Project Lead, Architect - K-12 & Higher Education Studio

GFF Design; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

GFF Design is seeking a seasoned Project Leader (Architect) to steer the Education Studio’s architectural direction and lead a multidisciplinary team through complex education projects in Dallas and beyond.

You will manage design phases, coordinate with engineers and clients, and deliver robust proposals, feasibility studies, and risk assessments while ensuring design quality and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
• Minimum 8 years of professional architecture experience with project leadership.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in managing teams and projects.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design phases from concept to completion for education projects.
• Collaborate with engineers, construction managers, and clients to ensure delivery.
• Develop design proposals, feasibility studies, and risk assessments for stakeholders.
• Mentor a team of architects and drafters, promoting innovation and excellence.
• Oversee the preparation of architectural documents and ensure adherence to standards.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Team management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Job description

GFF is a dynamic, award-winning multi-disciplinary design firm based in Dallas, with a legacy of excellence since 1982. Our team of over 110 design professionals in Dallas, Austin, and Fort Worth delivers innovative Architecture, Interior Design, and Planning across the United States. We have garnered national recognition and numerous accolades, including receiving The Texas Society of Architect’s prestigious ‘Firm Award’ and receiving over 125 awards for design excellence. Our collaborative, design-focused approach thrives on tackling complex projects with creativity and strategic thinking, ensuring sustainability and client service excellence.

About The Role:

We are seeking highly skilled Project Leader (Architect) to join our Education Studio of designers, architects, and planning professionals. We're looking to hire experienced Project Leader with a passion for innovative design and a keen eye for detail who will play a pivotal role in shaping the architectural direction of our projects and lead a team to ensure the successful delivery of complex architectural solutions.

What You'll Do:

• Lead the architectural design phases from concept to completion, ensuring all projects adhere to client specifications and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including engineers, construction managers, and clients, to facilitate seamless project execution.
• Develop and present design proposals, feasibility studies, and risk assessments to stakeholders.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects and draftspersons, promoting a culture of innovation and excellence.
• Oversee the preparation of architectural documents and ensure adherence to industry standards and best practices.
• Foster client relationships and ensure a high level of client satisfaction with project outcomes.

What You Bring:

• Working knowledge of typical commercial building types K-12 and / or Higher Education experience is required, materials, systems and technical detailing, experience in all design/construction phases, experience in coordination of consultant engineering work required (civil, structural, MEP).
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in architecture, with a strong portfolio of project leadership.
• Proficiency in architectural and design software, such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience in managing teams and projects.
• Thorough understanding of building codes, regulations, and compliance processes.
• Working knowledge of standard business software (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, etc.) required. MS Project proficiency a plus.
• Ability to meet project schedules and budgets across all design/construction phases.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills for multiple project assignments and considerable autonomy.