Design Director- Architect

$100,000 - $130,000/Yr

Design Draw Build - Oakland, CA

Full-time - Senior

Oakland, CA

Construction of Buildings

About the position

Design Draw Build, Inc. is seeking a visionary Design Director to lead a creative team in a collaborative environment focused on Design-Build projects. The role involves managing multiple architectural projects from concept to completion, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring high standards of design integrity and quality. The Design Director will work closely with the Principal and oversee the design process, project management, and client interactions, while fostering innovation and accountability within the team.

Responsibilities

• Direct, lead, mentor and manage a team of project managers, designers, and job captains.
• Manage and oversee consultants and vendors on projects.
• Provide strategic design direction while maintaining high standards for design integrity and quality.
• Manage complete architectural projects, including document control, client interaction, and construction administration.
• Oversee the design process for multiple projects, ensuring alignment with deliverables, client expectations, budget, and timelines.
• Conduct feasibility research and code reviews for architectural and construction projects.
• Facilitate permits and other municipal approvals.
• Develop project presentation materials with the support of design staff, including finished project renderings and diagrams.
• Coordinate closely with construction directors, project managers, and builders to facilitate the design-build process.
• Support the Principal in overseeing the studio and directing the design team of 8-10 designers, junior architects, and job captains.
• Manage oversight of in-house standards and quality control processes to improve project documentation.
• Oversee administrative and technical aspects to ensure efficient and cost-effective execution of assigned projects.
• Manage project resources, budgets, and schedules to deliver projects on time within scope and budget.

Requirements

• BArch or MArch in a related field required.
• 10+ years of experience in an architecture firm, with 5 years in a Project Manager or Senior Manager role.
• California experience required.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• California Building Code knowledge required.
• Design-Build experience preferred or a passion for Design-Build project delivery model.
• Driver's license and clean driving record required.
• Excellent administrative skills, organized, detail-oriented, and proficient in file management.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written.
• Ability to work collectively with a team and manage a team effectively.
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.

Nice-to-haves

• Licensed Architects preferred.
• AIA or LEED certification preferred.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Signing Bonus
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick days
• Architectural licensure support
• Office Happy Hours
• Team building and office outings
• Bicycle parking and shower in-house
• Ergonomic sit-stand workstations