Senior Project Architect – Correctional / Justice Facilities

DRG Architects; Franklin Township (NJ); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is on the lookout for a Senior Project Architect specializing in correctional facilities. This pivotal role involves leading high-profile projects that shape the future of justice architecture. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in secure environments and a proven track record of guiding multidisciplinary teams through all project phases. This is a unique opportunity to influence impactful designs that prioritize safety and community wellbeing while fostering professional growth in a collaborative environment.

Benefits

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Mentorship opportunities

Clear pathways for career advancement

Qualifications

• 10+ years of architectural experience with 5+ years in correctional facility design.
• Strong command of design software and building systems.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and technical aspects of correctional facility projects.
• Ensure compliance with codes and oversee construction phases.

Skills

Revit

AutoCAD

Adobe Creative Suite

Leadership Skills

Communication Skills

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Architecture

LEED Accreditation

Tools

Construction Documentation

Building Systems Knowledge

Job description

Senior Project Architect – Correctional / Justice Facilities

Senior Project Architect – Correctional / Justice Facilities

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Job Title: Senior Project Architect – Correctional / Justice Facilities

Location: Somerset, New Jersey

Company: Design Resources Group Architects, AIA

Job Type: Full-Time

About Us

Design Resources Group Architects (DRG Architects) is a respected architectural practice known for shaping thoughtful, resilient, and community-centered spaces across the public sector. With a growing portfolio of justice-related and civic architecture, we are committed to design excellence and meaningful impact. As we expand our practice, we are seeking a Senior Project Architect with specialized expertise in correctional facility design to join our leadership team in Somerset, NJ.

Position Overview

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead high-profile correctional and detention facility projects that influence the future of justice architecture. The ideal candidate will be a licensed architect with deep experience in secure environments and a proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams from concept through construction. You will play a central role in shaping project vision, maintaining design integrity, and ensuring technical precision across all project phases.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the design and technical lead for correctional and justice facility projects across the region
• Collaborate closely with clients, government agencies, and consultants to deliver secure, functional, and human-centered environments
• Direct the development of construction documents, ensuring full compliance with relevant codes, accessibility standards (ADA), and correctional facility guidelines
• Provide oversight during bidding and construction phases, supporting quality assurance and field coordination
• Lead internal design charrettes and mentor emerging professionals within a collaborative studio culture
• Contribute to project scheduling, budgeting, and strategic planning alongside firm leadership

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of architectural experience, including at least 5 years focused on correctional or detention facility design
• Strong command of Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite
• Expertise in building systems, detailing, and construction documentation
• Familiarity with public procurement processes and design-build delivery models
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience working with departments of correction, municipal or county jail systems
• LEED accreditation and a working knowledge of sustainable design practices
• NCARB certification or eligibility for reciprocity
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects concurrently and deliver under tight deadlines

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits
• The opportunity to shape landmark projects that contribute to public safety and community wellbeing
• A supportive, inclusive work environment focused on mentorship and professional growth
• Clear pathways for leadership development and long-term career advancement

To Apply

Please email your resume, cover letter, and portfolio (PDF or web link) to Hany Y. Salib, AIA – CEO at [e-mail], using the subject line:

“Senior Project Architect – Correctional Facilities”

Note: This is a senior-level position. If you do not meet the minimum required experience, we kindly ask that you do not apply.

• We appreciate your interest in DRG Architects. Only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Seniority level

• Seniority level

  Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Employment type

  Full-time

Job function

• Job function

  Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology

• Industries

  Architecture and Planning

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