Project Architect

Pavago; California (MO); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Pavago is seeking a Project Architect to lead production and coordination of architectural drawing sets for custom homes and renovations. You will take projects from schematic design through permit-ready documents, ensuring accuracy, coordination, and compliance with California codes and Title 24.

You will collaborate with the design team to translate client goals into buildable designs, maintain detailed documentation, and create compelling visuals for client reviews.

Qualifications

• Experience producing complete architectural drawing sets for custom residential homes and renovations.
• Strong knowledge of California building codes and local jurisdiction requirements.
• Hands-on experience with California Title 24 energy compliance requirements.
• Proficiency with architectural drafting and 3D modeling software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Chief Architect, or comparable residential design tools.
• Experience with interior design documentation including space planning, finish schedules, and material specifications.

Responsibilities

• Develop complete architectural drawing sets for custom homes and renovations.
• Take projects from schematic design through permit-ready construction documents.
• Produce accurate plans for permitting and construction and review drawings for coordination issues.
• Apply California codes and Title 24 energy requirements to submittals and drawings.
• Create 3D models and renderings to communicate design intent and support client presentations.
• Coordinate interior design elements with construction documents and specify finishes.

Skills

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Chief Architect

Residential design tools

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Chief Architect

Job description

Position Type: Full-Time | Remote
Working Hours: U.S. Business Hours

About the Role

We’re looking for a Project Architect to lead the production and coordination of architectural drawing sets for custom homes and residential renovation projects. You’ll take projects from schematic design through permit-ready construction documents, ensuring every detail is accurate, coordinated, and compliant with California building codes and Title 24 requirements.

You’ll work closely with the design team and project stakeholders to translate client goals into practical, buildable designs while maintaining a high standard of technical documentation and visual presentation.

Key Responsibilities

Construction Document Production

• Develop complete architectural drawing sets for custom homes and residential renovation projects.
• Take projects from schematic design through permit-ready construction documents.
• Produce accurate, detailed plans that can be used for permitting and construction.
• Review drawings for coordination issues and resolve conflicts before they reach the field.

California Code Compliance

• Apply California building codes and local jurisdiction requirements to architectural drawings and submittals.
• Incorporate Title 24 energy compliance requirements where applicable.
• Ensure plans and documentation are accurate and prepared for permit submission.
• Stay aware of relevant code requirements and jurisdiction-specific standards.

3D Modeling & Visualization

• Create 3D models and renderings that clearly communicate design intent.
• Prepare visual materials for client presentations and internal design reviews.
• Translate architectural concepts into accurate and polished visual representations.

Interior Design Coordination

• Support interior design decisions including space planning, materials, and finishes.
• Incorporate interior design requirements accurately into construction documents.
• Coordinate finish specifications and material schedules with architectural drawings.

Plan Set Management

• Organize and maintain drawing sets across multiple active projects.
• Track revisions and ensure the latest versions are properly maintained.
• Keep project files structured, organized, and version-controlled.
• Manage multiple project deadlines while maintaining accuracy and quality.

Client & Team Collaboration

• Work closely with the design team and project stakeholders.
• Translate client goals and design direction into practical, buildable documentation.
• Communicate project status, questions, and potential issues proactively.
• Incorporate feedback and redlines accurately into revised drawing sets.

Required Experience & Skills

• Demonstrated experience producing complete architectural drawing sets for custom residential homes and renovation projects.
• Strong working knowledge of California building codes and local jurisdiction requirements.
• Hands-on experience with California Title 24 energy compliance requirements.
• Proficiency in architectural drafting and 3D modeling software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Chief Architect, or comparable residential design tools.
• Experience with interior design documentation, including space planning, finish schedules, and material specifications.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to identify coordination conflicts across drawing sheets.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and drawing sets simultaneously.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet permit submission deadlines.
• Strong written and spoken English communication skills.

Perfect Fit / Culture

• Takes full ownership of drawing sets from start to finish and follows through without constant supervision.
• Flags potential issues early and communicates clearly when requirements are unclear.
• Maintains a high standard of technical accuracy and visual quality across every project.
• Comfortable working across time zones and providing proactive project updates.
• Can receive design direction and accurately translate concepts into detailed technical documentation.
• Works independently while collaborating effectively with remote teams.

Typical Day

You’ll start the day by reviewing feedback and redlines from the design team and prioritizing drawing revisions. Much of your time will be spent developing and refining construction documents for one or more residential projects.

You’ll cross-reference California code requirements as details are developed, coordinate interior design elements into the plan set, update drawings based on feedback, and prepare files or renders for review. Throughout the day, you’ll keep project files organized, document changes clearly, and flag any open questions or potential issues before the next team overlap.

Interview Process

1. AI Screening
2. Client Interview
3. Offer Stage