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Architects Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

Handel Architects is an award-winning, full-service Architecture, Planning, and Interior Design firm with offices in San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Hong Kong. We specialize in innovative ...

Project Architects

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

Position Title Project Architect This role offers an exceptional opportunity for a Project Architect to contribute to meaningful educational projects across California. The successful candidate will ...

Project Architect

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$78K - $120K/yr

Flad Architects is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Flad will provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual ...

Architect

San Diego, CA · Hybrid

$78K - $120K/yr

Flad Architects is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Flad will provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual ...

Project Architect

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$90K - $150K/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 ...

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$85K - $127K/yr

Who We Are HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to design for good ...

Project Architect

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$90K - $150K/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 ...

Wealth Architect

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$82K - $113K/yr

Oversee Associate Wealth Architects on the following: * Review Daily Transaction Summary (ensure money movements, asset transfers, rebalances, etc. execute according to instructions). * Review ...

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

Who We Are HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to design for good ...

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site +1

$85K - $127K/yr

Who We Are HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to design for good ...

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 ...

Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$85K - $127K/yr

Who We Are HMC Architects is an employee-owned design firm with an inherent desire to make a difference in our communities. As a purpose-driven brand based on values, our mission to design for good ...

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Showing results 1-20

Architects information

See California salary details

$55.8K

$97K

$136.2K

How much do architects jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for architects in California is $96,976.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $109,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Architects vs Civil Engineers?

AspectArchitectsCivil Engineers
CredentialsArchitectural degree, licensing examsEngineering degree, PE license
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, client meetingsConstruction sites, engineering offices
Industry UsageBuilding design, aestheticsStructural integrity, infrastructure

Architects focus on designing buildings and ensuring aesthetic appeal, while Civil Engineers concentrate on structural safety and infrastructure development. Both roles require specialized credentials and often collaborate during construction projects, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

Are architects a high paying job?

Architects are generally considered to have a high-paying profession, with salaries varying based on experience, location, and specialization. Senior architects and those working in large firms or urban areas tend to earn higher wages, often supplemented by licensing and advanced skills in design software. However, entry-level positions may offer lower starting salaries compared to other professional fields.

What type of jobs do architects do?

Architects design and plan buildings and structures, creating detailed drawings and specifications for construction. They collaborate with clients, engineers, and contractors, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software, and may oversee project development from concept to completion.

What are the most commonly searched types of Architects jobs in California?

The most popular types of Architects jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Architects jobs?

Cities in California with the most Architects job openings:

Infographic showing various Architects job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 8% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,976 per year, or $46.6 per hour.

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Job Title
Project Architect
Location
San Francisco - San Francisco, CA 94103 US (Primary)
Years of Experience
8+
Job Description
About Handel Architects
Handel Architects is a nationally recognized architecture firm with offices in New York City, Boston, San Francisco, and Hong Kong. Our work includes interior design, architecture and urban design and aims to leverage individual opportunities to create something greater: positive urban and social change. We are a fast-paced and results-driven firm and are looking for people that share our passion.
Handel Architects is an award-winning, full-service Architecture, Planning, and Interior Design firm with offices in San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Hong Kong. We specialize in innovative, sustainability-driven solutions that shape vibrant communities worldwide. Our San Francisco office specializes in complex mixed-use and multi-family residential projects, from boutique urban infill to large-scale high-rise developments.
We're a collaborative team of passionate Architects and Designers who thrive in an open studio environment. We share ideas, support each other, and design spaces that positively impact lives. Our culture values creativity, camaraderie, and growth-we celebrate achievements, work hard, and genuinely enjoy what we do.
We operate on a hybrid schedule: in-office Monday-Thursday, with optional remote work on Fridays.
About the Job
Our San Francisco studio is seeking a Project Architect with 8+ years of experience to join our design-driven team.
We are looking for a talented, well-rounded Architect who is adept at solving problems and can work effectively in a team environment. Blending design sensibilities with technical rigor, you will play a key role in shaping buildings-from early feasibility and conceptual design through documentation and construction-ensuring design intent is carried through all phases.
As a Project Architect, you will collaborate closely with Senior Project Architects and Project Managers. You will work directly with consultants and clients, contributing meaningfully to the delivery of thoughtful, well-executed, and inspiring buildings that enrich the urban environment.
This role is an excellent opportunity for a motivated Architect seeking professional growth, increased responsibility, and the chance to contribute to impactful projects within a supportive, collaborative studio culture.
Qualifications
  • 8+ years of professional architectural experience across all project phases, from feasibility through documentation and construction
  • Experience with medium-to-large-scale multifamily residential projects preferred
  • Professional degree in Architecture
  • CA Licensed Architect preferred
  • Familiarity with zoning regulations, planning codes, and building codes
  • Familiarity with LEED and GreenPoint Rated certification systems a plus
  • Proficiency in Revit required
  • Experience with 3D modeling and rendering tools (Rhino, D5, Enscape)
  • Experience with Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • Proven experience producing coordinated and comprehensive construction documents
  • Experience with Construction Administration and jobsite observations
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills, including client presentations
  • Highly organized, technically proficient, and detail-oriented
  • Collaborative team player who contributes effectively in a studio environment
  • Experience mentoring and sharing knowledge across multiple staff levels
  • Self-motivated and capable of managing tasks independently

What We Offer
  • Competitive Salary
  • Annual discretionary bonus
  • Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life)
  • Competitive PTO
  • 401(k) with employer contribution
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Downtown office near Powell BART/Muni station
  • Calm, collaborative work environment

How to Apply
Portfolios are required for this job application. Applications without portfolios cannot be considered.