Project Architect / Architect IV - PreK-12

Position Summary

HED is seeking an experienced and passionate Project Architect IV to join our PreK–12 Education practice in the San Francisco Bay Area. The Technical Architect IV is 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
• Create 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
• Cookordinate 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
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, stakeholder workshops, and community engagement activities
• Conduct building systems, materials, and product research to support informed design decisions and contribute to firmwide technical resources
• 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
• Pasion for mentoring, inspiring, and motivating others
• Commitment to design quality, technical excellence, and continuous improvement