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 and every role throughout our organization 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 at HDR, you’ll contribute to the design and delivery of spaces and experiences that advance community well-being around the world. From healing environments and learning spaces to research labs and civic landmarks and infrastructure, your work will directly influence how individuals experience the world around them.

We bring together architects, planners, designers, and technical experts to solve complex design challenges with creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. From championing design excellence with an emphasis on resilience and sustainability to pioneering innovative building technologies, your contributions will leave a lasting impact on the built environment. This isn’t just a job—it’s a chance to drive meaningful change and help define the future of our communities.

Responsibilities

• Take lead responsibility for creative concepts/solutions for complex architectural projects in consultation with the Design Principal.
• Meet directly with the owner/client, analyze project goals, conceive and develop architectural concepts/solutions for those goals.
• Initiate and create designs and other documentation with responsibility for preparation of presentation drawings, models, and narratives.
• Provide senior design leadership for all disciplines related to overall building design.
• Represent our firm by participating as a key member of our business development team in marketing to prospective owners/clients.
• Work with various disciplines throughout all phases to ensure all concepts/solutions accommodate project needs and the owner's program.
• Develop design solutions that meet both the client's project goals and HDR's internal project performance metrics and goals.
• Direct the activities of other designers and mentor other 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.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process.
• Demonstrated graphic presentation skills.
• Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills.
• Attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture.
• Registered Architect.
• A minimum of 10 years of design leadership experience.
• Experience in the areas of healthcare, educational, civic, science, and research facilities.
• Experience and/or interest in sustainable design/LEED strongly desired.
• Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, Rhino, Grasshopper, SketchUp, 3-D Studio Max, and other appropriate modeling and 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) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.

Pay

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

Schedule

Full-time, regular position.

Primary Location: United States-California-Irvine
Other Locations: United States-California-San Diego