Associate Principal

OverviewAward-Winning 50-person distinguished architectural practice is actively seeking an Associate Principal to join their growing Walnut Creek studio. The firm possesses expertise in programming, planning, design, and management services, primarily catering to Educational Facilities for over three decades. With offices located in Orange County, San Diego, and East Bay, this firm boasts a wealth of professional knowledge, talent, and personalized commitment to their clients. The studios embrace hybrid work arrangements and prioritize the professional development and growth of their designers, architects, and managers.This role offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the future of educational spaces while advancing your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.ResponsibilitiesLead and oversee the design process for educational projects, including K-12 schools, community colleges, and universitiesCollaborate with clients, stakeholders, and team members to develop innovative design solutions that enhance learning outcomesEnsure design excellence and adherence to the company's high standards of quality and sustainabilityMentor and guide junior designers, fostering a culture of creativity and professional growthParticipate in business development activities, including client presentations and proposal preparationCoordinate with project managers and other disciplines to ensure integrated design solutionsStay current with emerging trends in educational design and sustainable practicesOversee design presentations and monitor project development to ensure consistent, high-quality design outcomesLead and direct design teams while maintaining technical production standards across all projectsProvide design direction for educational facilities, ensuring alignment with client needs and institutional cultureCoordinate with engineers, consultants, and project stakeholdersMonitor project timelines and budgets to deliver solutions on timeQualificationsProfessional degree in ArchitectureLicensed architect in California preferredMinimum 10 years of experience in architectural design, with a focus on K-12 educational facilities in CaliforniaProven track record of leading design teams, successful project delivery, client satisfaction, and delivering award-winning K-12 education projectsStrong understanding of California's educational facility requirements and DSA processesExcellent communication and presentation skillsExperience with or interest in business development and client relationship managementLEED accreditation preferredPreferred QualificationsExisting connections within the K-12 education sector in CaliforniaExperience in a senior designer or principal roleFamiliarity with sustainable design practices and LEED certificationKey CompetenciesExceptional design vision and ability to translate educational goals into innovative architectural solutionsStrong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate design teamsCollaborative approach to design, embracing the company's interactive workshop methodologyCommitment to sustainable design principles and practicesAbility to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high-quality standardsPassion for creating environments that support lifelong learning and student successIn this position, you'll have the opportunity to work on impactful educational projects, collaborate with a talented team, and contribute to shaping the future of learning environments. Join us in our mission to provide thoughtful, quality designs that facilitate student success and create environmentally sensitive settings for education.

Created: 2025-10-02