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Architectural Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Architectural Project Manager Business Unit: iDNA Reports To: Director of Architecture Location: DTLA (On-Site) Start Date: ASAP ***ONLY LOCAL CANDIDATES WILL BE CONSIDERED*** COMPANY DESCRIPTION ...

Architectural Project Manager

Oakland, CA ยท On-site

$91K - $122K/yr

Experience preparing construction documents, permit sets, and detailed architectural drawings ... Ability to manage multiple projects and meet project deadlines and client expectations . * Strong ...

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Architectural Project Manager

Napa, CA ยท On-site

$105K - $130K/yr

The Project Manager for Architecture and Engineering Commercial & Retail is responsible for overseeing the successful planning, execution, and delivery of complex commercial and retail construction ...

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Architectural Manager information

See California salary details

$50.3K

$93.5K

$129.3K

How much do architectural manager jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for architectural manager in California is $93,450.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,000.00 and $105,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an architectural manager do?

An Architectural Manager oversees teams of architects and related professionals to plan, design, and review construction projects. They are responsible for coordinating project timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring that designs meet client requirements, building codes, and safety standards. Architectural Managers also liaise with clients, contractors, and regulatory agencies throughout the project lifecycle. Their role combines leadership, technical expertise, and project management skills to deliver successful architectural outcomes.

How does an architectural manager typically collaborate with cross-functional teams throughout a project's lifecycle?

Architectural Managers play a central role in coordinating with professionals such as engineers, contractors, and interior designers to ensure project objectives are met. They lead design teams, facilitate client meetings, and regularly communicate with project stakeholders to address technical challenges and align expectations. Effective collaboration involves managing timelines, integrating feedback from multiple disciplines, and overseeing quality control to deliver cohesive architectural solutions. Regular coordination meetings and clear documentation are essential for keeping all team members aligned and projects on track.

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

To thrive as an Architectural Manager, you need a solid background in architecture or engineering, project management expertise, and typically a professional license such as an architect registration. Proficiency in design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and project management tools, along with knowledge of building codes and regulations, is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills help you effectively guide multidisciplinary teams and manage client expectations. These skills and qualifications are vital for delivering successful projects on time, within budget, and to high professional standards.

What is the difference between Architectural Manager vs Architectural Designer?

AspectArchitectural ManagerArchitectural Designer
Required CredentialsArchitect license, project management experienceArchitecture degree, licensing not always required
Work EnvironmentOversees projects, manages teams, liaises with clientsDesigns concepts, prepares drawings, focuses on creative work
Employer & Industry UsageArchitecture firms, construction companiesDesign studios, architecture firms

The main difference is that Architectural Managers oversee entire projects and manage teams, requiring licensure and experience, while Architectural Designers focus on creating designs and drawings, often without requiring licensure. Both roles are essential in the architecture industry but serve different functions within project development.

How much do architectural managers make in the US?

Architectural managers in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $100,000 to $150,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the firm. They often oversee design teams, coordinate projects, and require licensure and strong leadership skills.

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

The most popular types of Architectural jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Architectural Manager jobs?

Cities in California with the most Architectural Manager job openings:

Infographic showing various Architectural Manager job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 9% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 81% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 17% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,450 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Architectural Manager, Aviation

FRANKFURT-SHORT-BRUZA ASSOCIATES PC

Los Angeles, CA โ€ข On-site

$86K - $115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

FSB has joined Colliers Engineering & Design. Read about it here.

At FSB Architects + Engineers, an affiliate of Colliers Engineering & Design, we believe exceptional aviation projects start with exceptional teams. For decades, we've partnered with clients to solve complex challenges, deliver thoughtful design solutions, and create environments that support the people, operations, and communities they serve. Behind that work are talented professionals who grow through strong leadership, meaningful opportunities, and the support to take on increasingly complex challenges.

