Job description

The Senior Designer is a senior-level architectural design professional responsible for leading project design efforts from concept through construction documentation. This role develops innovative design solutions, coordinates with consultants and stakeholders, ensures compliance with codes and standards, and mentors junior designers. The position requires extensive experience managing complex architectural projects while balancing design excellence, client satisfaction, project schedules, and budget requirements. Core Responsibilities Design Leadership Lead project design across all phases of development. Develop and refine design concepts that align with client goals. Prepare design drawings, presentations, specifications, and 3D models. Maintain design intent throughout the project lifecycle. Project Management & Coordination Coordinate with engineers, consultants, agencies, and other design disciplines. Monitor project documentation quality and drawing production. Ensure project deliverables are completed on schedule and within budget. Oversee multiple project stakeholders and technical requirements. Client Relations Build and maintain strong client relationships. Lead design presentations and communicate project vision effectively. Translate client needs into practical and innovative design solutions. Technical Excellence Apply building codes, regulations, and permitting requirements. Review design quality and compliance standards. Recommend materials, finishes, and products that support project goals. Integrate sustainable design practices into projects. Team Leadership Mentor and develop junior designers. Provide technical guidance and career development support. Foster collaboration and adherence to AO standards and processes. Key Competencies Required Qualifications Education Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field. Experience 15-20 years of architectural design experience. Experience across all phases of architecture and engineering projects. Strong project planning and leadership experience. Technical Skills AutoCAD Revit 3D modeling and visualization tools Building codes and permitting processes Construction documentation Soft Skills Leadership and team management Client-facing communication Problem-solving and decision-making Collaboration and relationship building Written and verbal communication Why AO? Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and the belief that great work happens when people are supported and challenged in equal measure. You’ll find a team that values: Strong relationships, with clients and each other A roll-up-your-sleeves mentality Continuous learning and professional growth Thoughtful design paired with technical rigor At AO, you will work alongside colleagues who care deeply about what they do and are committed to building something meaningful together. Benefits We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team. Highlights include: Medical, dental, life, and supplemental insurance Most medical plans fully paid for employee-only coverage Company-paid basic life insurance and long-term disability Retirement plan, health savings, and flexible spending accounts Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time Free parking and convenient transit access Employee discount program (OC location)

Requirements

Must-haves

Design Leadership
Lead project design across all phases of development.
Develop and refine design concepts that align with client goals.
Prepare design drawings, presentations, specifications, and 3D models.
Maintain design intent throughout the project lifecycle.
Project Management & Coordination
Coordinate with engineers, consultants, agencies, and other design disciplines.
Monitor project documentation quality and drawing production.
Ensure project deliverables are completed on schedule and within budget.
Oversee multiple project stakeholders and technical requirements.
Client Relations
Build and maintain strong client relationships.
Lead design presentations and communicate project vision effectively.
Translate client needs into practical and innovative design solutions.
Technical Excellence
Apply building codes, regulations, and permitting requirements.
Review design quality and compliance standards.
Recommend materials, finishes, and products that support project goals.
Integrate sustainable design practices into projects.
Team Leadership
Mentor and develop junior designers.
Provide technical guidance and career development support.
Foster collaboration and adherence to AO standards and processes.
Key Competencies

Nice-to-haves

None flagged.

Application prep

Use the role’s language and application details while tailoring your materials.

Platform: bamboohr
Effort: medium

Benefits

Benefits detected in the listing.

Dental

Vision