Project Architect/Design Manager

Life Care Services-US; Des Moines (IA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Life Care Services-US is seeking a Project Architect (Design Manager) to lead the design of development projects. You will manage the design process, ensuring functionality, aesthetics, and compliance with budgets and goals.

You will coordinate design disciplines, administer design agreements, and ensure codes and standards are met while collaborating with contractors and consultants to deliver cost-effective, high-quality projects for seniors.

Qualifications

• BA/BS in Architecture or construction management.
• Registered Architect or currently in the testing process.
• 4–8 years postgraduate experience on multi-family, healthcare or hospitality projects.
• Minimum 3 years project management experience.
• Knowledge of senior living product lines including CCRC and Assisted Living.
• Detail oriented with ability to partner with architectural firms, interior design firms, and contractors.

Responsibilities

• Directs the design process and coordinates all design disciplines to meet standards and expectations.
• Administers all design agreements, including basic and additional services.
• Supports the design process to ensure compliance with the established design program and codes.
• Performs selection of architectural and other design consultants, including processing billing and payment applications, for approval.
• Negotiates, prepares, and executes the architectural and consultant agreements.
• Acquires knowledge of materials, finishes, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC to meet the project budget and works with contractors for efficient design utilization.

Skills

Detail oriented

Collaboration

Communication

Cost awareness

Education

BA/BS in Architecture or construction management

Registered Architect or in testing

Job description

The Project Architect (Design Manager) is a licensed architect, who will manage LCS Development projects. Ensuring functionality, pleasing design, and compliance. Responsibilities include assisting with design programming, scheduling of the design process, maintaining established budget, and ensuring that the design supports our operational goals and objectives.

Experience is Everything;

At LCS, experience is everything. We provide you the opportunity to use your talents in a progressive, growing organization that makes a positive difference in the lives of the seniors we serve. If you are seeking an organization that gives back, you’ll love working here. Our principles and hospitality promises define our company culture. LCS employees can be found participating in volunteer activities, getting involved in our committees or collaborating with team members in our innovative workspace. You’ll find several opportunities to grow as a professional, serve the community, and enhance the lives of seniors.

The Role:

• Directs the design process and coordinates all design disciplines to ensure scheduling, cost, quality, aesthetics, and design functionality meet established design standards and PDM expectations.
• Administers all design agreements, including basic and additional services.
• Supports the design process to ensure compliance with the established design program, maintaining knowledge of local and state codes, and how they affect the projects design and permitting.
• Performs selection of the architectural and other design consultants, including processing billing and payment applications, for approval by PDM.
• Negotiates, prepares, and executes the architectural and consultant agreements.
• Acquires knowledge of specified materials, finishes, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to allow selection of cost-effective systems that meet the project budget. Work with the contractors to understand how to most efficiently utilize available materials and systems in the design process.

Qualifications:

• BA/BS in Architecture or construction management
• Registered Architect or currently in the testing process
• Minimum 4-8 years postgraduate experience on multi-family, healthcare or hospitality projects is highly regarded.
• Minimum 3 years project management experience is highly regarded.
• Knowledge of senior living products lines including CCRC, and Assisted Living.
• Must be detail oriented, and have the ability to effectively partner with architectural firms, interior design firms, and contractors. Show sensitivity to and concern for the interest and needs of others, working to reduce conflict and establish smooth working relationships.

Culture:

LCS values collaboration, thoughtful problem-solving, and innovation. You will have the opportunity to work alongside cross-functional partners who appreciate strategy, leaders who are invested in your growth, and teammates who care about doing meaningful work.

• High standards with realistic expectations
• Open communication & team collaboration
• A welcoming, inclusive environment where your voice matters

Why Join Us?

• Industry Leader.
• Inclusive & collaborative culture.
• Top Workplace USA.
• Charity and community involvement.

Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and generous paid time off starting on your first day of employment (pro-rated). Our total rewards package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid holidays and paid volunteer time; paid parental leave; bereavement leave; life insurance; short- and long-term disability; HSA and FSA options; supplemental voluntary benefits, and a 401K retirement plan with company match.

Employees are eligible for education reimbursement programs, cell phone reimbursement where applicable, and mileage reimbursement for LCS-approved travel.

Our Commitment

LCS creates living experiences that enhance the lives of seniors. You’ll see this commitment in our people. They’re talented, dedicated professionals who truly care about residents, with each conducting his or her work with integrity, honesty and transparency according to the principles of LCS. We strive to help every community succeed—strengthening available resources, establishing proven practices that lead to long-term growth and value for those living in, working for and affiliated with the community. Check us out on our website: https://www.lcsliving.com

Additional Information

Travel frequency: 26-50%

Annual incentive opportunity: This role is eligible for a company-wide bonus plan based on corporate performance metrics & organizational success.

The actual title & salary will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors.

A POST-OFFER BACKGROUND CHECK, INCLUDING REFERENCES IS REQUIRED.

LCS IS AN EQUAL OPPROTUNITY EMPLOYER.

Job Info

• Job Identification 39983
• Job Category Development
• Posting Date 09/15/2026, 08:04 PM
• Job Schedule Full time
• Locations 400 Locust Street, Des Moines, IA, 50309, US