July 29, 2026

Senior Licensed Architect

TRS Staffing Del Mar, California

Senior Licensed Architect – Studio Leader

We are currently seeking a high caliber CA-Licensed Architect for a long-term basis within our client’s team of experienced professionals. Based in San Diego, CA.

Our client is seeking an accomplished, licensed architect to join its San Diego office as a Senior Architect and future Studio Leader. This leadership-track position is designed for a seasoned professional who possesses strong technical expertise, proven project leadership skills, and a passion for building client relationships and growing a practice within the San Diego market.

The successful candidate will work closely with the current San Diego Studio Leader to ensure a seamless leadership transition over time. This individual will play a key role in managing staff, leading project delivery, supporting business development initiatives, and strengthening our clients presence throughout San Diego County and Southern California.

This position offers a unique opportunity for an experienced architect to shape the future of an established and respected architectural practice while contributing to the firm's continued growth across multiple market sectors.

Job Requirements

Leadership & Studio Management

Partner with the current Studio Leader to support the strategic growth and operational success of the San Diego office.
Mentor, coach, and develop architectural staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.
Assist with staff resource planning, project staffing, performance management, and employee development.
Promote and reinforce SVA Architects' culture, values, and commitment to design excellence.
Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to firmwide strategic initiatives.

Project Leadership

Lead complex architectural projects from programming and design through construction administration.
Provide technical oversight and quality control for project teams.

Manage project schedules, budgets, staffing plans, and client expectations.

Guide multidisciplinary teams to successful project outcomes.
Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and client requirements.

Business Development & Client Relations

Maintain and expand relationships within the San Diego design, development, education, and public-sector communities.
Actively participate in project pursuits, proposal development, presentations, and client interviews.
Collaborate with firm leadership on strategic business development initiatives.
Identify opportunities for new projects and market expansion.
Represent SVA Architects at industry organizations, community events, and professional associations.

Technical Leadership

Provide technical direction and guidance to project teams.
Utilize Revit to review, navigate, and direct project teams regarding design and documentation changes.
Support BI standards and best practices throughout project execution.
Maintain a strong understanding of current building technologies, codes, and construction methods.

Qualifications:

Licensed Architect in California.
Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture from an accredited program.
Minimum 12-15 years of progressive architectural experience.
Demonstrated experience managing architectural teams and project staff.
Strong project management experience with responsibility for project delivery, budgets, schedules, and client relationships.
Significant experience with:

Multifamily Housing
Affordable Housing
Senior Housing
Mixed-Use Residential Developments

Demonstrated experience delivering DSA projects.
K-12 educational facility experience required.
Experience participating in project pursuits, proposal development, and interview presentations.
Strong working knowledge of Revit with the ability to navigate project models and

direct design and documentation modifications.
Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

Existing professional relationships within the San Diego architecture, development, education, and public-sector communities
Experience leading office operations or managing a studio, department, or business unit.
Familiarity with Southern California market trends, entitlement processes, and development opportunities.
Active participation in industry organizations such as AIA, ULI, BIA, CASBO, CASH, or similar professional groups.
Experience contributing to strategic planning and business development initiatives

***Notice to Candidates: Background checks are carried out as part of any conditional offer made, including (but not limited to & role dependent) education, professional registration, employment, references, passport verifications and Global Watchlist screening.

To be Considered Candidates: Must be authorized to work in the USA without sponsorship***

Employment Type: Direct/Permanent

Location of Position: San Diego, CA

Location Type: Office, Project Site (on occasion)

TRS Staffing Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. Employment decisions are based on job related criteria and not on the basis of any unlawful criteria. We ensure equal access to employment opportunities, services, and programs.

Must have legal right to work in the United States. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

TRS Staffing Solutions are an equal opportunities employer, and we welcome you to provide OFCCP data voluntarily here

Create a free account to keep reading — and to apply.

Create My Free Account

TheCreativeLoft is a better way to find jobs. Find out more:

You're just 60 seconds away from your new Creativeloft account.

Looking For Similar Jobs?