Principal Architect - Civil + Federal Sector

West End Workforce; Toronto; On-site; CAD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architecture firm in Toronto is seeking a Principal Architect to oversee major municipal projects and drive business development initiatives. This role requires an experienced Licensed Architect with a proven track record in securing large-scale public commissions and leading project teams effectively. Ideal candidates will have extensive experience in managing civic buildings and engaging community stakeholders. The position offers a competitive salary range between CA$90,000.00 and CA$110,000.00 per year.

Qualifications

• 15+ years post-licensure experience.
• Experience delivering at least 3 major civic buildings.
• Proven ability to secure large-scale public projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead pursuits for municipal projects.
• Oversee large civic buildings from pre-design to construction.
• Mentor senior and intermediate architects.

Skills

Leadership

Business Development

Project Management

Community Engagement

Public Project Acquisition

Education

Licensed Architect (OAA)

Job description

Overview

West End Workforce is seeking a visionary Principal Architect to lead large-scale municipal work across the Greater Toronto Area. This is a leadership role focused on two key outcomes: winning major civic commissions and delivering them with excellence.

You’ll drive high-impact projects from RFP to ribbon-cutting — working with city stakeholders, guiding interdisciplinary teams, and shaping the future of public spaces in Ontario.

Responsibilities

Business Development (50-60%)

• Lead pursuits for municipal projects (RFPs, sole-sourced, unsolicited)
• Represent the firm at interviews, panels, and industry events
• Build proposals and assemble consultant teams
• Strengthen long-term relationships with city staff and community reps
• Drive planning, strategy, and hiring for the civic studio
• Collaborate on cross-border pursuits in Canada and the U.S.

Project Delivery (30%)

• Oversee 3–5 large civic builds ($20M–$100M+)
• Lead strategy for procurement, design, approvals, and funding
• Manage delivery from pre-design to construction
• Ensure compliance with municipal and funding agency requirements
• Mentor senior and intermediate architects
• Identify hiring gaps and support recruiting efforts
• Contribute to resourcing and team planning
• Foster a studio culture grounded in delivery, clarity, and accountability

Qualifications

• Licensed Architect (OAA) with 15+ years post-licensure
• Experience delivering at least 3 major civic buildings (design through closeout)
• Proven ability to secure large-scale public projects in Ontario
• Leadership of project teams on $20M–$100M+ civic developments
• Familiarity with Ontario procurement models: CM, P3, IPD, DBB
• Knowledge of municipal processes, public engagement, and funding cycles
• Active in professional associations (OAA, RAIC, ULI, etc.)
• Eligible for government security clearance (if applicable)

Recent Work by the Team

• 62M Community Centre
• New City Hall

Seniority level

Not Applicable

Employment type

Full-time

Job function

Design, Business Development, and Consulting

Industries

• Data Infrastructure and Analytics

Salary: CA$90,000.00–CA$110,000.00 per year