Contract Administrator

Kaizen Lab Inc.; Calgary; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Resident Contract Administrator to oversee a landmark federal project in Ottawa. This role demands extensive experience in architectural contract administration, strong communication skills, and a deep understanding of construction processes. As the primary liaison among clients, contractors, and internal teams, you will ensure the successful execution of design intent and quality control throughout the construction phase. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to a project that blends heritage and innovation while working in a collaborative and dynamic environment. If you are passionate about architecture and eager to make a significant impact, this position is for you.

Benefits

PATO Days

Competitive Compensation

Extended Health Benefits

Annual Profit Share

Wellness Initiatives

Training & Education Support

Mentorship and Continuous Learning

Professional Membership Reimbursement

Social Events

Fun Work Environment

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in architectural contract administration.
• Proven on-site experience as a Contract Administrator or Site Architect.

Responsibilities

• Oversee construction phase of complex federal projects as on-site representative.
• Lead construction administration, monitor progress, and ensure compliance.

Skills

Architectural Contract Administration

Communication Skills

Construction Methods Knowledge

Organizational Skills

Problem Solving

Education

Degree in Architecture or Architectural Technology

OAA Membership or AATO Accreditation

Tools

Revit

Construction Administration Software (e.g., Newforma, Procore)

Job description

Who We Are

As a leading Canadian architectural practice, Zeidler designs meaningful spaces that contribute to the community and deliver lasting value. With offices in Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver and Victoria, we offer full architectural and interior design services.

At Zeidler Architecture, we deliver excellence through collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to architectural integrity. We are seeking an experienced Resident Contract Administrator to oversee the construction phase of a large, complex federal project located in Ottawa. This position is dedicated entirely to on-site construction administration and coordination for a multi-phase, technically demanding project with heritage and new build scope.

Reporting to the Project Director and in close collaboration with the Design and Technical Teams, the Resident Contract Administrator will act as Zeidler’s on-site representative, ensuring implementation of design intent, quality control, contract compliance, and timely execution of project deliverables during construction.

What We Are Seeking

This is a rare opportunity to be embedded on-site for a landmark project that demands both deep design, technical experience and strong interpersonal skills. You will be the primary architectural liaison between the client, consultants, contractors, and internal teams—playing a critical role in the successful execution of the design intent. Duties include:

1. Serve as Zeidler’s on-site representative throughout the construction phase of a major project.
2. Lead day-to-day construction administration including site reviews, reporting, and interpretation of contract documents.
3. Monitor construction progress, identify issues, and proactively communicate concerns to the project team.
4. Review and process contractor submittals, shop drawings, RFIs, progress billings and change orders in collaboration with the design team.
5. Review of Progress Billing / verification of completed work/ materials on site / review of mock ups as required.
6. Prepare and issue architectural field reports, deficiency lists, and construction logs on a regular basis.
7. Conduct on-site quality control to ensure compliance with drawings, specifications, and performance standards.
8. Facilitate communication between the client, contractor, and design team to support efficient resolution of site issues.
9. Represent Zeidler at site meetings, tracking action items and ensuring follow-through.
10. Support the Project Architect with documentation, contract conformance, and milestone inspections.
11. Assist in the preparation and coordination of supplemental sketches and construction clarifications.
12. Ensure that work aligns with project goals, budgets, timelines, and sustainability objectives.

What You Will Bring

1. 10+ years of experience in architectural contract administration, with a strong track record on complex or institutional projects (P3 experience is an asset).
2. Background in architecture or architectural technology; OAA membership or AATO accreditation is considered an asset.
3. Proven on-site experience as a Contract Administrator or Site Architect for large-scale construction projects.
4. Familiarity or experience with complex design and accelerated construction scheduling activities is beneficial.
5. Familiarity with complex procurement processes is beneficial (i.e. P3 or CCDC 5B).
6. Deep knowledge of construction methods, building codes, and contract delivery methods.
7. Strong organizational and documentation skills, including proficiency with construction administration software (Newforma, Procore, or similar).
8. Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a diplomatic and proactive approach.
9. Working knowledge of Revit is required.
10. Ability to represent the architectural team with professionalism and clarity on-site.
11. Available to be based full-time on-site in Ottawa for the duration of the construction period.

Benefits + Perks

Zeidler believes in a work-life balance and valuing our people with benefits like:

1. PATO Days – enjoy an extra day off on long weekends and holiday closures.
2. Competitive compensation.
3. Benefits include extended health, dental, health and wellness spending allowance, EFAP, etc.
4. Annual profit share.
5. Wellness initiatives.
6. Training & education support.
7. Mentorship and continuous learning.
8. Professional membership reimbursement.
9. Social events.
10. Fun work environment and great firm culture… and so much more.

What to do now

If you are a motivated, creative, and inspired individual who has the ambition to grow and enjoys working in a collaborative, exciting, and fast-paced environment surrounded by challenging opportunities, we would like to hear from you. Please apply here!

Zeidler is committed to equal opportunity for all employees and applicants, and stand by our principles for a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace. Applications from all qualified candidates are welcome and we encourage applications from, but not limited to visible minorities, peoples with disabilities, racialized peoples, Indigenous peoples, and persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities.

Please let us know by email or by telephone at 403-233-2525 if you require any accommodations throughout the interview process. We will make all reasonable efforts to accommodate.