Senior Project Architect — Higher Ed & Civic Lead

Carrier Johnson + Culture; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Carrier Johnson + Culture (CJ+C) is seeking a Senior Project Architect in San Diego to lead the technical development and delivery of complex projects. You will translate design intent into buildable solutions, guide teams, and manage multiple efforts with a strong emphasis on coordination and regulatory understanding.

With 12+ years of experience and licensure, you will work on higher education and civic projects, coordinating with clients, design leaders, and interdisciplinary teams while

Qualifications

• Licensed Architect required or in current process for licensure.
• Degree in Architecture from an accredited university required.
• 12+ years of professional experience on higher education and civic projects.
• Experience with San Diego County or Southern California institutions and approvals preferred.
• Strong technical expertise in building systems, construction methods, detailing, and multidisciplinary coordination.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical development and coordination across all phases: schematic design, design development, construction documents, and construction administration.
• Develop and oversee construction documents with clarity and coordination.
• Coordinate internal teams and external consultants for integrated systems.
• Guide projects through California Building Code, accessibility, and DSA approvals.
• Support project delivery aligning technical solutions with goals, budgets, and schedules.
• Oversee construction administration: RFIs, submittals, site visits, and field coordination.
• Collaborate with Project Managers and Design Leaders to align design vision and execution.
• Participate in stakeholder and user meetings for programming and coordination.
• Incorporate sustainable design strategies and performance-driven solutions.
• Contribute to QA/QC across deliverables.
• Mentor junior team members and support knowledge sharing.
• Communicate technical solutions clearly to clients and consultants.

Skills

Coordination leadership

Team leadership

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Architecture

California licensure preferred

Tools

Revit

Job description

Carrier Johnson + Culture (CJ+C) is seeking a Senior Project Architect in San Diego to lead the technical development and delivery of complex projects. You will translate design intent into buildable solutions, guide teams, and manage multiple efforts with a strong emphasis on coordination and regulatory understanding.

With 12+ years of experience and licensure, you will work on higher education and civic projects, coordinating with clients, design leaders, and interdisciplinary teams while