Associate- Civic

Lionakis; Irvine (CA); Hybrid; USD 137,000 - 169,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work flexibility

401(k) with match

Health/dental/vision coverage

Generous PTO

DOE-based compensation

Job summary

Lionakis is seeking an Associate for its Civic team in Irvine to lead projects in justice, government, and public sector spaces. You will oversee teams, manage budgets, and contribute to client development. A California-licensed architect with 7+ years of relevant experience is preferred, along with strong leadership and communication skills.

The role offers hybrid work flexibility; competitive benefits include PTO, 401(k) with match, and health/dental/vision coverage. DOE level applies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture (or equivalent) and 10+ years of architectural experience.
• Licensure: California Licensed Architect.
• Experience with justice, government, or public-sector projects a plus.
• Strong collaboration, leadership, communication and relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead project teams to deliver on time and within budget.
• Direct and mentor project staff; oversee performance and development.
• Manage project financials, work plans, and monthly financial tasks.
• Develop proposals with Principal-In-Charge and contribute to interviews and pitches.
• Assist in contract negotiations related to project teams and fee development.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Relationship building

Architecture

Education

Bachelor's degree in architecture

Tools

BIM/Revit

CAD

Bluebeam

Microsoft Office

Job description

Do you thrive in an imaginative and inventive environment? Are you someone who flourishes when part of a cohesive team where collaboration and ideas flow freely? Want to work for a firm that is taking concrete actions toward Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion? Do you have a passion for shaping the future of civic environments? We’re looking for an Associate to join our Civic team working on various projects within justice, government and other public sector project types in our Irvine office.

The Associate is responsible for overseeing management activities within the market and requires strong supervisory skills, as well as continued outstanding performance and technical expertise.

As an Associate you will have these essential functions: Project Leadership and Management

• Prepare project management plans and direct project teams for completion of all project tasks consistent with project management plans and ensures the completion of projects within established timelines and budgets.
• Supervise project teams to address and find solutions for project-related challenges.
• Supervise the financial management of projects including the development and adherence to work plans, monitoring project financial status, developing mitigation plans when required, and managing monthly project financial tasks.
• Assist project team and market/studio leadership with other duties that may be assigned.
  Staff Management and Development
• Direct and mentor less experienced staff and provide input to human resource issues such as staff performance reviews and conflict resolution.
• Delegate tasks to staff as well as coaching and supporting staff’s professional development.
• Participate in market/studio project manager meetings and staffing processes.
  Business Development and Strategic Involvement
• Expand the firm’s client base, secure projects, and builds relationships with stakeholders.
• Develop proposals with the assistance of the Principal-In-Charge and/or Studio Leader.
• Contribute to interviews, presentations and pitches for new or repeat work.
• Assist in or conducts contract negotiations related to project teams and fee development.

The Must-Haves:

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture (or equivalent) and a minimum of 10 years of architectural experience.
• California Licensed Architect
• 7+ years of experience within justice, government and/or other public sector project types
• Strong collaboration, leadership, communication and relationship building skills
• Demonstrated technical ability with BIM/Revit, CAD, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office
• A genuine interest in both design and technical excellence
  The Like to Haves:
• LEED, CASP accreditation(s)

Why You’ll Love Lionakis…

At Lionakis, people and design come first. You’ll find:

• A collaborative, design-forward culture that values creativity, mentorship, and shared success.
• The chance to shape stories that impact real communities.
• Hybrid work flexibility, every-other-Friday off options, and a comprehensive benefits package (bonus plan, 401(k) with match, health/dental/vision, generous PTO).
• A workplace deeply committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion – in our projects, our people, and our culture.

Salary Range:

$137,400- $169,100 annually. Compensation and level DOE.

Studies have shown that underrepresented individuals like women; LGBTQIA+; and BIPOC, among others, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every single one of the qualifications in a job description or posting. Because we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization, we understand the best candidate may come from a non-traditional background to our field of work. Diversity makes us better.