Senior Project Architect - K-12 Studio

We are looking for a Senior Project Architect to join our K-12 Studio in Phoenix, AZ.

Description

Grace Design Studios is seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Project Architect to lead the design and execution of K–12 educational projects from concept through construction. The ideal candidate brings strong leadership, technical expertise, and creative vision to manage complex project coordination, mentor junior staff, and collaborate effectively with clients, consultants, and internal teams.

Experience with school design, student-focused spaces, and educational regulations is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of K–12 educational projects across all phases, ensuring alignment with client goals, educational program needs, and firm standards.
• Develop innovative, functional, and age-appropriate design solutions that address safety, accessibility, and sustainability requirements.
• Prepare compelling presentations, drawings, and documentation to communicate design intent to clients, stakeholders, and project teams.
• Coordinate with consultants to integrate all design disciplines and ensure regulatory/code compliance.
• Oversee the production, quality, and technical accuracy of construction documents and design deliverables.
• Lead and mentor project teams, guiding junior staff in design, technical development, and professional growth.
• Manage project planning, schedules, and resources to ensure timely and on-budget delivery of school projects.
• Conduct design reviews and quality control checks to maintain high standards of performance, functionality, and safety.
• Serve as the primary client liaison, presenting concepts, addressing feedback, and fostering strong, collaborative relationships.

Required Skills

• Accredited professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) required.
• Licensed Architect with 10+ years of professional experience, including leadership across all phases of architecture and engineering projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in educational or K–12 facility design strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and design presentation tools (e.g., SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• In-depth knowledge of building codes, construction methods, regulatory requirements, and school-specific safety standards.
• Strong design, technical, and problem-solving skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams, manage consultant coordination, and mentor junior staff.

Benefits

• Employer-paid health insurance, effective the 1st of the month after date of hire
• Profit sharing bonuses
• 401(k) plan with an employer match
• Employer-paid short-term disability, long-term disability, and life and AD&D insurance
• Other voluntary benefits including vision, dental, accident insurance, critical illness, hospital indemnity, and supplemental life insurance are available
• Paid Time Off
• Holidays