Project Architect – Community + Live, Workplace & Government

Location: Santa Monica, CA

HGA, a leading architectural, engineering, and planning firm, is seeking a talented and driven Project Architect to join our growing Community + Live, Workplace, and Government practice in Santa Monica, CA. We’re looking for someone with strong communication, presentation, time management, and interpersonal skills who thrives in a collaborative environment and is passionate about advancing great design.

In this role, you’ll work closely with Senior Designers, Project Managers, and other Project Architects to develop innovative and technically sound design solutions. You’ll lead the creation of detailed documentation while maintaining our firm’s high standards for design quality and client service.

What You’ll Do:

• Lead the development of construction documents and ensure design intent is accurately carried through.

• Translate complex project goals into creative and functional design solutions.

• Collaborate across disciplines to coordinate architectural and engineering systems.

• Participate in client meetings and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders.

• Ensure project milestones and deadlines are met with attention to detail and quality.

In this role you will:

Technical Design & Documentation

• Lead the development and coordination of project documentation, details, and specifications.
• Oversee BIM and technical workflows to ensure accuracy, consistency, and constructability.
• Integrate building systems and materials into cohesive, sustainable design solutions.
• Evaluate materials, assemblies, and systems for performance, code compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Champion quality assurance and continuous improvement in project delivery.

Project Coordination

• Manage technical scope, schedule, and deliverables for multiple projects or project phases.
• Lead coordination among consultants and multidisciplinary teams to resolve complex technical issues.
• Review and respond to submittals, RFIs, and field reports with sound professional judgment.
• Support construction administration through site observations and issue resolution.
• Maintain organized project documentation aligned with firm standards.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Partner with Project Managers and Design Leaders on project strategy, risk management, and delivery excellence.
• Mentor and coach team members in technical skills, documentation standards, and best practices.
• Facilitate coordination and design review meetings, ensuring alignment and accountability.
• Foster an inclusive, learning-oriented culture focused on technical quality and innovation.

Professional Development

• Expand expertise in codes, specifications, digital tools, and emerging construction technologies.
• Contribute to firmwide initiatives that advance technical excellence and project delivery standards.
• Advance proficiency in BIM workflows, QA/QC processes, and project management platforms.
• Demonstrate initiative, strategic thinking, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

What you will need to have:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture
• Architectural Licensure required
• LEED accreditation preferred
• 8 - 10 years of experience, including work on small to mid-size projects 

• Deep understanding of programming, codes, and technical detailing

• Strong leadership and collaboration skills in team environments

• Proficiency in Revit required; experience with AutoCAD, SketchUp, Enscape, and other graphic tools desired.
• Expertise with project management software and Microsoft Office Suite products needed
• Excellent communication, presentation, and time management skills

Salary Information:

The pay range listed aligns to the geography of the office for which this position is posted. Actual compensation will be based upon work experience, education, licensure requirements and/or skill level and will be finalized at the time of offer. Individuals in this role working more than 24 hours a week on a regular basis are eligible to participate in HGA’s robust benefit programs which include an annual bonus and success sharing bonus program, 401(k) guaranteed contribution, paid parental leave, medical, dental and life insurance plans as well as PTO and short- and long-term disability programs. Salary Range: $106,900 - $124,300 depending on qualifications and experience.

Additional Information:

At HGA, you’ll do the best work of your career. We design with impact by diving deep into the people and passions that shape every place. Empathy fuels us, curiosity drives us, and meaningful work leads to innovation. We celebrate individuality, embrace flexibility, and thrive together in the office three days a week.

Join our nationally recognized, award-winning team of architects, engineers, and interior designers — help us shape what’s next.

Learn more about us here.

Application Requirements & Instructions
Please submit resume and portfolio for consideration.