Senior Project Architect & Design Leader

Facade Today; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Cushing Terrell is seeking a Project Architect or Architectural Lead in Seattle to transform concepts into high‑performing spaces. You will lead projects from initial visioning through construction, guiding teams and coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors to deliver design excellence and value.

Experience in grocery/retail is valued but not required; candidates from varied sectors are encouraged.

Qualifications

• NAAB-accredited Bachelor or Master of Architecture degree.
• 8+ years job-related work experience with demonstrated competence leading projects, teams and clients.
• Experienced and passionate about leading projects and coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
• License is Optional: Current architect license/registration is a plus, not a must.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrated success building and maintaining strong client relationships through exceptional communication, responsiveness, and service.
• Proven ability to lead projects from initial programming and concept development through construction and project closeout.
• Successfully manage multiple projects simultaneously while balancing competing priorities, schedules, budgets, and client expectations.
• Thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment that requires strong organizational, time management, prioritization, and problem-solving skills.
• Collaborate with clients to define functional, operational, and spatial requirements; develop design solutions, specifications, material selections, and project schedules for client review and approval.
• Partner with design leaders and multidisciplinary teams to develop innovative and effective design concepts.
• Conduct research and analysis to inform project design, technical solutions, code compliance, and project delivery strategies.
• Prepare, coordinate, and oversee construction documents for permitting, bidding, and construction.
• Develop and evaluate project construction cost estimates in collaboration with the project team.
• Conduct code analysis and jurisdictional research to support project planning, permitting, and regulatory compliance.
• Perform quality control reviews of drawings, specifications, and project documentation; provide mentorship and constructive feedback to project teams.
• Administer construction contracts, including management of addenda, substitutions, submittals, RFIs, change orders, and other construction-phase services.
• Conduct site observations and field reviews during construction to verify compliance with design intent and contract documents; participate in punch walks and final inspections.
• Coordinate and direct the work of architectural team members, consultants, and other project stakeholders throughout all project phases.
• Contribute to staff mentorship, training, and professional development efforts.
• Foster and maintain positive relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and internal team members to support successful project outcomes and long-term business growth.

Skills

Project leadership

Team coordination

Client relationships

Communication

Education

NAAB-accredited architecture degree

Job description

Cushing Terrell is seeking a Project Architect or Architectural Lead in Seattle to transform concepts into high‑performing spaces. You will lead projects from initial visioning through construction, guiding teams and coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors to deliver design excellence and value.

Experience in grocery/retail is valued but not required; candidates from varied sectors are encouraged.