Project Architect (On-site)

Cuhaci & Peterson Architects; Mount Pleasant (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Cuhaci & Peterson Architects is seeking a licensed Architect to lead the design and delivery of complex projects from concept through construction in a client-facing role. You will mentor teams, ensure code compliance, and manage all design phases with a focus on quality and collaboration.

The ideal candidate brings 10+ years of experience, deep knowledge of building systems and codes, and a track record of leading multidisciplinary teams to successful project outcomes.

Qualifications

• Active Architectural License required.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional architectural experience.
• Thorough understanding of building codes, zoning regulations, life safety requirements, and industry standards.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale projects or multiple concurrent medium-sized projects.
• Strong leadership, communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing project deliverables.
• Proficiency in developing construction documents, specifications, and technical detailing.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural projects through all phases of design and construction.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of conceptual, schematic, and final design drawings.
• Resolve complex design and technical challenges efficiently and effectively.
• Champion sustainable and resilient design practices throughout project development.
• Direct coordination between architectural, structural, MEP, fire protection, and specialty consultants.
• Lead project kickoff meetings and establish coordination protocols.
• Manage permitting processes and responses to jurisdictional review comments.
• Oversee bidding procedures and procurement support activities.
• Support construction administration efforts, including RFIs and submittals.
• Coordinate peer reviews and document quality control efforts.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and public agencies.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Problem solving

Mentorship

Coordination

Construction documents

Building codes

Education

Architectural license

Job description

Description

We are seeking a highly skilled and licensed Architect to lead the design and delivery of complex architectural projects from concept through construction. This role is responsible for overseeing all phases of project development, including design, construction documents, permitting, bidding, and construction administration.

The Architect serves as a technical leader, ensuring design excellence, code compliance, quality control, and successful project execution while mentoring and developing team members.

The ideal candidate combines strong technical expertise, project leadership, and client-facing skills with a passion for design innovation, collaboration, and professional development.

Key Responsibilities

Project Leadership & Design Management

• Lead architectural projects through all phases of design and construction.
• Develop creative, practical, and code-compliant design solutions that align with client objectives.
• Guide project teams in planning, design development, construction documentation, and project execution.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of conceptual, schematic, and final design drawings.
• Resolve complex design and technical challenges efficiently and effectively.
• Champion sustainable and resilient design practices throughout project development.

Technical Excellence & Quality Control

• Maintain ultimate responsibility for the technical quality and success of assigned projects.
• Conduct comprehensive quality assurance and quality control reviews throughout all project phases.
• Ensure compliance with company standards, industry best practices, and regulatory requirements.
• Perform in-depth architectural and engineering coordination reviews.
• Review, sign, and seal construction documents as required.
• Research and apply applicable codes, regulations, and jurisdictional requirements.

Project Delivery

• Direct coordination between architectural, structural, MEP, fire protection, and specialty consultants.
• Lead project kickoff meetings and establish coordination protocols.
• Manage permitting processes and responses to jurisdictional review comments.
• Oversee bidding procedures and procurement support activities.
• Support construction administration efforts, including responding to RFIs, reviewing submittals, field observations, and resolving construction-related issues.
• Coordinate peer reviews and document quality control efforts.

Client & Business Development

• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and public agencies.
• Represent client interests during public hearings, planning meetings, and governmental approvals.
• Participate in proposal development and pursuit strategies.
• Support business development and marketing initiatives.
• Assist project managers in defining project scope, schedules, and budgets.
• Prepare statements of probable construction costs and budgeting analyses.

Team Leadership & Mentorship

• Mentor, coach, and develop architects, designers, and technical staff.
• Provide guidance and support to junior team members, including Architect I staff.
• Conduct performance evaluations and contribute to professional development planning.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Help shape and advance the firm's vision, mission, and strategic goals.

Qualifications

• Active Architectural License required.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional architectural experience.
• Comprehensive knowledge of building systems, construction methods, materials, and techniques.
• Thorough understanding of applicable building codes, zoning regulations, life safety requirements, and industry standards.
• Proven ability to lead large-scale projects or multiple concurrent medium-sized projects.
• Strong leadership, communication, presentation, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing project deliverables.
• Proficiency in developing construction documents, specifications, and technical detailing.

Core Competencies

• Architectural Design Leadership
• Construction Documentation
• Building Codes & Regulatory Compliance
• Project Management
• Multidisciplinary Coordination
• Quality Assurance / Quality Control
• Construction Administration
• Cost Estimating & Budget Awareness
• Sustainability & Resilient Design
• Public Presentations & Client Relations
• Team Leadership & Mentorship
• Critical Thinking & Problem Solving