Project Architect / Architect IV PreK-12 & Higher Education

Position Summary:HED is seeking an experienced Architect IV to join our growing PreK–12 Education and Higher Education practice in the Los Angeles area. This senior-level role leads the technical delivery of educational projects from planning through construction, including consultant coordination, project documentation, regulatory approvals, and construction administration, with a proven record of delivering technically sound work within the PreK–12 and Higher Education market sector.The ideal candidate has extensive experience delivering California PreK–12 and Higher Education facilities and a strong understanding of Division of the State Architect (DSA) requirements, California building codes, and educational facility standards. As a technical leader, you will also mentor project teams, support quality initiatives, and serve as Architect of Record when designated.HED Culture:At HED, we believe great design has the power to improve lives. Our integrated teams of architects, engineers, planners, and designers collaborate to create inspiring learning environments that support student success and strengthen communities.Our culture is guided by six core values:Do It as a TeamBe You With UsMake a MarkEmbrace ChangeThrive With GrowthStrive for Performance Work Environment: We embrace a hybrid model that promotes both autonomy and collaboration, including the freedom to work from home, with regular in-office days to connect with teammates and build culture. The office is a professional, open-space environment for collaborative and independent work.When you join HED, you’ll have the opportunity to:Design impactful educational environments that serve students, educators, and communitiesCollaborate across disciplines to deliver thoughtful, sustainable, and high-performing solutionsPartner with school districts, educational stakeholders, consultants, and regulatory agencies to achieve successful project outcomesContribute to a culture that values mentorship, professional growth, knowledge sharing, and continuous learningWork in a flexible hybrid environment that balances autonomy with meaningful in-person collaborationBe part of a team committed to design excellence, technical rigor, and creating lasting positive impactResponsibilities:Lead the technical planning and delivery of significant PreK–12 educational projects throughout the Design and Construction phasesDevelop and oversee coordinated construction documents and technical qualityManage a Discipline Work Plan and coordinate project teams, consultants, and engineering disciplines for seamless project deliveryCollaborate with school districts, educational stakeholders, and project partnersLead coordination of DSA approvals and interactions with all regulatory agenciesEnsure project documentation complies with DSA requirements, California Building Code, accessibility requirements, and applicable educational facility standardsLead participation in client meetings, presentations, stakeholder workshops, and community engagement activitiesConduct building systems, materials, and product research to support informed design decisions and contribute to firmwide technical resourcesLead construction administration activities, including RFIs, submittals, and field observationsServe as Architect of Record Mentor team members and support technical excellence across the practiceRequirements:Professional degree in ArchitectureActive California Architectural License requiredMinimum of 10 years of architectural experienceLEED Accreditation and NCARB certification preferredDemonstrated experience delivering California PreK–12 educational projectsStrong knowledge of DSA requirements, California Building Code, and accessibility regulationsExperience collaborating with school districts and public-sector stakeholders.Proficiency in Revit requiredExperience with Revizto, UpCodes, and RIB SpecLink is a plusStrong leadership, communication, and collaboration skillsPassion for mentoring and motivating others with a commitment to design quality, technical excellence, and continuous improvementPhysical Requirements:Ability to travel to project sites and client meetingsAbility to work at a computer for extended periods.Ability to review drawings, specifications, and digital documents.Effective written, verbal, and visual communication skills.Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.