Senior Architect

Job details

Posted 03 September 2026

Start date 07 December 2026

Salary Range USD

120000

• 160000

per Year

Location Del Mar

Job type Permanent

Discipline Civil Structural and Architectural

Reference 169947

Job Function Architect

Principal Studio Leader

We are currently seeking a high caliber CA-Licensed Architect for a long-term basis within our client’s team of experienced professionals. Based in San Diego, CA.

Our client is seeking an accomplished, licensed architect to join its San Diego office as a Senior Architect and future Studio Leader. This leadership-track position is designed for a seasoned professional who possesses strong technical expertise, proven project leadership skills, and a passion for building client relationships and growing a practice within the San Diego market.

The successful candidate will work closely with the current San Diego Studio Leader to ensure a seamless leadership transition over time. This individual will play a key role in managing staff, leading project delivery, supporting business development initiatives, and strengthening our clients presence throughout San Diego County and Southern California.

This position offers a unique opportunity for an experienced architect to shape the future of an established and respected architectural practice while contributing to the firm's continued growth across multiple market sectors.

Job Requirements

Leadership & Studio Management

• Partner with the current Studio Leader to support the strategic growth and operational success of the San Diego office.

• Mentor, coach, and develop architectural staff, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and professional growth.

• Assist with staff resource planning, project staffing, performance management, and employee development.

• Promote and reinforce SVA Architects' culture, values, and commitment to design excellence.

• Participate in leadership meetings and contribute to firmwide strategic initiatives.

Project Leadership

• Lead complex architectural projects from programming and design through construction administration.

• Provide technical oversight and quality control for project teams.Manage project schedules, budgets, staffing plans, and client expectations.Guide multidisciplinary teams to successful project outcomes.

• Ensure compliance with applicable codes, regulations, and client requirements.

Business Development & Client Relations

• Maintain and expand relationships within the San Diego design, development, education, and public-sector communities.

• Actively participate in project pursuits, proposal development, presentations, and client interviews.

• Collaborate with firm leadership on strategic business development initiatives.

• Identify opportunities for new projects and market expansion.

• Represent SVA Architects at industry organizations, community events, and professional associations.

Technical Leadership

• Provide technical direction and guidance to project teams.

• Utilize Revit to review, navigate, and direct project teams regarding design and documentation changes.

• Support BI standards and best practices throughout project execution.

• Maintain a strong understanding of current building technologies, codes, and construction methods.

Qualifications:

• Licensed Architect in California.

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Architecture from an accredited program.

• Minimum 12-15 years of progressive architectural experience.

• Demonstrated experience managing architectural teams and project staff.

• Strong project management experience with responsibility for project delivery, budgets, schedules, and client relationships.

• Significant experience with:

• Multifamily Housing

• Affordable Housing

• Senior Housing

• Mixed-Use Residential Developments

• Demonstrated experience delivering DSA projects.

• K-12 educational facility experience required.

• Experience participating in project pursuits, proposal development, and interview presentations.

• Strong working knowledge of Revit with the ability to navigate project models anddirect design and documentation modifications.

• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Existing professional relationships within the San Diego architecture, development, education, and public-sector communities

• Experience leading office operations or managing a studio, department, or business unit.

• Familiarity with Southern California market trends, entitlement processes, and development opportunities.

• Active participation in industry organizations such as AIA, ULI, BIA, CASBO, CASH, or similar professional groups.

• Experience contributing to strategic planning and business development initiatives

***Notice to Candidates: Background checks are carried out as part of any conditional offer made, including (but not limited to & role dependent) education, professional registration, employment, references, passport verifications and Global Watchlist screening .

To be Considered Candidates: Must be authorized to work in the USA without sponsorship***

Employment Type: Direct/Permanent

Location of Position: San Diego, CA

Location Type: Office, Project Site (on occasion)

TRS Staffing Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recognizes the value of a diverse workforce. Employment decisions are based on job related criteria and not on the basis of any unlawful criteria. We ensure equal access to employment opportunities, services, and programs.

Must have legal right to work in the United States. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified individuals will receive consideration for employment without regard to race; color; age; sex; sexual orientation; gender identity; religion; national origin; disability; veteran status; genetic information; or any other criteria protected by governing law.