong design, documentation, detailing, or coordination skills.Communication: Clear, timely, and professional.Collaboration: Works effectively within a small team and adapts to changing priorities.

Compensation & Benefits

Salary commensurate with experience and qualificationsEmployer-supported health and dental coverage401(k) planFlexible PTO and unlimited sick day policyWork/life balance with a maximum 43-hour work weekSupport for professional licensure, including Amber Book accessParking, mileage, and phone reimbursementsGym and rooftop access

How to Apply

Please submit your resume, portfolio (5 MB maximum), and references. If applicable, please include your current licensure status and work authorization information.

Email applications to [email protected].

Selected work can be viewed at www.it-makes.com (website last updated 2024).

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits

401(k)Dental insuranceHealth insurancePaid time offParental leaveProfessional development assistance

Education

Bachelor's (Required)

Ability To Commute

Los Angeles, CA 90079 (Required)

Work Location: In person

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