The Senior Project Architect is a design-focused and collaborative professional who brings both technical expertise and project leadership to a multidisciplinary environment. As a key member of the project team, they provide architectural direction alongside project management oversight, guiding projects from concept through to completion with a strong emphasis on design excellence, quality, and project outcomes.
The Senior Project Architect is accountable for the successful delivery of projects, balancing design intent with program, budget, and technical requirements. They lead and coordinate project teams, ensuring that solutions are well integrated across disciplines while maintaining alignment with client objectives. They lead a diverse portfolio of projects, with a particular emphasis on healthcare, education, federal, and laboratory environments, bringing a thoughtful and integrated approach to complex challenges.
Working across multiple projects and locations, this role requires strong communication, coordination, and relationship-building skills. It requires the ability to manage both the creative and operational aspects of delivery, fostering collaboration across teams and stakeholders. The position offers opportunities for continued professional growth within an employee-owned culture, with pathways into design leadership, program management, and broader operational roles.
In the role of Senior Project Architect, we'll count on you to
Direct and coordinate work of single or multidiscipline teams throughout project lifecycles (from development & initiation to close-out)
Establish and maintain client relations and be involved with marketing, contractual, design and production meetings.
Develop, seek approval for and implement project work plans defining the scope, resources, schedule, and budget necessary to meet the needs of each project
Engage resources and maintain the necessary project team composition throughout the project
Direct and coordinate work of all professional staff and sub-consultants
Review architectural documents for areas of conflict with all disciplines
Communicate effectively, meaningfully and frequently with project stakeholders
Interface closely with local municipalities and authorities having jurisdiction to ensure designs conform to with standards/codes and gain necessary approvals
Prepare and conduct multi-stakeholder work sessions/presentations, charrettes, consultations, design reviews etc. as needed
Oversee ,engage in preparation of, and develop reports, design drawings and architectural specifications
Implement QA/QC procedures for all work produced
Coordinate workload through entire project development and ensure completion of tasks on schedule
Track financial aspects of projects, coordinate and adjust work efforts of the team to ensure that work is completed within parameters of approved budgets
Work with Business/Accounting Manager or Project Controller and Department Manager for project reviews and with company management as needed
Manage several work assignments/projects concurrently
Travel to and attend various external site locations and offices to lead and participate in inspections, meetings, etc.
Coordinate with and assist affected disciplines with addenda, RFIs, CPRs and change orders
Provide construction contract administration as needed
Supervise large project teams and act as mentor for less-experienced Architects and other team members
Comply with all relevant legislation and corporate policies/procedures
Perform other duties as needed
Preferred Qualifications
Master's degree in Architecture
Experience in the areas of healthcare, federal, educational, civic, science and research facilities
Strong interpersonal skills and excellent written and verbal English communications skills
Strong computer skills and experience using the Microsoft Office suite
LEED AP or experience in sustainable design
PMP certification would be an asset
Knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator, SketchUp and 3-D Studio Max .
Rhino and Grasshopper experience
Demonstrated subject matter expertise in architectural design and construction
Additional assets include: functional familiarity with Bluebeam, MS Project
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Architecture or closely related field
A minimum of 10 years experience
Registered Architect
Experience with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Project Schedule)
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficient in use of Autodesk Revit and familiarity with related tools and process
Demonstrated graphic presentation skills
Must have experience in preparation and layout of architectural contract documents and specifications
Strong knowledge of codes and good planning skills
An attitude and commitment to being an active participant of our employee-owned culture is a must
What We Believe
HDR is our company. Together, we build on each other's life experiences and perspectives to make great things possible every day. This shapes our collaborative culture, encourages organizational trust and connects us closer to the clients and communities we serve.
- Our Commitment
- As employee owners, we all have a role in creating an inclusive environment where each of us is welcomed, valued, respected and empowered to bring our authentic selves to work every day.
Our eight Employee Network Groups (Asian Pacific, Black, Hispanic/Latino(a), LGBTQ+, People with Disabilities, Veterans, Women, Young Professionals) help create a sense of belonging and foster a supportive environment where everyone is empowered to engage and contribute. Each group has an executive sponsor and is open to all employees.
At HDR, the health and safety of our employees is of the upmost importance. In accordance with local safety, health, and environmental legislation, HDR is committed to developing, maintaining, and enforcing proactive safe work policies, procedures, and standards.
In accordance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and other applicable legislation, we are committed to meeting the accessibility needs of persons with disabilities. Candidates with disabilities may request reasonable accommodation throughout the recruitment and selection process by contacting our Human Resources team.
HDR is a certified Living Wage Employer in Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta.
