Job Captain, Senior Designer

MCG Architecture, Inc.; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

MCG Architecture, Inc. in Irvine, CA is seeking a Job Captain/Senior Designer to lead design development and construction documents for commercial, retail, and mixed-use projects on-site.

The role requires coordinating with managers, consultants, and clients to ensure design intent is accurately translated into detailed drawings and specs. You will mentor junior staff, manage multiple deadlines, and contribute to design reviews while ensuring code compliance and project quality throughout all

Qualifications

• Strong architectural design skills for commercial and retail projects.
• Proficiency in architectural production tools (Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) and BIM workflows.
• Solid understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, ADA requirements, and detailing from schematic design to construction documents.
• Experience coordinating with consultants, contractors, and project stakeholders, including managing redlines and document accuracy.
• Ability to lead project teams, mentor professionals, and manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced studio.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities with client service focus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of architectural design and construction documents for commercial, retail, and mixed-use projects.
• Coordinate with project managers, consultants, and clients to maintain design integrity.
• Mentor junior team members and manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced studio.
• Ensure design intent is translated into detailed drawings and specifications.
• Support code compliance and permitting processes throughout project phases.
• Participate in design reviews and maintain project schedules and quality standards.

Skills

Architectural design

Space planning

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

BIM workflows

Building codes

Zoning regulations

ADA requirements

Documentation quality

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

Company Description

MCG Architecture is a long-established architecture firm dedicated to exploring thoughtful design solutions across retail, hospitality, commercial, entertainment, and urban revitalization projects. With over 90 years of practice and a nationwide team of architects, designers, and planners, MCG combines innovative design, advanced technology, and personalized service. The firm’s diverse office locations and licensure in 49 states enable close collaboration with clients and projects throughout the United States and Canada. Each year, MCG designs hundreds of commercial developments, working closely with clients to anticipate trends, apply proven approaches, and deliver high-quality design and professional services. Project teams draw on specialized resources throughout the firm, providing cohesive expertise from pre-development through final occupancy.

Role Description

The Job Captain, Senior Designer will lead and coordinate the development of architectural design and construction documents for a variety of commercial, retail, and mixed-use projects. This full-time, on-site role in Irvine, CA involves managing day-to-day project workflows, guiding junior team members, and ensuring that design intent is accurately translated into detailed drawings and specifications. The position includes collaborating closely with project managers, consultants, and clients, overseeing technical documentation, and supporting code compliance and permitting processes. The Senior Designer will participate in design reviews, maintain project schedules and quality standards, and assist in resolving design and construction issues during all phases of a project. Regular coordination with internal disciplines and external partners is required to deliver cohesive, well-detailed projects from concept through completion.

Qualifications

• Strong architectural design skills, including concept development and space planning for commercial and retail projects.
• Proficiency in architectural production tools (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite) and familiarity with BIM workflows.
• Solid understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, ADA requirements, and technical detailing from schematic design through construction documents.
• Experience coordinating with consultants, contractors, and project stakeholders, including managing redlines and ensuring document accuracy.
• Ability to lead project teams, mentor emerging professionals, and manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced studio environment.
• Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving abilities, with a focus on collaboration and client service.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or a related field; licensure or progress toward licensure is preferred.
• Previous experience as a Job Captain or Senior Designer on commercial, retail, or mixed-use projects is highly beneficial.