Senior Design Architect
El Segundo, California • Hybrid

Industry: Engineering Firm

Job Category: BTQ Inquiry - Hiring Needs

Job Type: Direct Hire



Job Description
A renowned architecture firm is hiring a Senior Design Architect to lead and grow its Los Angeles office. This is a high-impact leadership role for a licensed architect who can manage projects, mentor staff, build client relationships, and help grow the practice. The ideal candidate is a proven “seller/doer” with deep DSA knowledge and a passion for both design and client development. Partnership is not only on the table—it’s encouraged.

Salary Range: $140,000 – $190,000 / year DOE

Senior Design Architect Responsibilities:

Oversee and manage architectural projects, primarily in the public K–12 education sector
Serve as the lead for the LA office, managing a team of architects
Lead client presentations, interface with school districts, and develop new business
Write proposals, participate in marketing and business development initiatives
Ensure design quality, technical accuracy, and code compliance, particularly DSA
Collaborate with leadership on firm-wide initiatives and shared projects
Review and approve construction documents and design drawings
Mentor and develop junior team members
Help grow the department and firm’s market share in Southern California
Participate in high-level firm leadership with potential for future partnership
Senior Design Architect Requirements:

10+ years of architectural design experience, with a strong background in public K–12 education projects
California Architectural License is required
Deep understanding of DSA processes and compliance
Experience managing project teams and overseeing architectural departments
Strong client-facing experience, including proposal writing and relationship-building
Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or closely related field
Proficiency in reviewing Revit-based drawings
Self-motivated, entrepreneurial mindset with leadership ambitions
15+ years of total experience is a plus
Prior experience running or owning a firm is welcomed
Familiarity with Deltek, Office 365, and Autodesk Build
Benefits:

Comprehensive medical benefits
Dental and vision insurance
Profit-sharing 401(k) plan
Generous PTO
All 3-day weekends are extended to 4 days
Clear path to equity partnership for qualified candidates
Work/life balance – low stress, high collaboration culture