ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Project Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

VeeRteq Solutions Inc.

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

Project Architect Location : San Francisco, CA Salary: Open Prioritized Must Have Skills for the Project Architect: #1. Bachelors Degree #2. California Architects License #3. Minimum of 8 years of ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA

$97K - $130K/yr

The Project Architect , while working under general supervision of a Senior Job Captain and/or Architect or Project Manager, provides design support primarily in project administration, design ...

Luxus

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$132K - $154K/yr

Project Architect - Commercial Mixed-Use Company: Solomon Cordwell Buenz (Represented by Luxus Group Recruiting) Location: San Francisco, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $132,000 - $154 ...

Luxus

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$132K - $154K/yr

Project Architect - Commercial Mixed-Use Company: Solomon Cordwell Buenz (Represented by Luxus Group Recruiting) Location: San Francisco, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $132,000 - $154 ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

The Project Architect , while working under general supervision of a Senior Job Captain and/or Architect or Project Manager, provides design support primarily in project administration, design ...

Luxus

Project Architect

San Francisco, CA

$132K - $154K/yr

Project Architect - Commercial Mixed-Use Company: Solomon Cordwell Buenz (Represented by Luxus Group Recruiting) Location: San Francisco, CA Employment Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $132,000 - $154 ...

Boutique Recruiting

Project Architect

El Segundo, 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 ...

IA Interior Architects

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$85K - $105K/yr

The Project Architect, while working under general supervision of a Senior Job Captain and/or Architect or Project Manager, provides design support primarily in project administration, design ...

PBK

Project Architect

Folsom, CA · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

The Project Architect is responsible for producing high quality construction documents per PBK standards. The Project Architect will participate in all phases of the project, including Schematic ...

RQ Construction

Project Architect

Carlsbad, CA · Hybrid

$100K - $130K/yr

The Project Architect will actively manage multiple projects and provide oversight across a variety of key disciplines including fire protection/life safety, civil, landscape architecture, structural ...

PBK

Project Architect

Folsom, CA · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

The Project Architect is responsible for producing high quality construction documents per PBK standards. The Project Architect will participate in all phases of the project, including Schematic ...

PBK

Project Architect

Berkeley, CA · On-site

$89K - $134K/yr

The Project Architect is responsible for producing high quality construction documents per PBK standards. The Project Architect will participate in all phases of the project, including Schematic ...

RQ Construction

Project Architect

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$100K - $130K/yr

The Project Architect will actively manage multiple projects and provide oversight across a variety of key disciplines including fire protection/life safety, civil, landscape architecture, structural ...

Studio+

Project Architect

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$89K - $119K/yr

Project Architect / Senior Project Architect (Senior title reflects greater experience, leadership, and technical expertise) Department: Architecture Reports To: Principal / Project Manager Position ...

Studio AR&D Architects

Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$89K - $119K/yr

Currently, we are seeking a Project Architect to join our fast-paced and dynamic studio. The ideal candidate will bring extensive technical knowledge of architectural design and construction, with ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProject Architect JobsProject Architect Jobs in California

Project Architect information

See California salary details

$55.8K

$97K

$136.2K

How much do project architect jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for project architect 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 Does a Project Architect Do?

A project architect performs a mix of design and administrative duties at an architecture firm. As a project architect, your responsibilities entail contributing to every step of the design and building process. You make site visits to plan how to integrate your designs within the natural landscape or built environment, work with a team of architects and planners to develop several designs for your clients to choose, draft budgets and procurement documents, and complete the designs to your clients’ specifications. Unlike other architects, however, you also contribute to the construction process and oversee its execution.

What is the difference between Project Architect vs Design Architect?

AspectProject ArchitectDesign Architect
CredentialsArchitect license, possibly LEED or other certificationsArchitect license, focus on design credentials
Work EnvironmentOversees project execution, coordinates teams, manages construction phasesFocuses on conceptual design, creative development, and presentation
Employer & Industry UsageArchitecture firms, construction companies, project managementArchitecture firms, design studios, creative agencies

While both roles require an architecture license and involve design skills, the Project Architect primarily manages the project's execution and coordination, ensuring designs are built according to plans. The Design Architect concentrates on developing innovative concepts and visualizations during the initial design phases. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in architecture projects.

How does a Project Architect typically collaborate with engineers and contractors during the design and construction phases?

Project Architects frequently coordinate with engineers and contractors to ensure that design intent aligns with structural, mechanical, and construction requirements. This collaboration often involves regular meetings, reviewing technical drawings, and promptly addressing Requests for Information (RFIs) or site issues as they arise. Effective communication skills and the ability to translate design concepts into practical solutions are vital, as the Project Architect serves as a bridge between the client, design team, and construction professionals to keep the project on track and within budget.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Project Architect, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Project Architect, you need strong architectural design skills, project management experience, and a professional degree in architecture along with state licensure. Proficiency in BIM software like Revit, AutoCAD, and project management tools such as MS Project is typically required. Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving abilities help in coordinating teams and liaising with clients and stakeholders. These skills are crucial for delivering successful projects on time, within budget, and to the client's specifications.

What does a Project Architect do?

A Project Architect is responsible for designing and overseeing the construction of buildings from concept through completion. They coordinate with clients, engineers, and contractors to ensure that the project meets design specifications, building codes, and client needs. Project Architects manage project timelines, budgets, and documentation, and often supervise junior architects and other team members. Their role is crucial in transforming ideas into safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures.
More about Project Architect jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Project Architect jobs in California? The most popular types of Project Architect jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Project Architect jobs in California? For Project Architect jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Project Architect jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Project Architect jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Project Architect jobs? Cities in California with the most Project Architect job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Project Architect jobs in CA? For Project Architect jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Project Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Project Architect job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,976 per year, or $46.6 per hour.
Project Architect

Project Architect

Handel Architects

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$97K - $130K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 hours 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.

Apply