Sr Project Architect - Science + Technology

Overview

HGA is seeking a highly accomplished Senior Project Architect to join our Science + Technology (S+T) practice in San Francisco. This is a unique opportunity to help shape innovative environments that advance discovery, research, healthcare, and technological innovation for higher education, corporate, government, and healthcare clients.

About the role

As a Senior Project Architect, you will lead the technical vision, execution, and delivery of complex projects, transforming ambitious design concepts into integrated, high-performing, and buildable solutions. Partnering closely with Project Managers, Senior Designers, Principals, and market sector leadership, you will guide project teams through technical strategy, quality assurance, project coordination, and risk management while ensuring exceptional outcomes for our clients.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical execution of large, complex, or multi-phase projects.
• Oversee development of construction documents, details, and specifications.
• Resolve design and construction challenges with strategic, buildable solutions.
• Ensure compliance with codes, regulations, and firm standards.
• Guide integration of building systems, materials, and sustainability strategies.
• Manage technical scope, schedule, and deliverables across disciplines.
• Lead consultant coordination and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Review and respond to RFIs, submittals, and field reports with authority.
• Support construction administration with site visits, punch lists, and issue resolution.
• Champion quality control and documentation standards across projects.
• Mentor Project Architects and junior staff in technical development.
• Lead internal reviews and design coordination meetings.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Principals to align design and delivery strategies.
• Contribute to firmwide initiatives in technical excellence and professional development.
• Influence firm standards, QA/QC protocols, and BIM workflows.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, codes, and construction methods.
• Represent the firm in client, consultant, and contractor interactions.
• Contribute to proposals, interviews, and strategic project pursuits.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture or a related discipline.
• Expert-level proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, BIM workflows, and project coordination tools (e.g., VantagePoint, Newforma).
• Deep understanding of building systems, codes, specifications, and construction processes.
• Proven experience leading technical execution for complex, multi-phase projects.
• Strong leadership, communication, and mentoring capabilities across diverse teams.
• Licensed architect.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of professional experience in architecture, design, and technical project delivery.
• Experience working on hi-tech labs is a plus.
• Strong design skills are important.
• Proficiency in Revit is required; experience with AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and other graphic tools is desired.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, able to communicate clearly with team members and clients.
• Demonstrated ability to oversee and be responsible for project delivery which may be multiple, large or complex in scope.
• Ability to lead remote teams.

Skills

• Strong technical skills in Revit, AutoCAD, and BIM workflows.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Knowledge of building systems, codes, and construction processes.

Benefits

• Annual bonus and success sharing bonus program.
• 401(k) guaranteed contribution.
• Paid parental leave.
• Medical, dental, and life insurance plans.
• PTO and short- and long-term disability programs.

Pay

The pay range listed aligns to the geography of the office for which this position is posted. Actual compensation will be based upon work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer.

Additional Information

HGA is a place where you can do your best work. We believe that enduring, impactful design results from deep insight into the people and passions that animate each unique environment. We value empathy, are fueled by curiosity, and embrace the hard work that leads to innovation. Equally important is our commitment to creating a culture of inclusivity and diversity where we encourage your originality, respect the need for flexibility and work-life balance, and empower your desired career growth. HGA is a national award-winning interdisciplinary design firm rooted in architecture and engineering. Learn more about us here.