Managing Principal: Equity Leader & Growth Architect

HMC Architects; San Jose (CA); Hybrid; USD 197,000 - 304,000; Full time

Job summary

HMC Architects in San Jose, CA seeks a Managing Principal to lead a business unit, drive financial performance, and oversee projects from pursuit to completion within a design-focused firm.

This senior role requires 3 days in the office and the ability to work from home Mondays and Fridays; Fridays are half days. The position demands 15+ years in architecture, licensure preferred, and a proven ability to win work, manage teams, and guide design across healthcare, education, and civic sectors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or equivalent required.
• Architectural license strongly preferred.
• Minimum 15+ years of experience in architectural practice, including project and team leadership.
• Proven track record managing complex projects, teams, and client relationships.
• Strong business development experience with demonstrated ability to win work and grow markets.
• Expertise in project financials, including budgets, contracts, and fee management.
• Advanced leadership, communication, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to lead multiple teams and projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong understanding of design, technical coordination, and construction processes across all phases.
• Experience working with clients, consultants, and regulatory agencies.
• Ability to mentor staff and build high-performing teams.
• Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools (e.g., BIM/Revit, project management systems).
• Ability to travel as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead business unit performance including profitability, staffing, and operational efficiency.
• Drive business development, including client relationships, proposals, interviews, and market growth.
• Serve as primary client contact and oversee projects from pursuit through completion.
• Direct multiple projects and teams, ensuring delivery aligns with scope, schedule, budget, and quality expectations.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop staff; oversee hiring, performance management, and team structure.
• Collaborate with internal leaders across design, technical, operations, and business development.
• Manage contracts, fees, budgets, and financial performance; address risks, claims, and project issues.
• Oversee project planning, staffing projections, and work plans.
• Ensure deliverables meet firm standards, client expectations, and code/regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with consultants, agencies, and stakeholders, including approvals and compliance.
• Champion design quality and alignment with firm design goals.
• Represent the firm through networking, public presentations, and industry involvement.
• Maintain a strong backlog aligned with firm strategy and market goals.
• Establish and enforce policies, procedures, and best practices within the business unit.

Skills

Leadership

Business development

Client relationship management

Communication

Decision making

Strategic thinking

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture

Architectural license

Tools

BIM/Revit

Job description

HMC Architects in San Jose, CA seeks a Managing Principal to lead a business unit, drive financial performance, and oversee projects from pursuit to completion within a design-focused firm.

This senior role requires 3 days in the office and the ability to work from home Mondays and Fridays; Fridays are half days. The position demands 15+ years in architecture, licensure preferred, and a proven ability to win work, manage teams, and guide design across healthcare, education, and civic sectors.