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Senior Project Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

EwingCole

Senior Project Architect

Irvine, CA · On-site

$130K - $170K/yr

We are seeking a Senior Project Architec t to join our Irvine office. As part of the architecture discipline, the Senior Project Architect leads project delivery across all phases of design, from ...

EwingCole

Senior Project Architect

Irvine, CA · Hybrid

$130K - $170K/yr

As part of the architecture discipline, the Senior Project Architect leads project delivery across all phases of design, from schematic design through construction administration, ensuring design ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100 - $140/hr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

Mountain View, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

DGA

Senior Project Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$100K - $140K/yr

As a senior project architect at DGA, you will: * Manage multiple aspects of client, team and project coordination, including full documentation coordination * Manage communication between project ...

HDR

Senior Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$106K - $135K/yr

In the role of Senior Project Architect, we'll count on you to: * Lead a multidiscipline team and perform layout and detailing on architectural projects * Independently coordinate work of a ...

Northern Impact

Senior Project Architect

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$105K - $134K/yr

Office locations include Mountain View, San Francisco, Sacramento, and San Diego Role Requirements The company is seeking a passionate, experienced Senior Project Architect, with a minimum of 10 ...

HDR

Senior Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$106K - $135K/yr

In the role of Senior Project Architect, we'll count on you to: * Lead a multidiscipline team and perform layout and detailing on architectural projects * Independently coordinate work of a ...

Blueprint Hires

Sr. Project Architect

Irvine, CA

$105K - $133K/yr

An architecture firm that specializes in designing innovative and functional healthcare facilities is seeking a Senior Project Architect to help them design and review architectural and engineering ...

Northern Impact

Senior Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$106K - $135K/yr

Overview Award-winning architecture firm that is reputably one of the best places to work in Los Angeles & San Diego, earning California's Design Firm of the Year, is seeking a Senior Project ...

Carrierjohnson

Senior Project Architect

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140 - $190/hr

As a Senior Project Architect, you will partner with clients, design leaders, project managers, and interdisciplinary teams to deliver thoughtful, high-performing environments that serve communities ...

New

Northern Impact

Senior Project Architect

San Diego, CA · On-site

$105K - $133K/yr

Overview Award-winning architecture firm that is reputably one of the best places to work in Los Angeles & San Diego, earning California's Design Firm of the Year, is seeking a Senior Project ...

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All JobsProject Architect JobsSenior Project Architect JobsSenior Project Architect Jobs in California

Senior Project Architect information

See California salary details

$71.6K

$111.3K

$144.6K

How much do senior project architect jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior project architect in California is $111,262.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,700.00 and $124,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a senior project architect?

Senior Project Architects are experienced professionals who lead the design and management of architectural projects from conception through completion. They oversee the work of teams, coordinate with clients and consultants, and ensure that projects meet all regulatory, budgetary, and quality requirements. Senior Project Architects are responsible for translating client needs into functional and aesthetic designs while managing schedules and resources. Their expertise is crucial in resolving complex design and construction challenges and ensuring the successful delivery of large or complex projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a senior project architect?

To thrive as a Senior Project Architect, you need advanced expertise in architectural design, project management, and a professional degree in architecture, often supported by licensure such as an NCARB certification. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM systems, along with knowledge of building codes and construction documentation, is crucial. Exceptional leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills set top performers apart by enabling effective team coordination and client relations. These abilities are vital for delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget while ensuring client satisfaction and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges senior project architects face when leading multidisciplinary teams?

Senior Project Architects often coordinate teams that include designers, engineers, consultants, and contractors, which can present challenges in aligning diverse perspectives and expertise. Managing communication, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout all project phases, and balancing client needs with technical constraints are frequent hurdles. Effective leadership, strong organizational skills, and proactive conflict resolution are essential for guiding the team toward successful project delivery while meeting deadlines and budgets.

What is the difference between Senior Project Architect vs Project Manager?

AspectSenior Project ArchitectProject Manager
CredentialsArchitect license, architecture degree, possibly LEED or other certificationsProject management certifications (PMP), degree in business, management, or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign studios, architectural firms, construction sitesConstruction sites, client offices, project offices
Employer & Industry UsageArchitecture firms, design consultanciesConstruction companies, general contractors, development firms

While both roles involve overseeing projects, the Senior Project Architect primarily focuses on design, technical details, and architectural quality, whereas the Project Manager handles project planning, budgeting, and client communication. The Senior Project Architect ensures design integrity, while the Project Manager ensures project delivery on time and within budget.

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 cities in California are hiring for Senior Project Architect jobs?

Cities in California with the most Senior Project Architect job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Senior Project Architect jobs in CA?

For Senior Project Architect jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Senior Project Architect jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Project 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 $111,262 per year, or $53.5 per hour.

Senior Project Architect

Handel Architects

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$115K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Job Title
Senior Project Architect
Location
San Francisco - San Francisco, CA 94103 US (Primary)
Years of Experience
10+
Job Description
About Handel Architects
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 Senior Project Architect with 10+ years of experience to join our design-driven team and support the delivery of high-quality architectural projects from early design through construction.
This role is suited to a well-rounded, self-directed Architect with technical expertise, clear communication skills, and the ability to work effectively across teams.
As a Senior Project Architect, you will work closely with Project Managers to lead project teams on multiple concurrent projects and across all phases. Responsibilities include coordinating with consultants, collaborating with internal design teams, interfacing with clients, and helping manage project schedules and deliverables. You will play a key role in maintaining technical quality, consistency, and efficiency throughout the project lifecycle. You will be responsible supporting projects through construction, ensuring design intent is accurately translated into buildable solutions, and for developing and coordinating construction documents.
This position offers the opportunity to take ownership of meaningful work and grow professionally within a collaborative and supportive studio environment.
Qualifications:
  • 10+ years of experience with all phases of architectural projects; large scale multi-family, hospitality and/or mixed-use experience preferred.
  • Demonstrated success completing one or more buildings as a Project Architect from conception through construction.
  • Professional degree in Architecture.
  • Architectural license required; California license strongly preferred.
  • 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.
  • Experience directing a team of architects, designers, and consultants.
  • Experience coordinating consultant teams and leading meetings.
  • Revit proficiency.
  • Strong organizational and technical capability, including demonstrated experience with preparing, coordinating, and delivering construction drawings and specification submissions.
  • Experience in Construction Administration and jobsite visits.
  • Demonstrated success with making difficult decisions, especially in the presence of incomplete information or conflicting interests.
  • Understands basic risk management strategies, including protection of both the firm and the client.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Highly organized, technically knowledgeable, and detail-oriented.
  • Collaborative team player, able to contribute effectively in a studio environment.
  • Experience in mentoring and sharing knowledge to all levels.
  • Self-motivated and capable of managing tasks independently.

What We Offer
  • Salary: $115,000+
  • 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

Apply