Design Director

Northern Impact; Newport Beach (CA); Hybrid; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A distinguished architectural practice in Newport Beach is seeking a Design Director to lead programming and design for key projects. The role involves setting design guidelines and ensuring project quality, along with business development responsibilities. Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree in Architecture, at least 5 years of design experience, and strong communication skills. This position offers significant professional growth in a supportive environment that values design excellence.

Qualifications

• At least 5 years of experience in design, including hands-on project leadership.
• Proven experience with the design of K-14 school facilities.
• California architectural license strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project budgets and uphold design quality throughout the design phase.
• Partner with the Design Principal to develop design policies and best practices.
• Lead Design Advisory Board meetings and related activities.

Skills

Project leadership

Interpersonal communication

Graphic communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Job description

Overview

Award-Winning 50-person distinguished architectural practice is actively seeking a Design Director to join their growing Newport Beach studio. The firm possesses expertise in programming, planning, design, and management services, primarily catering to Educational Facilities for over three decades. With offices located in Orange County, San Diego, and East Bay, this firm boasts a wealth of professional knowledge, talent, and personalized commitment to their clients. The studios embrace hybrid work arrangements and prioritize the professional development and growth of their designers, architects, and managers.

Position Description

The Director of Design provides vision, leadership, and strategic direction in the programming and design of key projects. This role is responsible for setting and executing long-term design guidelines to ensure projects meet both contract requirements and the firm’s standards of excellence. The Director represents the firm\'s design philosophy in public settings and plays an active role in business development.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project budgets and uphold design quality throughout the design phase of all projects.

• Contribute to firm-wide strategic goal setting.

• Partner with the Design Principal to develop design policies and best practices.

• Collaborate with the Operations Manager to maintain strong interdepartmental processes and standards.

• Support the Marketing Manager and Proposal Team in preparing proposals and designating project teams.

• Participate in client interview presentations.

• Lead Design Advisory Board meetings and related activities.

• Represent the firm at industry conferences such as CASH, CCFC, and AIA.

• Present to school districts, Boards of Education, and the broader community.

• Conduct periodic reviews of all projects to ensure alignment with the firm’s philosophy and quality benchmarks.

• Foster a positive studio culture through close staff engagement, supporting morale and productivity.

• Assume a lead design role for selected projects as needed.

• Provide design support across the firm’s portfolio as required.

• Travel to all offices as necessary.

Skills & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture from an accredited university.

• At least 5 years of experience in design, including hands-on project leadership.

• Proven experience with the design of K-14 school facilities.

• Proficiency in a range of graphic communication methods.

• Exceptional interpersonal, written, and verbal communication skills.

• California architectural license strongly preferred.

This position offers excellent opportunities for professional growth within a supportive, collaborative environment focused on design excellence and innovation

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