Architect, Public Buildings

Stantec

Vancouver

On-site

CAD 103,300 - 153,300

Full time

14 days+

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Job summary

A global design firm is seeking a Senior Architect to lead federal and defense sector projects. Responsibilities include overseeing project phases, ensuring compliance with federal standards, and managing multidisciplinary teams. Candidates should have a Bachelor's in Architecture, extensive experience in architectural design, and be eligible for security clearance. This role offers a collaborative environment focused on innovative design and practical solutions.

Qualifications

15+ years of architectural experience required.
Eligible for Secret Level Security Clearance.
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

Lead design and technical development for federal projects.
Oversee architectural drawings and compliance.
Guide projects through planning and execution.

Skills

Architectural design

Project management

Risk management

Client engagement

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Licensed Architect (OAA or AIBC)

Job description

Stantec’s Buildings team is on a mission to become the world’s leading integrated design practice. Our architects, engineers, interior designers, consultants, sustainability specialists, and technologists are passionate about the power of design. Our collaborative culture and our innovative, sustainable approach to projects help us create buildings that matter to our world. Together, we are enhancing the quality of life globally through design. Join us and design your place with Stantec.

Your Opportunity

Join a Top 10 global design firm within our growing Architecture Practice. Our team leads complex architectural projects across Healthcare, Transit, Civic, Federal, Industrial, Aviation, and Education sectors — with a particular need for deep expertise in Defence and Security environments. Stantec’s Buildings Practice in Toronto and Vancouver is actively seeking a Senior Architect with extensive experience delivering federal and defence‑sector facilities, including projects for DND, RCMP, PSPC, and other high‑security governmental clients. This role is ideal for a technically strong, detail‑oriented architect who excels in regulated, mission‑critical environments and is experienced in navigating federal design standards, procurement processes, and security protocols. You will lead multidisciplinary teams through all project phases — from planning and concept development to contract documents, construction, and commissioning — ensuring compliance, quality, and alignment with federal client objectives.

Your Key Responsibilities

Architectural Leadership

Lead design and technical development for federal and defence‑sector building projects.
Oversee the production of architectural drawings, specifications, and BIM deliverables.
Ensure compliance with all applicable federal design standards, codes, guidelines, and security requirements.
Provide architectural oversight during construction administration, ensuring design intent and performance criteria are maintained.
Coordinate with engineering disciplines to deliver cohesive, technically rigorous solutions.

Project Delivery

Guide projects through all phases: planning, design, procurement, construction, and close‑out.
Maintain schedules, budgets, quality metrics, and risk controls across multiple workstreams.
Prepare federal submission packages, milestone deliverables, and documentation required by authorities having jurisdiction.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
Act as a key liaison with DND, federal agencies, project authorities, user groups, and security representatives.
Translate federal program requirements and performance standards into architectural solutions.
Lead design presentations, working sessions, and technical reviews with high‑level stakeholders.

Types of Facilities You Will Lead

Defence & Security Infrastructure
Government Administrative Facilities
Justice, Policing, and Public Safety Projects
Specialized, mission‑critical and high‑security environments

Risk & Compliance Management

Identify, track, and mitigate project risks throughout the lifecycle.
Maintain an active Risk Register to document potential issues, impacts, and mitigation plans.
Escalate risks appropriately and ensure all stakeholders are aligned on contingency strategies.

Leadership & Team Development

Foster a culture of innovation, technical excellence, and collaboration.
Mentor emerging architectural staff and support professional growth.
Manage studio resources, workflows, and quality assurance procedures.

Your Capabilities and Credentials

Significant portfolio of federal and DND facility projects, including secure environments.
Strong understanding of federal procurement, PSPC standards, and Treasury Board design requirements.
Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams on complex, phased, or highly technical projects.
Eligible for Secret Level Security Clearance or higher (or active clearance preferred).
Exceptional communication skills, with a client‑focused and solution‑driven mindset.
Strong presentation, documentation, and leadership capabilities.
Ability to balance competing priorities across concurrent projects.

Education and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture; Master’s considered an asset.

Licensed Architect (OAA or AIBC) with 15+ years of architectural experience.

Typical office environment working with computers and remaining sedentary for long periods of time. Field work may require travel and include exposure to the elements including inclement weather.

About Stantec

Stantec is a global leader in sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting. The diverse perspectives of our partners and interested parties drive us to think beyond what’s previously been done on critical issues like climate change, digital transformation, and future‑proofing our cities and infrastructure. We innovate at the intersection of community, creativity, and client relationships to advance communities everywhere, so that together we can redefine what’s possible.

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