SENIOR PROJECT ARCHITECT / PROJECT MANAGER

Royal Architectural Institute of Canada; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 115,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading national architecture firm in Ottawa seeks a Senior Project Architect / Project Manager to oversee complex public-sector projects. The role involves project delivery, contract management, and team coordination. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in managing large-scale institutional projects, effective communication skills, and relevant licensure. The position offers a competitive salary and opportunities for career advancement within a collaborative culture.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

Career advancement opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience in project management and contract administration.
• Proven experience with large-scale institutional and government projects.
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead project delivery and ensure adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Manage contract administration and site reviews.
• Serve as the primary client contact.

Skills

Project management

Contract administration

Communication

Leadership

Organization

Team coordination

Building codes

Sustainability principles

Education

Professional degree in Architecture; OAA licensure

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Project management software

Job description

SENIOR PROJECT ARCHITECT / PROJECT MANAGER

Organization: DMC RECRUITMENT GROUP

Job Description:

Ottawa, ON
Compensation: $115,000 – $145,000

ABOUT OUR CLIENT
Our client is a nationally respected architecture and design practice with a long-standing reputation for delivering high-performing, purpose-driven environments across Canada. With deep expertise in public, civic, and institutional projects, their Ottawa studio is seeking a Senior Project Architect / Project Manager to lead complex projects from design development through construction — ensuring design integrity, technical excellence, and seamless project delivery.

ABOUT THE ROLE

As a Senior Project Architect / Project Manager, you will oversee the full project lifecycle, focusing on the coordination, documentation, and administration of large-scale government and institutional projects. You’ll act as a key liaison between clients, consultants, and construction teams — ensuring that every project meets the highest standards of quality, compliance, and performance. This role is ideal for a technically adept architect who thrives in a leadership position and excels at turning vision into built reality.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead project delivery from detailed design through to construction and close-out, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, and budget.
• Manage all aspects of contract administration, including RFIs, change orders, submittals, and site reviews.
• Serve as the primary client contact, maintaining strong relationships and clear communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Coordinate and oversee the work of internal teams, consultants, and external partners.
• Ensure design and technical standards meet regulatory requirements and best practices for government and institutional facilities.
• Review and manage construction documents to ensure accuracy, consistency, and buildability.
• Participate in quality assurance reviews, risk management, and project reporting.
• Mentor and support junior architects and technologists, fostering professional development and knowledge sharing.
• Contribute to proposal writing, fee estimates, and business development initiatives where appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Professional degree in Architecture; OAA licensure (or eligibility) required.
• 10+ years of relevant experience, with a strong focus on project management and contract administration.
• Proven experience leading large-scale institutional and government projects (e.g., civic, justice, education, or public infrastructure).
• Comprehensive understanding of project delivery methods, construction processes, and contract documentation (e.g., CCDC, RAIC).
• Exceptional organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, and project management software.
• Strong understanding of building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainability principles.
• Security clearance or eligibility for government projects is an asset.

WHY JOIN?

Opportunity to lead impactful, high-profile public projects that shape communities across Canada.
Join a respected firm with a collaborative, inclusive culture rooted in mentorship and professional excellence.
Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.
Clear pathways for career advancement and leadership opportunities within a growing national practice.

If you’re an experienced architect who thrives on complex public-sector projects and values precision, collaboration, and purpose-driven design, we’d love to hear from you. All applications will be reviewed, and we encourage colleagues and industry partners to share this opportunity within their networks.