Project Manager- Architect

Keystone Distinction Group; Topeka, Northern (KS, KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Keystone Distinction Group in Topeka, KS is seeking a Project Manager to lead architecture projects from concept through construction closeout. You will guide multidisciplinary teams, manage budgets and schedules, mentor staff, and ensure design intent and quality across all phases.

This role requires RA, 8+ years of architectural experience, and strong communication with clients and consultants. You will contribute to maintaining our standards and driving project success in a collaborative

Qualifications

• 8+ years of architectural experience with leadership exposure.
• Registered Architect (RA).
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders.
• Proficiency with MS Office and PDF mark-up tools; knowledge of design software.

Responsibilities

• Own the project lifecycle from planning through construction closeout.
• Manage scope, schedule, and budget; forecast fees and review invoices.
• Serve as primary client liaison; lead presentations and provide updates.
• Coordinate architects, interior designers, and consultants to maintain design cohesion.
• Assist with proposals, negotiate consultant agreements, and track contract compliance.
• Oversee QA/QC reviews, permitting documentation, and adherence to standards.
• Lead construction administration: submittals, RFIs, site visits, and field reports.
• Mentor staff and foster a collaborative team environment.

Skills

Team leadership

Project management

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Tools

MS Project

Excel

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Photoshop

Job description

About the Role

As a Project Manager, you'll be the point person from concept through construction closeout-driving schedules, budgets, communication, and quality. You'll guide multidisciplinary teams, manage client expectations, coordinate consultants, and ensure our design intent is built as envisioned. You'll also mentor emerging professionals and champion our culture every step of the way.

What You'll Do

• Own the project lifecycle: Lead planning, programming, design development, construction documents, bidding/negotiation, construction administration, and closeout.
• Manage scope, schedule, and budget: Develop work plans, track milestones, forecast fees, review invoices, and proactively address risks and changes.
• Serve as primary client liaison: Set expectations, lead presentations, deliver consistent updates, and ensure excellent client experience.
• Coordinate the team: Direct architects, interior designers, and consultants (structural, MEP, civil, etc.) to maintain design cohesion and technical accuracy.
• Handle contracts & proposals: Assist with proposals, negotiate consultant agreements, track contract compliance, and support business development presentations.
• Ensure quality & compliance: Oversee QA/QC reviews, code analysis, permitting documentation, and adherence to firm standards and industry best practices.
• Lead construction administration: Review submittals, respond to RFIs, issue ASIs/PRs/COs, conduct site visits and punch lists, and author field observation reports.
• Risk Management: Work proactively to identify risks in the project and provide project planning and mitigation strategies to eliminate or reduce the potential risk.
• Document rigorously: Maintain organized project files, meeting minutes, decision logs, and status reports for internal and external stakeholders.
• Mentor and manage staff: Delegate tasks, support professional development, and foster a collaborative, accountable team environment.
• Adapt and improve: Embrace evolving priorities, suggest process improvements, and live our core values daily.

What You'll Bring

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or degree in Architecture
• 8+ years of architectural experience, with at least 2 years leading projects or teams.
• Registered Architect (RA)
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders simultaneously.
• Strong planning, communication, and mentoring skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project) and PDF mark-up tools (e.g., Bluebeam).
• Alignment with our core values: People First, Be Humble-Be Confident, Go Big, Build Excellence, Commit to Ethics.

Skills & Competencies

Soft Skills:

• Team Mentality
• Leadership skills to motivate, mentor, and guide diverse teams.
• Organizational skills
• Ability for Empathy and understanding

Hard Skills:

• Excellent project management skills, including proficiency in tools like MS Project, Excel, Revit, AutoCAD, Sketchup, Photoshop, and similar platforms.
• Financial Acumen and cost control
• Strong speaking abilities to convey information and collaborate effectively
• Time management
• Risk management
• Stakeholder Management
• Project Management Certifications (Desired but Not Required)