Project Architect

Company Description Waterleaf Architecture has been an integral part of the Northwest design community since 1952, delivering projects in several sectors including commercial, community, higher education, wineries, and transit. We take pride in fostering strong relationships with public and private clients and creating cost-effective design solutions that meet diverse stakeholder needs. As a certified B Corporation, we are committed to positively impacting the communities where we live and work. We lead with empathy, set egos aside, and enjoy a genuinely collaborative and creative process. Our work spans a wide range of project types and scales, yet every project reflects thoughtful design that positively impacts the community. Each member of the Waterleaf team brings heart, passion, and a unique perspective contributing to the diversity, growth, and success of every project and of our studio.

WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR:

We are seeking a self‑motivated, solutions‑oriented Project Architect with strong design, planning, documentation, and technical detailing skills. This role requires the ability to work independently, direct supporting staff, communicate effectively, and lead a diverse team of consultants.

You will be actively involved from concept through construction administration, facilitating communication across the project team and overseeing—and contributing to—the development of project documentation.

Ideal candidates will have solid experience with building codes across a range of project types, building systems, and scales, and will be able to manage documentation while contributing to design excellence throughout the project.

WHAT WE ASK OF YOU

Design + Planning

Apply creative design thinking to maximize project value.Develop space plans.Contribute to design and technical documentation.Resolve design and technical issues to maintain progress and quality.Assist in developing project design schedules.Technical Documentation + QA/QC

Produce drawings in Revit; working knowledge of AutoCAD.Generate and/or oversee presentation renderings, graphics, and reports (Enscape, Twinmotion).Produce construction details that meet QA/QC and best‑practice standards.Assist with project specification standards across project types.Stay current with evolving design software (Revit, Autodesk Collaborate Pro, Bluebeam, Enscape, Adobe Creative Suite, AI tools).Code, Permitting + Process Management

Conduct code reviews and prepare code summaries.Manage bidding and permitting processes.Oversee project close‑out.Field Work + Existing Conditions

Oversee and participate in building surveys, studies, field measurements, and as‑builts.Provide input on contractor progress during construction and offer recommendations.Team + Client Coordination

Facilitate clear communication with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal teams, including meeting minutes.Research materials and products; meet with vendors.Represent Waterleaf professionally and with integrity.Be willing to ask questions and engage collaboratively.Other tasks as assigned.YOUR KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

Credentials + Experience

10–15 years of relevant experience.Professional degree in Architecture required.Professional license required (Oregon or other state); NCARB preferred.LEED and/or WELL accreditation is a plus.Software + Technical Skills

Fluent in Revit/Enscape, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office.Working knowledge of AutoCAD; familiarity with AI tools a plus.Ability to develop/manage Revit families and architectural graphic standards.Building Codes + Process Knowledge

Strong knowledge of building codes, accessibility requirements, and the permitting process.Professional Qualities

Produces complete, accurate work with strong attention to detail.Responsible, dependable, and accountable for results.Strong interpersonal and communication skills; works well with others.Highly productive, able to work independently, and adaptable to shifting priorities.Takes initiative, offers solutions, and embraces new methods.Responds well to new situations and supports process improvement.Maintains professionalism, positivity, pride in work, and confidentiality.Logistics

Ability to travel to client meetings, construction sites, vendor offices, and related locations.

WHAT WE OFFER YOU:

At Waterleaf, we are committed to true work–life balance. We want you to enjoy your work, your team, and the path you choose for your own growth. We offer a competitive salary and a hybrid work model that includes remote flexibility.

Our benefits include medical, dental, vision; a pre‑tax flexible spending account; paid parking or transit pass; paid holidays and PTO. We also offer a 401(k) with profit sharing opportunities.

We value and welcome diversity at all levels, in a highly inclusive environment, that serves our employees, consultants and clients. Employment decisions are based on merit, competence, and performance. We do not discriminate. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Waterleaf Architecture, LLC is a full-service architecture and planning firm that thrives on great design and great relationships. Visit www.waterleaf.com or message us at [email protected] to learn more and express interest in becoming a member of our team. Interested applicants should provide a resume, references, and work portfolio.