Project Manager (Architect II)

Archinect; San Francisco (CA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Profit sharing

401k

Pension

Year-end bonus

Generous vacation/leave

Health benefits

Job summary

John Lum Architecture seeks a Project Manager to guide complex design and construction from concepts to completion in our San Francisco studio. The ideal candidate balances design ambition with technical precision and thrives on collaboration with clients and the design principal.

This role requires strong organizational leadership, comfort juggling priorities, and a proactive approach to delivering projects on time, on budget, and to the highest standards of quality and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture; architectural license preferred (LEED AP a plus).
• 8+ years of professional experience, including at least 2 years as a Project Manager.
• Experience leading architecture projects through all design and construction phases.
• Strong knowledge of California Building Standards Code; SF Planning and Building Departments familiarity.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects through all phases of design, from programming to construction administration.
• Serve as primary client and consultant contact, building strong relationships.
• Develop and manage schedules, staffing plans, budgets, and work plans.
• Coordinate consultants, project teams, and permitting processes.
• Oversee production and quality of design and construction documents.
• Balance design intent with technical execution while managing scope and client expectations.
• Mentor and support Project Designers and Designers.
• Embrace emerging digital technologies to improve delivery and efficiency.

Skills

Project management

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Education

Professional degree in Architecture

Tools

Vectorworks

BIM/CAD

Job description

John Lum Architecture is an award winning practice known for thoughtful, site-specific design, innovative use of materials, adaptive reuse, and modern livability. Our work spans custom residences, multi-family and affordable housing, and a range of commercial interiors including medical suites, optometry clinics, and TI. Our open-plan studio environment encourages collaboration, communication, and active design participation. We engage closely with clients and consultants throughout every stage of design and construction, and place a strong value on those relationships.

About the Role

John Lum Architecture is an award winning practice known for thoughtful, site-specific design, innovative use of materials, adaptive reuse, and modern livability. Our work spans custom residences, multi-family and affordable housing, and a range of commercial interiors including medical suites, optometry clinics, and TI. Our open-plan studio environment encourages collaboration, communication, and active design participation. We engage closely with clients and consultants throughout every stage of design and construction, and place a strong value on those relationships.

We are seeking a Project Manager to join our close-knit studio. The ideal candidate is passionate about guiding projects through every stage of the design and construction process, from initial concepts and sketches to final punch-list and completion. They excel at balancing design ambition with technical precision and enjoy collaborating closely with both clients and the design principal. While architecture is complex and serious by nature, we believe that one can and should have fun during the process.

This role is central to our practice, and we are looking for someone who is highly organized, technically proficient, and comfortable balancing design intent with day-to-day execution. The successful candidate will be a proactive leader, skilled at managing multiple priorities while ensuring projects are delivered with exceptional quality, attention to detail and client satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Lead projects through all phases of design, from programming and schematic design through construction administration
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and consultants, fostering strong relationships throughout the project
• Develop and manage project schedules, staffing plans, budgets, and work plans
• Coordinate consultants, project teams, and permitting processes to ensure successful project delivery
• Oversee the production and quality of design and construction documents
• Balance design intent with technical execution while proactively managing project scope and client expectations
• Mentor and support Project Designers and Designers in a collaborative studio environment
• Embrace emerging digital technologies, including AI-enabled tools, to improve project delivery and efficiency

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture; architectural license preferred (LEED AP a plus)
• 8+ years of professional experience, including at least 2 years as a Project Manager
• Experience leading projects through all phases of design and construction
• Thorough knowledge of the California Building Standards Code; experience with San Francisco Planning and Building Departments preferred
• Experience with Type V construction; custom residential experience preferred
• Experience managing consultants, budgets, staffing, schedules, and client relationships
• Working knowledge of Vectorworks or comparable BIM/CAD software; familiarity with AIA contract documents
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills; must be authorized to work in the U.S. without sponsorship and live in or relocate to the Bay Area

Studio Culture & Benefits

Our studio is located in a converted laundry machine factory in San Francisco's Mission District, with convenient access to public transportation. We offer a flexible hybrid work model with four days in the office and Fridays from home if desired.

JLA provides competitive compensation and benefits, including profit sharing, 401k, pension, year-end bonus programs, generous vacation and sick time, and comprehensive health benefits. We are committed to supporting our staff through mentorship, professional development, and opportunities for long-term growth within the practice.