Design Principal, Architecture & Interiors – DC Leader

Mckissack & Mckissack; Washington, Northern (District of Columbia, KY); Hybrid; USD 185,000 - 225,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Vision Insurance

FSA

HSA

Tuition Assistance

Adoption Assistance

Matching 401k Plan

Paid Time Off

Life Insurance

Disability Insurance

Job summary

McKissack & McKissack in Washington, DC is seeking a Design Principal to lead architecture and interiors. You will shape design direction, translate client vision into solutions, and mentor design teams from concept through execution.

This is a senior role requiring a Registered Architect with a strong portfolio, client trust, and proven ability to manage complex projects across corporate real estate, cultural facilities, and institutional work.

Qualifications

• Registered Architect in good standing
• 20 or more years of professional architectural experience
• Recognized design leader with a strong portfolio of built work
• Proven ability to lead conceptual design and early project vision
• Strong freehand or digital sketching ability
• Experience working directly with clients in public and private sector environments
• Ability to inspire, guide, and elevate design teams
• Strong communication and presentation skills

Responsibilities

• Lead design vision from early concept through design development
• Create high level conceptual sketches and narratives that translate client goals into clear architectural ideas
• Serve as the primary design voice in client meetings, interviews, and presentations
• Set the overall design direction and guide teams through refinement and execution
• Partner directly with clients to understand mission, culture, and functional needs
• Build trust with senior stakeholders through strong listening, clarity of thought, and design confidence
• Act as a creative advisor who helps clients make informed design decisions
• Work closely with architects, interior designers, and technical staff to develop concepts into coordinated design solutions
• Provide design guidance and mentorship to project teams throughout the design process
• Collaborate with outside design partners and specialty consultants as needed
• Lead design across corporate real estate, cultural facilities, and institutional projects

Skills

Lead design vision

Client engagement

Presentation skills

Mentor teams

Job description

McKissack & McKissack in Washington, DC is seeking a Design Principal to lead architecture and interiors. You will shape design direction, translate client vision into solutions, and mentor design teams from concept through execution.

This is a senior role requiring a Registered Architect with a strong portfolio, client trust, and proven ability to manage complex projects across corporate real estate, cultural facilities, and institutional work.