Principal Architect - Single Family/Townhomes

Position Overview

Lessard Design Inc. (LDI) studio is growing which means we are looking for a Principal to grow with it. We are in search of a Principal to join our Single Family/Townhome Residential studio to be partnered and responsible for operations, staff performance, financial profitability, staff development and growth of his/her group, consistent with LDI’s policies and approved business plan. Oversee Designers and Project Managers and assure technical and financial performance of all projects to meet Quality & Cost Assurance standards. Oversee the Group’s organizational staff development and administer LDI’s policies and programs.

LDI has been shaping the future of architecture for over 35 years. With a $25M Architecture division and a $20M Real Estate Development arm, the firm is renowned for its innovative designs and its commitment to creating vibrant, thriving communities.

LDI’s diverse portfolio includes award-winning projects across the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, ranging from high-rise towers to garden apartments. By blending creative ingenuity with real estate expertise, LDI is redefining what’s possible in the built environment.

This is a fully in-office position based in McLean (Tysons/Vienna), offering competitive compensation and comprehensive relocation support.

Responsibilities 

• Demonstrates leadership skills with ability and willingness to face challenges, solve problems, and motivate others, while maintaining effective relationships with customers by meeting or exceeding their requirements and expectations.

• Develop and implement the Group’s business plan

• Lead business development efforts by cultivating new client relationships, expanding existing accounts, and identifying strategic opportunities to grow the firm’s client base

• Develop strong ties with clients (as Client Sponsors) and professional organizations

• Increase LDI’s competitive position

• Review and approve all group bids and proposals for thoroughness and accuracy

• Negotiate bid price, work scope and proposed terms (consistent with LDI’s policy)

• Recruit, train and supervise all of the group personnel. Select, train and develop understudies for all key positions

• Administer career development plans, quarterly Intern Development Program and annual evaluations for each direct report

• Administer Group personnel, including hire, termination, performance and salary evaluations, promotions, demotions, achievement recognition, etc., in conformance with company policies).

• Conduct Programming, Feasibility Studies

• Assist in the design, production and construction administration so that accurate and coordinated project information can be consistently maintained (especially on stamped drawings prepared by others)

• Produce top quality designs that meet Clients’ expectations without impacting profit

• Respond to Construction Administration questions that require resolution by Architect, Engineer and Contractor

• Write contracts and Proposal Agreements with the Project Managers to develop appropriate fees, achievable schedules, and accurate contractual terms

• As a licensed architect, it is expected that you will stamp and seal your drawings. You will obtain, with Lessard’s assistance, additional licenses as necessary

• Develop all work scope, prepare budget, provide Quality Assurance and approve all work scope and budget for projects, subcontracts and all related addendums assigned to Group’s Associate Principals and Project Managers

• When appropriate, review, assist in development and approval of all Project Management Plans of the assigned group.

• Approve all group’s billings, variances and recommend write-off and other credits to Chief Financial Officer

• Mentor Group management in all areas of management and executive: technical, administrative, financial and marketing management and executive. Function as “Senior Resource” to LDI staff-at-large

• Negotiate Group’s contracts and budgets

• Develop new business to replace completed projects in conformance to the approved business plan. Develop new clients and maintaining assigned clients

• Maintain the group’s target labor utilization and coordinate with other Principals, Associate principals and Project Managers

• Attain “Key Performance Indicators”, as negotiated for the Group and self

• Support collection efforts, as required

• Must have a thorough understanding of state/local codes and accessibility requirements meeting state and federal standards

• Strong knowledge of building materials, detailing, construction techniques, related engineering principles, and building codes

Qualities

• Ability to make effective and persuasive presentations on complex topics to employees, clients, top management and/or public groups

• Good judgment and reasoning ability, enabling problem solving with the constant shifting of priorities and daily tasks

• Self-motivated personality to take on projects and assignments without the need for the micromanagement of a supervisor

• Experience in negotiation and dispute resolution

• Ability to manage time, deadline oriented, and takes initiative (self-starter)

• Proficient in spoken/written English

• Keen observation and detail-oriented skills

• Decision-making and documents checking abilities

• Must possess intellect, integrity, and influencing skills required to build strong professional relationships at all organization levels

• Strong organizational skills and disciplined accuracy are required

• The proven ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment

• Track record in successful single-family projects

• Strong aesthetic sense and interest in the arts

• Knowledge of professional ethics, as applied to architecture

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS), in Architecture, or related field

• Architectural License: Current architectural license is required. Must have held an active license for a minimum of five years

• Experience: 15+ year’s experience in Single Family/Townhome Residential Architecture

• Experience working on projects for national homebuilder groups, with a strong understanding of their procedures

• Software Proficiency: Revit, AutoCAD, Word, Excel, Microsoft Project, Photoshop and InDesign

• Building Type: Single Family/Towns Residential

• Single Family/Townhome Design via computer and hand-skills

• Strong knowledge of building materials, detailing, construction techniques, related engineering principles, and building codes

• Travel required for client meetings and business development