Senior Project Manager-Architecture

Dewberry is a mission-driven architecture firm committed to delivering community-centered civic environments by activating deep subject matter expertise, design excellence, and technical rigor. Our portfolio includes municipal facilities, justice and public safety centers, libraries, cultural institutions, and higher-education projects.

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Project Manager to provide strategic leadership for complex civic and public-sector projects across California. This role is responsible for overseeing multiple projects and teams, guiding design and technical excellence, and serving as a trusted advisor to public agency clients. The Senior Project Manager plays a key role in shaping project outcomes, mentoring staff, and supporting the growth of the firm’s civic practice. Relocation assistance is available for the right candidate.

Responsibilities

• Project & Practice Leadership
  • Provide overall leadership for large-scale and complex civic projects from programming through construction administration.
  • Oversee multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring alignment with firm standards for quality, schedule, and profitability.
  • Establish and manage project execution plans, staffing strategies, budgets, schedules, and risk mitigation approaches.
  • Lead QA/QC processes and ensure consistency across project documentation and delivery.
• Client, Agency & Stakeholder Leadership
  • Serve as primary point of contact for public-sector clients including cities, counties, state agencies, and institutional partners.
  • Build and maintain long-term client relationships founded on trust, transparency, and design excellence.
  • Lead public meetings, agency presentations, and stakeholder engagement processes.
  • Navigate entitlement, regulatory, and approval processes including DSA, OSFM, and other California authorities as applicable.
• Design & Technical Excellence
  • Champion design quality that reflects civic identity, functionality, sustainability, and long-term stewardship.
  • Provide high-level oversight of technical solutions, code compliance, constructability, and systems coordination.
  • Guide consultant teams and ensure integrated delivery across disciplines.
  • Support innovation in delivery methods, digital tools, and sustainable design strategies.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship
  • Lead, mentor, and develop project managers and project architects.
  • Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and accountable team culture aligned with firm values.
  • Support performance reviews, career development planning, and staffing decisions.
  • Serve as a role model for professional practice, leadership, and client service.
• Business Development & Strategic Growth
  • Contribute to the strategic growth of the civic practice in California.
  • Participate in pursuit strategy, proposals, interviews, and client relationship development.
  • Support fee negotiations, contract development, and resource planning.
  • Leverage market knowledge and client insight to identify new opportunities and partnerships.

Requirements

• Licensed Architect in California (required).
• 15+ years of professional experience with at least 5 years in a project management leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex civic and public-sector projects.
• Deep knowledge of California Building Code, ADA, and public agency approval processes (DSA experience strongly preferred).
• Proven ability to manage teams, budgets, schedules, and consultant coordination at a senior level.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and client-management skills.
• Valid driver’s license, good driving record, and ability to pass a driving record background check.

Pay

The projected range for this position is $120,000–$190,000 annually, depending on skills, experience, location, and market conditions.