Senior Architect

Description
We are currently seeking a highly motivated and team-oriented Senior Architect to join our Civic & Justice Practice. As a Senior Architect, you will develop solutions to technical problems and lead multiple projects through the design process, production of construction documents, and construction administration as part of a project team. You must demonstrate leadership qualities and a collaborative approach to the successful production of design and construction documents. Candidates should demonstrate experience in all aspects of the design process including: Programming, Master Planning, Conceptual, Schematic and Design Development presentations, 3D modeling, and the technical proficiency to successfully implement designs through the CD/CA phases. Responsibilities include participating in design phase activities and coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors throughout the project. Experience with Civic & Justice projects is required. The ideal candidate has experience working on projects such as: Correctional facilities, Detention Centers, Courthouses, etc. Other preferred experience includes: municipalities, police and fire stations, city and county buildings, and other public works/public safety buildings. An active California architect license is required.
Attributes to support the NELSON Culture:
Go All In. Own the Outcome. We go all in—with urgency, follow-through, and pride in the result.
Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic. We keep it real—with clarity, candor, and care.
Grow with Purpose. We embrace growth—through learning, coaching, and continuous improvement.
Think Bold. Execute Smart. We think boldly—and pair ambition with discipline.
Make Space for Everyone. We value you—and build a culture where people can thrive and do their best work.
Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Critical features of this job are described under the headings below. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.
Required Knowledge & Skills:
Extensive understanding of design, trends, construction methodology, materials application and manufacturer­ supplier appropriateness
Good understanding of project budgets and schedules
Extensive knowledge of building regulations, life safety codes and ADA requirements
Extensive knowledge of the construction process
Extensive knowledge of design techniques, tools, and processes involved in production of Construction Documents
Extensive knowledge of product specifications and detailing
Good knowledge of MS Project
Good knowledge of Newforma Project Center
Good knowledge of Deltek Vantagepoint
Good knowledge of LEED and WELL requirements
Essential Duties & Responsibilities include the following, other duties my be assigned:
Leadership:
Assist project team with design and technical questions during the project
Share knowledge with the entire studio and be a resource to the entire NELSON staff
Be a mentor to staff, including interns
Contribute as a Team Leader, on an as needed basis as it relates to individual performance & development within the project team
Embrace specific steps to create, develop and promote a diverse workforce and to promote an inclusive environment
Project Delivery:
Assist with proposal and contract documents
Contribute to the work plan for each project
Prepare and oversee the preparation of Concept, Schematic Design, Design Development and Construction Documents
Conduct field survey as required
Generate overall project design concepts
Develop and/or oversee the development of design concepts into complete design development set and further advance into complete construction drawings
Oversee material research and compilation of project data and incorporation throughout the project
Prepare project specifications
Communicate with project team members and resolve drawing discrepancies independently
Coordinate and incorporate work of internal and external project consultants
Oversee the preparation of Addenda and Bullentin documentation
Review Shop Drawings
Sign and seal drawings as needed
Review, respond to and track RFI's
Attend construction meetings, make periodic site observation visits as required by contract
Prepare and update punch lists as required
Adhere to NELSON standards in the preparation of deliverables
Review and correct your own work and works of the project team including both internal & external consultants following established QA procedures
Review and understand applicable building codes and other standards (including Accessibility Standards)
Prepare zoning and building code analysis and review
Assist with the timely submittal of drawings to the appropriate authorities having jurisdiction
Oversee the maintenance and archiving of electronic project files
Understand project scope and identify items that are beyond the original scope of services and bring attention to Project Lead
Draft Client Agreement change orders and Sub Consultant agreement change ordered as directed by Project Leader
Prepare meeting agendas, meeting minutes, phone conversation notes, etc. to document the process of the project and directions received from the Client.
Attend project meetings
Share knowledge with other teammates and assist team with design and/or detailing challenges
Lead more complex projects
Client Relationships:
Maintain secondary client contact as back up to primary contact
Business Development:
Assist in secondary marketing by maintaining good working relationships with Client contacts
Attend interviews as requested by Team Leaders, Studio or Managing Directors
Continuing Education & Professional Development:
Maintain licensure by fulfilling continuing education
Continuously enhance skills in required software by attending in-house training and working on billable
Billable percentage expected to be 90%-95% or greater on an on-going basis
Enhance management and communication
Qualifications:
An active California architect license is required
Minimum 12 years of industry experience
Bachelor's degree in Architecture from an accredited university
Expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, SpecLink, Newforma, SketchUp, Photoshop and InDesign
Advanced knowledge of building life safety and ADA codes
Strong leadership, organization, communication and relationship management skills
Experience with Civic & Justice projects is required. The ideal candidate has experience working on projects such as: Correctional facilities, Detention Centers, Courthouses, etc. Other preferred experience includes: municipalities, police and fire stations, city and county buildings, and other public works/public safety buildings.
Billable Expectations:
Billable percentage expected to be 90%-95% or greater on an on-going basis
National average salary range: $100,000 – $145,000 (12+ years experience). Factors such as years of relevant experience, qualifications/licensure, education, and location are taken into consideration during the hiring process. Additional compensation includes bonuses and benefits. Bonuses can include but are not limited to: Long Term Incentive Plan, Short Term Incentive Plan, Profit Sharing
Benefits of NELSON: (additional benefit details can be found at: nelsonworldwide.com/careers)
401(K) plan with company match
Full health benefits including medical, dental, and vision
Wellness program with rewards for healthy activities
Pet Insurance
Opportunities for career advancement
Paid time off and holiday pay
Paid parental leave
Flexible working schedules and work from home options based on client’s needs
Professional Development including discretionary support and reimbursement for registrations, certifications, and membership to a professional organization
NELSON and its related affiliates are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will recei

Work arrangement
Yes