Senior Project Manager (McGriff Architects)

McGriff Architects is an award-winning custom residential architecture firm based in San Francisco. We are seeking a Senior Project Manager to join our team. This role is responsible for overseeing project delivery, mentoring Project Managers and staff, maintaining operational excellence, and partnering with the Principal and Leadership Team to advance the firm’s design vision, culture, and strategic goals.

The ideal candidate is an accomplished architect and leader who excels at balancing design excellence with technical rigor, developing high-performing teams, and creating systems that support great project outcomes.

This is an opportunity for an experienced architect who is ready for the next step in their career - someone who can come in, successfully lead projects, integrate into our culture, and gradually take on greater responsibility for project delivery, people leadership, and broader studio operations.

Who You Are

• A collaborative leader who enjoys mentoring staff and helping Project Managers and emerging professionals grow
• A strategic thinker with strong organizational skills and a track record of improving processes and project delivery
• Comfortable balancing big-picture leadership with attention to detail
• An effective leader and communicator who builds trust with clients, consultants, and project teams
• Passionate about fostering a positive, collaborative, and high-performing studio culture
• Based in the Bay Area, and familiar with the region’s design, permitting, and construction environment preferred
• Interested in building relationships and network within the Bay Area and broader design community

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture
• 15+ years of experience in an architecture firm, including significant experience leading high-end residential projects
• Demonstrated success managing projects from programming through construction administration, including development of complete construction document sets
• Strong design sensibility with excellent technical knowledge of materials, construction methods, and detailing
• Thorough knowledge of building codes, planning requirements, and permitting processes
• Experience coordinating and reviewing consultant work, evaluating technical solutions, and integrating systems that align with project goals
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Microsoft Office, Google Suite, Monograph or other project management software
• Strong communication, organizational, problem-solving, and project management skills
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a collaborative environment
• Demonstrated leadership experience mentoring staff, delegating work, and maintaining high-quality standards
• Commitment to QA/QC processes, office standards, and continuous improvement
• Client-focused with the ability to build relationships, manage expectations, and communicate effectively

Key Responsibilities

Studio & Project Leadership

• Lead the delivery of high-end residential projects from programming through construction administration
• Partner with the Principal to ensure the execution of the design vision and project goals
• Monitor project health, schedules, staffing, budgets, and overall performance across the studio to maintain quality, profitability, and momentum
• Ensure project delivery aligns with the firm’s design values, quality standards, and business objectives
• Maintain visibility across the studio’s project portfolio and proactively identify and address project risks

Project Delivery & Technical Excellence

• Oversee the development of design and construction documents to ensure the highest standards of quality and technical excellence
• Direct and coordinate project teams to achieve efficient workflows, high productivity, and successful project execution
• Coordinate and review consultant work, evaluate technical solutions, and ensure integration of systems that support project goals
• Ensure compliance with planning requirements, building codes, and regulatory agencies
• Lead office QA/QC efforts and maintain consistent documentation and CAD standards

Team Leadership & Studio Operations

• Lead, mentor, and support Project Managers and project teams, fostering professional growth, accountability, and high performance
• Provide experienced guidance throughout every phase of project delivery, helping teams navigate technical and management challenges
• Identify staffing needs, allocate resources, and collaborate with Principal on hiring and team development
• Maintain and continually improve project management systems, documentation standards, workflows, and best practices
• Foster a positive, organized, collaborative, and high-performing studio culture

Client & Business Development

• Serve as a senior client contact, building trusted relationships and managing client expectations
• Collaborate with Principal on business development, marketing initiatives, and prospective client interviews
• Represent the firm with professionalism and help strengthen the firm’s presence within the design community

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Paid time off
• 9 paid holidays
• Hybrid work schedule (3 days in the office, 2 days remote)
• 100% employer-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) plan with employer contribution
• Transit benefits
• Continuing education and professional development support
• Annual remote work flexibility of up to two weeks
• Professional licensure incentives and reimbursement

How to Apply

Qualified individuals are invited to submit a cover letter that speaks to your interest in custom residential architecture and your leadership experience, a resume, and professional work samples in PDF format (or a link to your website).

Please send all items to careers@mcgriffarchitects.com with the subject line “Senior Project Manager - Your Name.” No telephone calls or recruiters, please.

McGriff Architects thanks all candidates for their interest; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.