Principal Project Manager Jobs in Novato, CA (NOW HIRING)

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15+

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.

Our San Francisco studio is seeking a Project Manager with 15+ years of experience to join or design-driven team and lead the delivery of high-quality architectural projects from early design through construction.

This role is suited to an experience, self-directed professional with strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills, as well as a deep understanding of architectural practice and project delivery. You will be responsible for overall project management, including scope definition, budgeting, scheduling, consultant coordination, and client communication, while supporting design excellence and technical quality.

As an Architectural Project Manager, you will work closely with Principals and Senior Project Architects to lead multidisciplinary project teams across multiple concurrent projects and all phases of work. Responsibilities include managing project work plans, coordinating consultants, overseeing schedules and budgets, facilitating client meetings, and guiding teams through permitting, documentation, and construction administration. You will play a key role in risk management, issue resolution, and maintaining consistency and accountability throughout the project lifecycle.

This position offers the opportunity to take ownership of complex projects, contribute to firm-wide standards and processes, and mentor team members within a collaborative and supportive studio environment.

• 15+ years of experience with all phases of architectural projects; large scale multi-family, hospitality and/or mixed-use experience preferred.
• Professional degree in Architecture.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex projects through all phases, from programming and design through construction administration.
• Experience with risk management, including protection of both the firm and the client.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including client-facing experience.
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Demonstrated success with making difficult decisions, especially in the presence of incomplete information or conflicting interests.
• Strong knowledge of zoning regulations, planning codes, and entitlement process.
• Strong knowledge of building codes and permit processes. Experience with San Francisco or other California jurisdictions preferred.
• Proficiency in Revit and related project management and documentation tools.

• Lead and manage architectural projects from inception through completion, ensuring alignment with scope, schedule, budget, and quality objectives.
• Prepare, review, and administer owner-architect and consultant agreements, including defining scopes of services and fee structures.
• Develop and oversee project work plans, schedules, and budgets; monitor progress and implement corrective actions as needed.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, consultants, and project stakeholders; maintain positive and professional relationships.
• Assemble and coordinate multidisciplinary consultant teams and internal staff across all project phases.
• Facilitate project meetings, document decisions, and manage project communication.
• Oversee permitting, construction documentation, and construction administration activities.
• Identify and manage project risks, resolve issues, and support quality control efforts.
• Mentor and support team members while contributing to firm standards and best practices.
• Participate in business and leadership activities as appropriate, including staffing allocation, financial projections, performance reviews, business development, event attendance or speaking engagements, and involvement in professional or community organizations.

• Annual Discretionary Bonus
• Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life)
• Competitive PTO
• 401(k) with employer contribution
• Downtown office near Powell BART/Muni station