Project Design Manager / Architect

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.

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

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

• 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).

• 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

• 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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