Project Architect / Architect IV - PreK-12

Position Summary

HED is seeking an experienced and passionate Architect IV to join our growing PreK–12 Education practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Technical Architect IV is a senior-level architectural professional responsible for leading medium- to large-scale projects from planning and design through construction and closeout.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, coordination, and technical execution of medium- to large-scale PreK–12 educational projects.
• Develop and oversee coordinated construction documents that align with project goals, design intent, DSA requirements, and applicable codes.
• Create and manage the Discipline Work Plan (DWP) in collaboration with the Project Manager.
• Cook up and manage the Discipline Work Plan (DWP) in collaboration with the Project Manager.
• Coordinate work across design and engineering disciplines, consultants, and production teams to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Foster collaborative relationships with school districts, educational stakeholders, consultants, and regulatory agencies.
• Lead interactions with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), including DSA and local permitting agencies, throughout review and approval processes.
• Guide project teams through the DSA approval process, including document preparation, agency coordination, review responses, and project closeout requirements.
• Ensure project documentation complies with DSA requirements, California Building Code, California Accessibility Code, and applicable educational facility standards.
• Conduct building systems, materials, and product research to support informed design decisions and contribute to firmwide technical resources.
• Lead construction administration activities, including RFIs, submittals, field observations, field reports, and contractor coordination.
• Serve as Architect of Record as assigned and sign and seal documents prepared under your direct supervision.
• Mentor emerging professionals and contribute to technical excellence, quality assurance, and knowledge sharing across the firm.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in Architecture or equivalent professional degree required.
• Active California Architectural License required.
• NCARB certification preferred.
• LEED Accreditation preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional architectural experience with a strong focus on technical project delivery.
• Demonstrated experience delivering California PreK–12 educational facilities projects.
• Strong working knowledge of DSA procedures, California Building Code, California Accessibility Code, and educational facility design standards.
• Experience collaborating directly with school districts, educational administrators, and public-sector stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Revit required; experience with Revizto preferred.
• Familiarity with UpCodes, RIB SpecLink, and current building code research tools preferred.
• Strong communication, collaboration, and leadership skills.
• Passion for mentoring, inspiring, and motivating others.
• Commitment to design quality, technical excellence, and continuous improvement.