Senior Project Designer

At HDR, our employee-owners are fully engaged in creating a welcoming environment where each of us is valued and respected, a place where everyone is empowered to bring their authentic selves and novel ideas to work every day. As we foster a culture of inclusion throughout our company and within our communities, we constantly ask ourselves: What is our impact on the world? Watch Our Story. Each role at HDR makes a difference in our ability to change the world for the better.

We believe architecture is more than designing buildings—it’s about providing solutions to societal challenges and creating stronger, more vibrant communities. As part of our Architecture practice, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being globally. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world. We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration.

Responsibilities

• Take lead responsibility for creative concepts and solutions for complex architectural projects in consultation with the Design Principal.
• Meet directly with owners/clients, analyze project goals, and develop architectural concepts and solutions.
• Initiate and create designs, including preparation of presentation drawings, models, and narratives.
• Provide senior design leadership for all disciplines related to overall building design.
• Represent the firm as a key member of the business development team in marketing to prospective clients.
• Collaborate with various disciplines throughout all project phases to ensure concepts accommodate project needs and the owner’s program.
• Develop design solutions that meet client goals and HDR’s internal project performance metrics.
• Direct the activities of other designers and mentor staff members as needed.
• Help build and maintain the design culture of the studio.
• Perform other duties as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or closely related field (or equivalent work experience).
• A minimum of 10 years of experience.
• Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule).
• Excellent written and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and processes.
• Demonstrated graphic presentation skills.
• Strong knowledge of codes and planning skills.
• Commitment to being an active participant in our employee-owned culture.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Architecture.
• Registered Architect.
• 10+ years of design leadership experience.
• Experience in healthcare, educational, civic, science, and research facilities.
• Experience and/or interest in sustainable design/LEED.
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, Rhino, Grasshopper, SketchUp, 3-D Studio Max, and other modeling/graphics programs.

Benefits

• Comprehensive benefits package promoting employee ownership, health, performance, and success.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• Short- and long-term disability, life insurance, and an employee assistance program.
• Paid time away, parental leave, and paid holidays.
• Retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Employee referral bonus and tuition reimbursement.
• Eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) fostering inclusion and support.

Pay

San Diego: $104,000–$149,000 (depends on skills, experience, education, and geographical location).

Schedule

Full-time, regular position.

Locations: Irvine, CA (primary) or San Diego, CA.