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State Architect Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Project Architect

Sacramento, CA ยท On-site

$88K - $118K/yr

Division of the State Architect (DSA) and Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) Experience preferred * LEED accreditation preferred * 5-7 years of experience working on small- to large-scale ...

Project Architect IV, K-12

Los Angeles, CA ยท On-site

$89K - $119K/yr

The ideal candidate brings significant experience delivering California PreK-12 educational facilities, including a strong understanding of Division of the State Architect (DSA) requirements ...

The ideal candidate brings significant experience delivering California PreK-12 educational facilities, including a strong understanding of Division of the State Architect (DSA) requirements ...

Lead Architect

Irvine, CA

$59.25 - $81.25/hr

You willshapetarget state architecture and technology strategy for Capital Group Corporate Technology portfolio * You willmaintaina deep understanding of the application portfolios, including their ...

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State Architect information

What does a state architect do?

A State Architect is responsible for overseeing the design, construction, and maintenance of public buildings and infrastructure within a state. They ensure that projects comply with safety codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability requirements. State Architects often manage teams of architects, engineers, and contractors, and provide expertise in planning, budgeting, and project management for government facilities. Their work helps ensure that public buildings are safe, functional, and cost-effective.

What are some common challenges faced by state architects when working on public infrastructure projects?

State Architects often encounter challenges such as balancing design innovation with strict regulatory and budgetary constraints, coordinating with multiple government agencies, and ensuring compliance with accessibility and sustainability standards. Managing large-scale projects also requires effective communication with stakeholders, including engineers, contractors, and community representatives. Successfully navigating these complexities is key to delivering functional, safe, and aesthetically pleasing public spaces.

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

To thrive as a State Architect, you need a professional degree in architecture, state licensure, and strong knowledge of building codes and regulations. Proficiency with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and project management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills set top candidates apart by enabling effective collaboration and oversight of large-scale public projects. These competencies are crucial for ensuring the safety, functionality, and regulatory compliance of government buildings while managing complex stakeholder needs.

What is the difference between State Architect vs Building Inspector?

AspectState ArchitectBuilding Inspector
Required CredentialsArchitect license, state certificationBuilding inspection certification, state or local license
Work EnvironmentDesigning, planning, overseeing construction projectsInspecting buildings for code compliance
Employer & IndustryGovernment agencies, architectural firmsMunicipalities, private inspection companies

The State Architect primarily focuses on designing and overseeing construction projects, ensuring compliance with regulations during planning and development. Building Inspectors, on the other hand, evaluate existing structures for code compliance during or after construction. Both roles require relevant certifications and work within government or private sectors, but their core responsibilities differ significantly.

What cities in California are hiring for State Architect jobs? Cities in California with the most State Architect job openings:
Infographic showing various State Architect job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Project Architect

Northern Impact

Sacramento, CA โ€ข On-site

$88K - $118K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Overview
National multidisciplinary design firm is seeking a talented Project Architect to join their Sacramento office. In this role, you will be working on all phases of design & construction documentation with clients that serve our communities, the arts, and higher education campuses. This role requires excellent time management, communication, and technical skills as you work closely with a Principal or Project Manager and a team of consultants developing design concepts into high quality documents.
The firm has 11 offices all around the world focusing on healthcare, arts and culture, community, corporate, education, and government projects. Recently, the firm won the prestigious American Architecture Award for Museums and Cultural Building, along with IIDA Healthcare Design Award.
Responsibilities
  • Develops a thorough understanding of projects' design philosophy and provides major input in developing a design and building performance strategy, effectively conveying this to assigned team members when appropriate.
  • Provides technical design input and support for the development of the entire design concept. Responsible for a project's technical design effort, subsequent detailed design development, project coordination and quality control efforts during all phases of project work, in close collaboration with a Senior Designer and Project Manager.
  • Seeks creative and innovative solutions to assigned tasks and develops appropriate research and documents to support these solutions.
  • Actively collaborates with and coordinates work of consultants and knowledge resources to ensure the project deliverables are coordinated, integrated and support the design concept and performance goals of the project.
  • Contributes to the preparation of design documents and leads the detailed development of construction documents during all project phases, delivering complete, accurate and coordinated project documentation.
  • Advances the production of schematic, design development and construction document drawings and specifications in compliance with project scope, schedule, cost and design intent.
  • Reviews and aides coordination of project documents with relevant Building Codes, City Planning/Zoning ordinances and similar requirements for authorities having jurisdiction.
  • Maintains awareness of evolving building technology and systems.
  • Reviews shop drawings, material samples and Construction Documents for conformance with design.
  • Performs construction administration duties (e.g., RFI's, RFP's, change orders, etc.)
  • Maintains contact with clients, consultants and contractors during all project phases, participating in marketing, client and owner presentations as required.

Qualifications
Preferred candidates will have:
  • Bachelor's degree in architecture; Master's degree preferred
  • Licensed architect in California
  • Division of the State Architect (DSA) and Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) Experience preferred
  • LEED accreditation preferred
  • 5-7 years of experience working on small- to large-scale project types
  • Strong graphic skills
  • Revit knowledge and experience required
  • Knowledge of AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp and other industry accepted software as well as expertise with project management software and Microsoft Office Suite products is needed

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