Associate- Civic

Do you thrive in an imaginative and inventive environment? Are you someone who flourishes when part of a cohesive team where collaboration and ideas flow freely? Want to work for a firm that is taking concrete actions toward Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion? Do you have a passion for shaping the future of civic environments? We’re looking for an Associate to join our Civic team working on various projects within justice, government and other public sector project types in our Irvine office. 

The Associate is responsible for overseeing management activities within the market and requires strong supervisory skills, as well as continued outstanding performance and technical expertise.

As an Associate you will have these essential functions:
Project Leadership and Management

• Prepare project management plans and direct project teams for completion of all project tasks consistent with project management plans and ensures the completion of projects within established timelines and budgets.
• Supervise project teams to address and find solutions for project-related challenges.
• Supervise the financial management of projects including the development and adherence to work plans, monitoring project financial status, developing mitigation plans when required, and managing monthly project financial tasks.
• Assist project team and market/studio leadership with other duties that may be assigned.

Staff Management and Development

• Direct and mentor less experienced staff and provide input to human resource issues such as staff performance reviews and conflict resolution.
• Delegate tasks to staff as well as coaching and supporting staff's professional development.
• Participate in market/studio project manager meetings and staffing processes.

Business Development and Strategic Involvement

• Expand the firm's client base, secure projects, and build relationships with stakeholders.
• Develop proposals with the assistance of the Principal-In-Charge and/or Studio Leader.
• Contribute to interviews, presentations and pitches for new or repeat work.
• Assist in or conduct contract negotiations related to project teams and fee development.

The Must-Haves:

• Bachelor's degree in architecture (or equivalent) and a minimum of 10 years of architectural experience.
• California Licensed Architect
• 7+ years of experience within justice, government and/or other public sector project types
• Strong collaboration, leadership, communication and relationship building skills
• Demonstrated technical ability with BIM/Revit, CAD, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office
• A genuine interest in both design and technical excellence

The Like to Haves:

• LEED, CASP accreditation(s)

Why You’ll Love Lionakis…
At Lionakis, people and design come first. You’ll find:

• A collaborative, design-forward culture that values creativity, mentorship, and shared success.
• The chance to shape stories that impact real communities.
• Hybrid work flexibility, every-other-Friday off options, and a comprehensive benefits package (bonus plan, 401(k) with match, health/dental/vision, generous PTO).
• A workplace deeply committed to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion – in our projects, our people, and our culture.

Join us and help bring our design vision to life—one story at a time.

Salary Range: $137,400- $169,100 annually. Compensation and level DOE.

Studies have shown that underrepresented individuals like women; LGBTQIA+; and BIPOC, among others, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe they meet every single one of the qualifications in a job description or posting. Because we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organization, we understand the best candidate may come from a non-traditional background to our field of work. We strongly encourage you to apply, even if you don't believe you meet every one of the qualifications described above. Diversity makes us better.