Project Architect (Contract Employee with Potential for Full-Time Position)

Firm Overview
Studio Choi Architecture P.C. (SCA) is a multidisciplinary architecture firm specializing in design and executive architectural services across a diverse range of sectors including retail, hospitality, food and beverage, healthcare, and corporate interiors. Our practice is deeply rooted in our ability to help our clients carry out their concepts and vision with our advisory expertise and technical acumen. As a boutique firm, we pride ourselves in the personal touch that is the foundation of our firm's values and the service we provide our clients.
Position Overview
We are seeking a highly skilled Project Architect to support the design development and execution of retail tenant fit-out projects (US based projects). This role requires technical expertise, code knowledge, and the ability to manage projects from conceptual phases through construction documentation in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
The ideal candidate is detail-oriented, experienced in retail environments (street-front, mall, or free-standing stores), and comfortable working independently while coordinating with clients, consultants, and permitting authorities.
This is a contract position with potential to transition into a full-time position with Studio Choi Architecture.
Key Responsibilities (including but not limited to)
Lead project development from schematic design through construction documents with limited oversight
Experience with retail and national roll-out projects a plus.
Prepare and coordinate full construction drawing sets (plans, elevations, sections, details, schedules)
Ensure compliance with applicable building codes, ADA, and jurisdictional requirements
Coordinate with consultants such as MEP, structural, signage, and specialty consultants
Manage permit submissions and responses (including plan check comments and revisions)
Develop code analyses (occupancy, egress, fire ratings, accessibility, etc.)
Oversee internal and external consultant drawing coordination
Coordinate client, landlord, and mall criteria requirements, where applicable
Review and integrate branding and prototype standards
Qualifications
Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)
5+ years of experience, with strong emphasis on retail / commercial interiors
Proven experience with tenant fit-outs, storefront detailing, shop drawings, millwork detailing, and signage coordination
Strong knowledge of:
IBC and local code amendments
ADA / ICC A117.1
Egress codes, occupancy loads, and fire-rating requirements
Experience with multi-jurisdictional permitting processes
Technical Skills
Proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD (required)
Experience in rendering software is a plus (Enscape, etc.)
Experience with Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite
Familiarity with project management tools (Microsoft Project, etc.) is a plus
Ability to produce high-quality, construction drawing sets
Work Structure
Contract-based (hourly)
Remote working, with occasional site visits depending on project needs
Ideal Candidate Shall Have
Strong organizational and time management skills
Clear communicator with clients and consultants
Ability to work independently and proactively
Detail-oriented with a strong focus on constructability and documentation quality

Work arrangement
Yes