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Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Le Architecture

Architect

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Bonuses Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Architect / Project Manager / Sr. Designer to join our team. In this role, you will plan, design, and oversee the construction of new buildings. Your ...

Le Architecture

Architect

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Bonuses Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Architect / Project Manager / Sr. Designer to join our team. In this role, you will plan, design, and oversee the construction of new buildings. Your ...

Le Architecture

Architect

Monrovia, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Bonuses Job Summary We are seeking an experienced Architect / Project Manager / Sr. Designer to join our team. In this role, you will plan, design, and oversee the construction of new buildings. Your ...

WHITMORE ARCHITECTS INC

Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

Whitmore Architects is seeking to hire an Architect with strong creative and analytical capabilities. The ideal candidate is a licensed architect with 5 - 7 years of professional experience. The ...

WHITMORE ARCHITECTS INC

Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

Whitmore Architects is seeking to hire an Architect with strong creative and analytical capabilities. The ideal candidate is a licensed architect with 5 - 7 years of professional experience. The ...

Lowney Architecture

Architect - Oakland

Oakland, CA · On-site

Lowney Architecture is looking for a Licensed Architect to lead technical delivery and coordination across multiple project types. This role offers autonomy, leadership responsibility, and the ...

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CALIFORNIA ARCHITECT

Solana Beach, CA · On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Licensed California Architect / Future Partner Opportunity We are a well-established, residential architecture firm specializing in custom homes and high-end residential design throughout California.

Flad Architects

Architect

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$78K - $120K/yr

Flad is a national architectural firm, with ten offices across the country. With expertise in the Science & Technology, Higher Education, and Developer markets, our Flad San Diego team of creative ...

Lowney Architecture

Architect - Oakland

Oakland, CA · On-site

Lowney Architecture is looking for a Licensed Architect to lead technical delivery and coordination across multiple project types. This role offers autonomy, leadership responsibility, and the ...

Flad Architects

Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$78K - $120K/yr

Flad is a national architectural firm, with ten offices across the country. With expertise in the Science & Technology, Higher Education, and Developer markets, our Flad San Diego team of creative ...

Handel Architects

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

Job Title Project Architect Location San Francisco - San Francisco, CA 94103 US (Primary) Years of Experience 8+ About Handel Architects Handel Architects is a nationally recognized architecture firm ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Strong Revit skills required IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies and business drivers. Our ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

Strong Revit skills required IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies and business drivers. Our ...

19six Architects

Project Architect

Santa Barbara, CA

$92K - $123K/yr

Originally founded in Santa Barbara in 1906, our firm is one of California's most established and enduring architectural firms, rooted in serving clients within the K-12, Higher Education, Healt ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA

$97K - $130K/yr

Strong Revit skills required IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies and business drivers. Our ...

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All JobsArchitect JobsArchitect Jobs in California

Architect information

See California salary details

$45.9K

$127.1K

$198.9K

How much do architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for architect in California is $127,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $89,800.00 and $163,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Architect vs Civil Engineer?

AspectArchitectCivil Engineer
Primary FocusDesign and aesthetics of buildingsStructural integrity and infrastructure
Required CredentialsArchitecture degree, licensureCivil engineering degree, licensure
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetingsConstruction sites, engineering offices
Industry UsageConstruction, real estate developmentInfrastructure, transportation, construction

While both architects and civil engineers work in the construction industry and require related credentials, architects primarily focus on building design and aesthetics, whereas civil engineers concentrate on structural integrity and infrastructure development. Their work environments and roles complement each other, often collaborating on projects to ensure both design excellence and structural safety.

What does an architect do?

Architects are licensed professionals who design buildings. It is the job of an architect to oversee the development of a project from its initial vision to completed construction. They must adhere to building codes and safety regulations, while simultaneously satisfying the expectations of the clients who contract them. Architects touch every aspect of a building. They meet with clients to assess all fundamental requirements and restrictions for the project, and afterward create and draw up the initial concept and design. These proposed plans will include every detail of the building, from structural design to electrical systems to exterior aesthetics. There may be several iterations between an architect and a client before the final design is solidified. Once the plan is set, an architect often assists the client with acquiring a construction crew, and may even frequent the building site of that project to ensure that timelines and quality standards are being met. Throughout a project, an architect is instrumental in the selection of the building site, cost analysis prep and budgeting plans, and mediation between the construction crew and the client. It is the responsibility of the architect to make sure that everything runs smoothly and the vision is carried out correctly and efficiently.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Architect, you need a solid background in architectural design, building codes, and construction methods, typically supported by a professional degree in architecture and state licensure. Proficiency with CAD/BIM software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp, along with knowledge of project management tools, is essential. Strong creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills help architects collaborate effectively and address client needs. These competencies ensure that architects can design safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures while meeting regulatory and client requirements.

What are some common challenges architects face when working on large-scale projects?

Architects working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, managing tight deadlines, and ensuring compliance with building codes and client specifications. Effective communication is crucial, as architects must regularly collaborate with engineers, contractors, and stakeholders to address design changes and resolve issues. Balancing aesthetic vision with functional and budgetary constraints is also a frequent hurdle, requiring creative problem-solving and adaptability throughout the project's lifecycle.

Does it take 7 years to become an architect?

Becoming an architect typically requires about 5 to 7 years of education and training, including earning a professional degree in architecture and completing a required internship or work experience. Afterward, candidates must pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) to become licensed. The exact timeline can vary depending on educational paths and licensing requirements in different regions.

Are architects paid a lot?

Architects' salaries vary based on experience, location, and firm size, but generally they earn a median annual wage that is above the national average for all occupations. Senior architects with licensure and specialized skills tend to earn higher salaries, especially in large or competitive markets. Salary growth can also be influenced by additional certifications and project management responsibilities.

What kind of jobs do architects get?

Architects typically work on designing and planning buildings and structures, including residential, commercial, and public projects. They may also be involved in project management, site analysis, and collaborating with engineers and clients, often using tools like CAD software. Licensing and certifications are usually required to practice professionally.
More about Architect jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Architect jobs in California? The most popular types of Architect jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Architect jobs in California? For Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Architect jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Architect jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Architect jobs? Cities in California with the most Architect job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Architect jobs in CA? For Architect jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Architect job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $127,070 per year, or $61.1 per hour.

Architect

Le Architecture

Monrovia, CA • On-site

$80K - $100K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Benefits/Perks
  • Flexible work options
  • Competitive compensation
  • Career advancement opportunities
  • 401k
  • Health, Dental, Eye
  • Bonuses
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced Architect / Project Manager / Sr. Designer to join our team. In this role, you will plan, design, and oversee the construction of new buildings. Your responsibilities will include communicating with clients to determine project scope and requirements, creating estimates, preparing architectural plans, and monitoring the progress of construction. The ideal candidate is resourceful with an eye for detail and excellent project management skills.

Responsibilities 
  • Remain in communication with clients from the start of the project to the completion
  • Produce feasibility studies and design proposals
  • Create detailed blueprints and architectural plans
  • Ensure budgets and timelines are adhered to
  • Communicate with other construction professionals
  • Maintain up-to-date knowledge of architectural trends, building codes, and regulations
Qualifications 
  • Bachelor’s degree in architecture & licensed preferred. Not required.
  • Previous experience as a Project Architect with a portfolio of work is preferred
  • Familiarity with design software such as AutoCAD