We're seeking an experienced Architectural Manager to lead, develop, and support the architectural team within our Aviation Studio. As a People Manager, this role is responsible for the day-to-day leadership and professional development of architectural staff while overseeing the quality and execution of their project work. The Architectural Manager maintains a clear understanding of team workload, priorities, deadlines, and capabilities; translates project requirements into actionable work plans; and helps staff build the technical and professional skills needed to successfully deliver increasingly complex aviation projects.

Working closely with the Aviation Studio Director, other Architectural Managers, Project Managers, engineers, consultants, and other disciplines, this role helps align people, project needs, and technical execution while creating an environment of accountability, collaboration, continuous improvement, and professional growth.

If you're passionate about developing people, building strong teams, and helping architectural professionals deliver exceptional work within the aviation design space, we'd love to connect with you.

Responsibilities

  • Lead, supervise, and develop architectural staff within the Aviation Studio, providing day-to-day direction, coaching, feedback, and accountability.
  • Plan staff workload and assignments in coordination with the Aviation Studio Director, other Architectural Managers, and Project Managers, balancing project needs, schedules, and staff capabilities.
  • Coach and mentor staff in technical skills, communication, problem solving, prioritization, collaboration, and effective project execution.
  • Conduct performance reviews, support professional development, and participate in recruiting, interviewing, and hiring architectural staff.
  • Oversee architectural production and deliverables across all project phases, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, budget, quality standards, and the professional standard of care.
  • Translate project schedules and milestones into clear work plans, priorities, and expectations for architectural staff.
  • Provide technical review of architectural work to ensure deliverables are coordinated, constructable, biddable, and compliant with project requirements, codes, and firm standards.
  • Guide staff in planning, documenting, detailing, and coordinating complex aviation projects, including work within active airport environments.
  • Lead and support architectural activities through bidding, construction administration, and project closeout.
  • Implement and maintain architectural production standards and identify opportunities to improve quality, consistency, efficiency, and constructability.
  • Serve as a subject matter expert for architectural project teams, conducting code reviews and providing guidance on complex technical, design, and constructability issues.
  • Contribute to firm-wide architectural standards and best practices, while engaging with clients and project stakeholders as needed to support technical coordination and project delivery.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture.
  • Licensed Architect required.
  • 10+ years of architectural experience.
  • Aviation or airport project experience strongly preferred.
  • Experience leading, scheduling, supervising, and developing architectural staff.
  • Strong knowledge of architectural project delivery, documentation, detailing, building codes, construction methods, and constructability.
  • Experience with multidisciplinary coordination and technical review of architectural deliverables.
  • Strong leadership, communication, organization, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  • Proficiency with Revit and Microsoft Office applications.

Work Arrangement & Travel

  • This is a full-time, on-site position based in our Los Angeles, CA office.
  • Travel may be required to support project site visits, construction activities, airport coordination, project meetings, recruiting activities, and other Aviation Studio needs.

Physical Requirements

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
  • Ability to travel to project sites, airports, and client locations.
  • Ability to navigate active construction sites and airport facilities, including walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods while conducting site observations.
  • Must be able to occasionally lift up to 25 pounds.

Compensation and Benefits

The expected salary range for this position is $140,000 to $175,000 per year. Compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, education, licensure, skills, internal equity, and location. This role is eligible for a benefits package that may include medical, dental, vision, paid time off, paid holidays, and retirement plan options. Stated benefits are for regular full-time positions. Temporary and part-time roles are eligible for limited benefits.

Why FSB

At FSB Architects + Engineers, our people and relationships set us apart. We bring together architects, engineers, interior designers, and planners to deliver innovative solutions across aviation, federal, civic, commercial, education, healthcare, mission critical, and other specialized markets.

As an Architectural Manager, you'll have the opportunity to make an impact not only through the projects we deliver, but through the people you lead and develop. If you're passionate about helping others grow, strengthening teams, and advancing the quality of aviation design, we'd love to hear from you.

Frankfurt-Short-Bruza Associates, P.C. provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.