Senior Project Architect — PreK–12 Education (CA DSA)

HED; San Diego (CA); Hybrid; USD 130,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

HED is seeking an experienced Project Architect IV to lead medium- to large-scale PreK–12 educational projects in California, including DSA compliance and construction administration. The role includes signing and sealing documents as Architect of Record where designated and mentoring teams.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years of architectural experience, strong knowledge of DSA procedures and California Building/Accessibility Codes, and proficiency in Revit.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of professional architectural experience with a focus on technical project delivery.
• Experience delivering California PreK–12 educational facilities and DSA knowledge.
• Ability to lead medium- to large-scale projects from planning through closeout.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, coordination, and technical execution of medium- to large-scale PreK–12 projects
• Develop and oversee coordinated construction documents that align with project goals, DSA requirements, and applicable codes
• Create and manage the Discipline Work Plan (DWP) in collaboration with the Project Manager
• Coordinate work across design and engineering disciplines, consultants, and production teams to ensure seamless project delivery
• Lead interactions with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), including DSA and local permitting agencies
• Guide project teams through the DSA approval process, including document preparation, agency coordination, review responses, and project closeout requirements
• Ensure project documentation complies with DSA requirements, California Building Code, California Accessibility Code, and applicable educational facility standards
• Participate in client meetings, presentations, stakeholder workshops, and community engagement activities
• Lead construction administration activities, including RFIs, submittals, field observations, field reports, and contractor coordination
• Serve as Architect of Record as assigned and sign and seal documents prepared under your direct supervision
• Mentor emerging professionals and contribute to technical excellence, quality assurance, and knowledge sharing across the firm

Skills

Leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Collaboration

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor of Science in Architecture

California Architectural License

NCARB certification

LEED Accreditation

Tools

Revit

Revizto

UpCodes

RIB SpecLink

Job description

HED is seeking an experienced Project Architect IV to lead medium- to large-scale PreK–12 educational projects in California, including DSA compliance and construction administration. The role includes signing and sealing documents as Architect of Record where designated and mentoring teams.

The ideal candidate has 10+ years of architectural experience, strong knowledge of DSA procedures and California Building/Accessibility Codes, and proficiency in Revit.