Project Architect

Great projects don't lead themselves; they need someone who can hold the whole picture together: the design intent, the code, the client relationship, and the team pulling it off. As a Project Architect in our Minneapolis office, you'll lead small to medium-scale projects across multiple markets, guiding teams of varied experience levels from concept through construction.

Cuningham's purpose is to design a better world with deep respect for the real one - a purpose that shapes our vision of a world made better by selfless design, and shows up in what we value: curiosity, craft, responsible design, growing together, and caring for each other. In this role, you'll lead the design process through all project phases, including the development of deliverables and the documentation of design solutions required by both the project's design and local governing code - managing small to medium-scale project scopes and small teams with various experience levels.

What you will be doing:

• Lead the technical development and coordination of projects through all phases of design and construction.
• Guide project teams in translating design concepts into high-quality, code-compliant, and buildable solutions.
• Collaborate with Project Managers to establish high-performing teams and support successful project delivery.
• Coordinate and manage communication with clients, consultants, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Lead code analysis, technical detailing, building systems integration, and envelope design strategies.
• Oversee BIM coordination, project documentation, specifications integration, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Direct quality assurance and quality control efforts to ensure accuracy, consistency, and contract compliance.
• Identify project risks and proactively communicate solutions with project leadership.
• Participate in construction administration activities, including site observations, field verification, and issue resolution.
• Support business development efforts through proposal development, interview preparation, and project pursuits.
• Mentor and support the growth of emerging design professionals through collaboration, coaching, and thoughtful delegation.
• Champion regenerative design approaches and contribute to a culture of innovation, collaboration, and design excellence.

What we look for:

• Bachelor's or master's degree in architecture or related field
• Licensed Architect preferred; candidates not yet licensed may be considered for a Team Leader title based on experience and qualifications
• 8+ years of professional architectural experience, including experience leading projects through multiple phases of design and construction.
• Experience working across multiple project types and market sectors.
• Strong knowledge of building systems, construction documentation, technical detailing, building envelope design, and applicable building codes.
• Proficiency with Revit, BIM workflows, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills with clients, consultants, and project teams.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams and managing technical project delivery.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor team members and foster collaborative, high-performing project environments.
• Commitment to design excellence, continuous learning, and sustainable and regenerative design principles.

Compensation provided is based on our national range which varies by work location and may also depend on accreditation, experience and responsibilities. Our talent management team can share more about the specific salary range for your location during the hiring process.

Compensation range updated 1/18/2026.
Benefits: Cuningham offers a variety of benefits to employees including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, an employee wellness program, life and disability insurance, 401k retirement savings plan, paid holidays, and paid time off.

Why Cuningham?

At Cuningham, we believe the best work happens when people are supported, challenged, and connected. Whether collaborating across teams, engaging with our communities, or shaping meaningful design solutions, we bring pragmatic creativity and disciplined execution to every project - and we support each other through it all.

We nurture an equitable work environment where curiosity is celebrated, craft is valued, and growth is prioritized. Alongside a team that brings low-ego expertise and active leadership day-to-day, you'll work on complex, high-stakes projects that demand bold thinking and disciplined delivery.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Cuningham is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and values the strength diversity brings to the workplace when combined with equity and justice. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, age, genetic information, national origin, disability, military, or veteran status.