Project Architect / Job Captain

HLW International; West Palm Beach (FL); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Job summary

HLW in West Palm Beach, FL is seeking an experienced Project Architect/Job Captain to lead and coordinate projects from concept through completion in a hybrid work environment. You will balance creative design with technical leadership, manage schedules and budgets, mentor teams, and maintain strong client relationships across a range of architectural and interior projects.

Requirements include a Degree in Architecture, US Registered Architect status (or in progress), 8–15 years of experience,

Job description

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Project Architect / Job Captain

Full Time West Palm Beach, FL, US

HLW is built on the belief that exceptional design begins with exceptional people. With a 140-year legacy as a global, award‑winning architecture and design firm, we collaborate with leading clients to shape meaningful, future‑focused environments. Our culture is collaborative, inclusive, and growth‑minded, offering hybrid work flexibility, competitive compensation, and comprehensive benefits. When you join HLW, you become part of a global community that values innovation, mentorship, and long‑term professional growth.

For more information about our culture, we invite you to visit us as www.hlw.com

As part of our expanding Florida office, there are endless opportunities for growth and future leadership within the larger HLW organization while having the opportunity to work on a range of exciting architectural and interior projects.

We are seeking an experienced and well‑rounded Project Architect/Job Captain to lead and coordinate projects from concept through completion. This hybrid role combines strong design and technical expertise with the leadership and organizational skills required to manage complex projects, teams, and client relationships. The ideal candidate will balance creative vision with disciplined project management—ensuring design excellence, technical accuracy, schedule and budget compliance, and overall client satisfaction.

You will represent HLW in a professional and ethical manner, championing the firm’s design values, project delivery standards, and collaborative culture.

Job Responsibilities:

Project Planning & Client Management

• Lead project delivery from concept through construction, ensuring design quality, schedule adherence, and budget control.
• Develop project scopes, staffing plans, schedules, and fee proposals in coordination with leadership.
• Serve as the primary client contact, managing expectations, communications, and contracts.
• Strengthen and maintain long‑term client relationships, supporting business development and repeat opportunities.
• Support RFP and proposal efforts through strategic input and project‑specific expertise.

Design & Technical Leadership

• Oversee the coordination of design and technical documentation across all phases.
• Ensure design intent is clearly communicated and executed in construction documents and field conditions.
• Develop and review details, specifications, and quality‑control documents to maintain consistency with HLW standards.
• Integrate consultant coordination, code compliance, and accessibility into design solutions.
• Partner with the Technical Director to conduct project reviews and support technical excellence.

Team Management & Coordination

• Lead and mentor project teams, balancing workload, staffing, and professional growth.
• Coordinate project schedules, deliverables, and interdisciplinary workflows to maintain project efficiency.
• Facilitate collaboration across design, technical, and interiors teams to achieve unified outcomes.
• Promote clear communication and documentation across all project stakeholders.

Financial Management

• Manage project budgets, forecasts, and profitability in coordination with the Studio Director and Finance Team.
• Monitor resource allocation to align with project scope, fees, and performance goals.
• Review consultant proposals, contracts, and invoices for accuracy and compliance.
• Maintain timely reporting, billing, and timesheet management to ensure fiscal accountability.

Construction Administration

• Oversee construction administration, including review of RFIs, submittals, and change requests.
• Conduct regular site visits to evaluate progress, quality, and compliance with contract documents.
• Coordinate with contractors and consultants to address field conditions and resolve technical issues.
• Manage closeout procedures, punch lists, and project turnover documentation.

Role Qualifications:

Education & Certification:

• Degree in architecture or a related field.
• US Registered Architect (required or actively pursuing)
• 8–15 years of professional experience in architecture and project management.
• LEED accreditation (preferred).

Technical Skills & Knowledge:

• Proficiency in architectural design software, including Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Suite. Proficiency in Project Management software including Deltek, Microsoft Project, OneNote, Excel, SharePoint, Microsoft Teams and Newforma.
• Strong understanding of local building codes, permitting, and construction processes.
• Experience collaborating with consultants, engineers, and contractors.
• Familiarity with contractual and regulatory requirements related to architectural practice.

Leadership & Management:

• Demonstrated success managing projects and teams across multiple scales and delivery methods.
• Proven ability to mentor and develop staff in both design and technical capacities.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, track progress, and drive accountability.

Financial & Business Development:

• Experience managing budgets, forecasting, and financial performance.
• Understanding of business development principles and a willingness to contribute to the firm’s growth initiatives.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a collaborative and proactive approach to expanding HLW’s presence in the Florida market.

Why Join Us? We offer:

• A collaborative, hybrid work environment (3 days onsite).
• A diverse, creative studio culture grounded in technical rigor and design excellence.
• Opportunities for professional growth, mentorship, and advancement.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.

HLW is committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of our team members. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, paid time off, flexible spending accounts, an employee assistance plan, parental leave, financial assistance toward professional licensing and reimbursement for certification exam fees, 401(k), and commuter benefits.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, or disability status.