Project Design Manager / Architect

Intelligent City Inc; Vancouver; Hybrid; CAD 95,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company as a Project Design Manager, where you'll lead innovative housing projects that prioritize sustainability and efficiency. This role involves collaborating with architects and engineers to refine designs and ensure project viability. You'll drive the design process from feasibility studies to execution while optimizing project efficiency. Be part of a team that is pioneering sustainable urban development and crafting homes that are both efficient and environmentally friendly. If you are passionate about making a positive impact in the construction industry, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Flexible work hours

Health benefits

Professional development opportunities

Collaborative work environment

Sustainability initiatives

Qualifications

• 5-7+ years in architectural design and construction management.
• Strong design skills and expertise in marketability and execution.
• In-depth knowledge of BC Building Code and regulatory requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead project design from analysis to execution, ensuring client alignment.
• Conduct feasibility assessments and coordinate with project teams.
• Promote sustainability and integrate green building principles.

Skills

Architectural Design

Construction Management

BIM Modelling (Revit, AutoCAD)

Analytical Skills

Cross-functional Collaboration

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Master’s Degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Grasshopper

Rhino

Dynamo

Job description

At Intelligent City, we empower people to live better, by building smarter and addressing the urgent need for sustainable urban housing. We don’t just think about change—we make it happen. Our mission is to accelerate the supply of sustainable urban housing by leveraging renewable resources and industrialized manufacturing.

Build Smarter. Live Better. Think Change. If this resonates with you, we encourage you to apply to join our team and help us build a better world!

The Project Design Manager leads the design and planning of housing projects at Intelligent City, ranging from feasibility studies to design efficiency and execution, ensuring alignment with Intelligent City’s building platform and business objectives. This role involves collaborating with external architects, engineers, and consultants to refine designs, enhance marketability, and implement cost-effective and product-aligned solutions. Responsible for leading projects from early client interactions to project planning and execution, the Project Design Manager plays a critical role in the development of the company’s product platform and project portfolio, its standards and variability, as well as optimizing project execution and efficiency.

Open Positions: 1 open position

Location: At one of our locations, with the option to work at home some days of the week. Must be willing to work/visit our Delta, BC manufacturing facility on occasion to gain a deeper understanding of our core business.

Work Hours: Monday to Friday

We are accepting applications from within the lower mainland, BC, only.

The Role & Responsibilities - (Project Design Manager):

• Lead the full lifecycle of project design—from early analysis through planning, engineering, and execution—serving as the primary liaison between clients, consultants, and internal teams.
• Define project scope, timelines, and responsibilities across disciplines to ensure effective execution and on-time delivery.
• Facilitate weekly coordination meetings to proactively resolve design and execution issues, maintaining momentum throughout all project phases.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, consultants, and CM/GC teams to ensure alignment between design intent, constructability, and budget.
• Conduct feasibility assessments, yield analyses, and risk evaluations to support project viability and executive decision-making.
• Lead preconstruction efforts, reviewing constructability, technical feasibility, and alignment with development goals.
• Represent the company in meetings with city officials and regulatory agencies, interpreting zoning bylaws and municipal requirements to support permitting and entitlement processes.
• Design Optimization & Innovation
• Utilize BIM and other digital tools to improve design efficiency, optimize structural layouts, and reduce material waste.
• Implement scalable, cost-effective design solutions aligned with modular construction, prefabrication, and industrialized building methods.
• Review and approve shop drawings and specifications to ensure alignment with design intent, code requirements, and manufacturability standards.
• Contribute to the ongoing evolution of the company’s product platform and internal design guidelines to ensure consistency, innovation, and technical excellence.
• Continuously refine standards and share best practices to drive practical, creative solutions across projects.
• Ensure all projects designs meet all safety, legal, and regulatory requirements, minimizing risk and maintaining compliance throughout project phases.
• Promote sustainability and integrate green building principles into design and development processes.
• Mentor junior team members by offering technical guidance and supporting professional development.
• Support onboarding of new team members to ensure alignment with tools, processes, and performance expectations.
• Foster a collaborative, forward-thinking team culture through active knowledge sharing and leadership.
• Stay current with AEC industry trends, innovations, and best practices by engaging in events, conferences, and professional networks.
• Pursue continuous learning through training, certifications, and self-directed study to enhance leadership and technical expertise.

Education & Qualifications, Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Construction Management, Engineering, or a related field

Nice to Haves:

• Master’s Degree in Architecture
• Architect with AIBC or eligibility to become registered
• LEED AP
• Passive House Certified

Skills & Experience, Required:

• 5 – 7+ years of experience in architectural design, construction management, or industrialized construction.
• Strong design skills with expertise in design development and clear presentation of ideas.
• Strong cross-functional collaboration to align design feasibility, marketability, and technical execution.
• Analytical skills to assess site conditions, guide design development, and ensure constructability.
• In-depth knowledge of the BC Building Code and regulatory requirements.
• Proven ability to identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining quality, performance, and compliance.
• Experience navigating municipal regulations, zoning requirements, and permitting processes.
• Leadership experience in managing small project teams, mentoring junior staff, and fostering knowledge-sharing.
• Proficiency in BIM modelling (Revit, AutoCAD) and parametric design software (Grasshopper, Rhino, Dynamo).

Considered an asset:

• Experience with cost estimation, scheduling, and procurement strategies.
• Experience constructing parametric models for design decision-making and data visualization.
• Familiarity with prefabrication, modular construction, and integrated construction techniques

Important to Mention!

• Must provide your own CSA approved 6” safety footwear, required.
• Ability to provide proof of the right to work for the Company in Canada.
• Successful candidates may be required to submit to a background check
• Willingness to work between our office and manufacturing facilities.

$95,000 - $115,000 a year

For this role, the estimated base salary range is $95,000 to $115,000.

The actual base salary will vary based on various factors, including market and individual qualifications objectively assessed during the interview process. The listed range above is a guideline, and the base salary range for this role may be modified. Benefits offered after 3 months.

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Who We Are:

Innovation starts with our people. We are a team of builders, creators, and problem-solvers with a shared commitment to quality and sustainability. Together our team of skilled carpenters, engineers, designers, and other professionals push the boundaries of what's possible—crafting homes that are faster to build, more efficient, and greener for the future.

What We Do:

Founded in 2008 by visionary entrepreneurs Oliver Lang and Cindy Wilson, Intelligent City is pioneering the future of sustainable urban development.

We lead the industry in mixed-use urban housing, integrating green building strategies, digital design, advanced manufacturing, and robotics in timber construction. Our approach not only makes housing more accessible and rapidly deployable but also fosters socially resilient communities. As a sustainable alternative to high-emission concrete construction, we provide a direct pathway to life cycle carbon neutrality.

Tested, certified, and market-ready for mid-rise to high-rise applications up to 18 storeys, Intelligent City has developed industry-first products and technologies, setting a new benchmark for urban development. Our multi-disciplinary team creates cutting-edge solutions that are sustainable, efficient, and built to last.

Recognition & Investment:

We are widely recognized for our leadership in climate tech and construction innovation. Our work is supported by Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), Breakthrough Energy Solutions Canada (BESC), and the Solar Impulse Foundation. We were awarded Scaling Venture of the Year at Foresight Canada’s 2024 awards. Our investors include BDC, Greensoil Proptech Ventures, UIT, and Fulmer, among others.