Architectural Project Lead

MVE + Partners, Inc.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

MVE + Partners, Inc. is seeking a Project Lead to oversee, coordinate, and produce complete construction document sets for multifamily and mixed-use projects in California.

You will lead a production team, enforce rigorous standards, and partner with PMs and Principals to ensure architectural excellence. The role emphasizes ownership of document quality, coordination across disciplines, and a clear path toward a Project Manager role for candidates demonstrating readiness to broaden

Qualifications

• Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• 7-9 years of experience in a professional architecture office with complete document sets.
• California multifamily and mixed-use experience required.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and QC of complete construction document sets across project phases.
• Coordinate drawings with consultants to resolve conflicts before submission.
• Apply CBC, Title 24, ADA, IBC, and BOMA standards to ensure code compliance.
• Mentor production staff and provide technical direction to designers.
• Support permit submittals, RFIs, and shop drawing submittals with PMs.

Skills

Project leadership

Coordination

Communication

Education

Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution

Licensed Architect in California

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Microsoft Office

Job description

Salary:$90,000 - $110,000 Annually

Type:Full-Time

Role Overview

We are seeking a Project Lead to lead the preparation and coordination of complete, accurate, and construction-ready architectural document sets for multifamily residential and mixed-use projects. With 7-9 years of experience, the Project Lead operates with a high degree of independence, taking full ownership of documentation quality and consultant coordination on assigned projects without requiring day-to-day guidance. This role works closely with Project Managers and Principals, provides direct leadership to production team members, and serves as a key technical resource on project teams. The Project Lead is the bridge between production execution and project management and is on the direct path toward a Project Manager role for those who demonstrate the readiness to take on broader project and client responsibilities.

Key Responsibilities

Documentation & Technical

• Own the preparation, review, and quality control of complete construction document sets across all project phases, from design development through permit and construction
• Coordinate architectural drawings with structural, MEP, civil, landscape, and other consultant disciplines, proactively identifying and resolving conflicts before submission
• Apply advanced knowledge of California Building Code (CBC), Title 24, ADA, IBC, and BOMA standards to ensure documents are accurate and code-compliant
• Demonstrate expert-level knowledge of architectural detailing, building systems (lighting, HVAC, structural, plumbing, fire protection, electrical), and construction standards
• Write and review project specifications in coordination with Project Managers; flag legal or technical parameters requiring principal review
• Direct and coordinate production team members on assigned projects, assign tasks, allocate resources, and provide clear technical direction to Job Captains, Designer 1s, and Designer 2s
• Conduct drawing reviews and provide redline feedback to junior staff; ensure deliverables meet firm standards before escalating to Project Manager or Principal review
• Facilitate communication within the project team regarding schedule, drawing status, outstanding coordination items, and technical decisions
• Foster a productive environment for learning and professional growth; serve as a day-to-day technical mentor for production staff

Project Administration & Construction Support

• Manage and coordinate permit submittal packages; prepare responses to plan check corrections independently and track agency approvals through to issuance
• Lead construction administration activities including preparation and review of RFI responses, shop drawing submittals, and change order documentation in coordination with the Project Manager
• Lead or oversee field survey teams for as-built documentation and site verification
• Maintain, organize, and archive project files in accordance with firm standards throughout all project phases
• Occasionally support proposals, charrettes, or presentation preparation as requested by Project Managers or Principals

Qualifications

Required

• Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution
• 7-9 years of experience in a professional architecture office, with demonstrated ownership of complete construction document sets on multifamily residential or mixed-use projects
• Multi-family residential and mixed-use experience required
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD; working knowledge of Microsoft Office
• Comprehensive working knowledge of CBC, ADA, Title 24, and relevant building codes
• Proven ability to lead production team members, manage drawing coordination across disciplines, and deliver construction-ready documents without requiring day-to-day guidance
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to interact professionally with consultants, contractors, and agency reviewers

Preferred

• Licensed Architect in California
• Experience managing permit submittals and responding to plan check corrections across California jurisdictions
• Familiarity with architectural specifications writing (CSI MasterFormat)
• Experience supporting construction administration on projects from permit through closeout
• Broad experience across project scales and phases

What This Role Offers

• Full technical ownership of construction document production and consultant coordination on significant multifamily residential and mixed-use projects across California and the Western U.S.
• A leadership role within the production team, with direct responsibility for guiding and developing junior staff
• A clear and defined path toward Project Manager for those who demonstrate readiness to take on broader project delivery, client relationship, and team oversight responsibilities

MVE + Partners is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. MVE does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices on the basis of: race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by country, regional or local law.