Lead Architect

Connolly Brothers Inc.; Beverly (MA); On-site; USD 124,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

A premier design-build firm in Massachusetts is seeking a Lead Architect to guide design processes for complex projects in a collaborative environment. This role emphasizes strong communication skills, architectural expertise, and a deep knowledge of building codes. Ideal candidates should possess a solid design background and be on track for licensure in Massachusetts. With over 10 years of experience, this individual will lead client engagement while ensuring design integrity throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of architectural design experience preferably in design-build environments.
• Strong design sensibility with client-facing presentation ability.
• Understanding of Massachusetts building codes and residential construction.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary architectural contact for clients and lead design conversations.
• Guide projects from conceptual design through construction documentation.
• Collaborate with architectural team, construction pros, and engineering partners.

Skills

Licensed Architect preferred

Architectural design experience

Proficiency in REVIT

Communication skills

Understanding of building codes

Client-centered approach

Education

On track for licensure in Massachusetts

Master's degree not required

Tools

REVIT

Job description

• Reports to: Vice President of Construction and Design
• Salary Range: $124,000 – $140,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

About Connolly Brothers

Connolly Brothers is a premier, family-owned design-build firm serving the Greater Boston area for more than 30 years. Known for its craftsmanship, integrity, and collaborative approach, the firm specializes in commercial, industrial, and institutional type projects.

With architecture and construction integrated under one roof, Connolly Brothers delivers a seamless client experience from concept through completion. The firm has built its reputation on thoughtful design, technical excellence, and long-standing client relationships rooted in trust and performance.

Role Overview

Connolly Brothers is seeking a design-driven Lead Architect to serve as a key architectural voice within its integrated design-build practice. Reporting to the Vice President of Construction and Design, this individual will play a highly visible, client-facing role focused on leading the design vision for complex commercial, industrial, and institutional-type projects.

This is not a people-management position. The architectural team currently consists of 4.5 FTEs, and this role will collaborate closely with that team while concentrating primarily on design leadership, client engagement, and project execution.

The Lead Architect will act as a trusted advisor to clients—guiding them through the design process, translating ideas into inspired architectural solutions, and ensuring alignment between aesthetic vision, budget, and constructability. This role is ideal for an architect who thrives in a collaborative design-build environment and enjoys balancing creativity with technical rigor.

The position requires full-time, in-office presence in the Greater Boston area, along with site visits within approximately one hour of the office.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary architectural point of contact for clients, leading design conversations and building trusted relationships
• Guide projects from conceptual design through construction documentation and construction administration
• Develop compelling, thoughtful residential designs aligned with client goals and project parameters
• Collaborate closely with the internal architectural team, construction professionals, and engineering partners
• Ensure compliance with Massachusetts building codes, zoning regulations, and industry standards
• Review and contribute to construction documents to maintain design integrity and technical accuracy
• Partner with construction teams to resolve design, budget, and field challenges proactively
• Oversee REVIT-based workflows to ensure design continuity and integration across projects (this is not a drafting-only role)
• Conduct site visits to confirm alignment with architectural intent and address real-time conditions

Qualifications

• Licensed Architect strongly preferred; candidates must be on track for licensure in the State of Massachusetts
• Minimum of 10 years of architectural design experience, ideally within design-build environments
• Master’s degree not required
• Strong design sensibility with the ability to lead client-facing presentations and discussions
• Deep understanding of building codes, residential construction methods, and permitting processes in Massachusetts
• High proficiency in REVIT and strong technical fluency in architectural systems
• Exceptional communication skills with a consultative, client-centered approach
• Ability to balance creativity with practicality in a collaborative, fast-paced environment

Invitation to Apply

The Source and Recruit Company has been retained to assist Connolly Brothers in the recruitment of this position. All inquiries and applications will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.

Talented architects who are passionate about residential design, client engagement, and collaborative project delivery are encouraged to apply. We look forward to the prospect of you joining the team.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Connolly Brothers and The Source and Recruit Company are equal opportunity employers. Both organizations are committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.