Lead Project Architect – Federal Practice

Lead Project Architect – Federal Projects at GPD is a role that provides design leadership and technical expertise for federal projects from concept through completion. It is suitable for an experienced architect who thrives in highly regulated environments and is passionate about delivering secure, compliant, and high-quality design solutions for government clients. The Architect leads multidisciplinary teams, serves as a trusted advisor to federal clients, and ensures all project deliverables meet stringent federal standards, agency requirements, and firm quality expectations.

This position emphasizes strong leadership, technical oversight, and comprehensive Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC).

GPD is seeking a Lead Project Architect – Federal Projects to support GPD’s mission in the Federal practice. Join GPD Group to contribute to improving the well-being of our employees, clients, communities, and business partners by transforming opportunities into success. Our employee ownership fosters a collaborative environment where ideas and creativity are shared to deliver for clients. With 65+ years in architectural, engineering and planning services and a diverse team of 870+ professionals across 14 offices, we are committed to our purpose.

• In partnership with Project Managers and Contract Managers, lead the planning and architectural design of federal and military projects, demonstrating technical expertise and the ability to independently manage design challenges.
• Conduct building conditions assessments and building surveys.
• Collaborate with internal disciplines and external stakeholders to promote effective communication and coordination throughout all phases of federal project delivery.
• Serve as a primary client liaison, working directly with federal agencies and project teams to define, communicate, and refine project scope while translating client objectives into successful design implementation.
• Apply expert knowledge of federal, state, and local architectural codes, standards, and regulations, including agency-specific criteria, to resolve design issues and ensure full regulatory compliance.
• Review, coordinate, and refine work produced by project team members to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with federal design standards, agency guidelines, and project objectives.
• Coordinate final QA/QC reviews to verify that all deliverables meet the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and federal client requirements prior to submission.
• Complete as-built documentation as required by the governing agency and/or client.
• Provide expert technical advice for mission-specific infrastructure such as barracks, command centers, hangars, and hardened defense systems.
• Support in the pursuit of new projects and assist in proposal development, scope definition, and labor-hour estimating with technical insight aligned with federal procurement processes.
• Mentor and guide architectural staff, fostering professional development, technical excellence, and a culture of continuous improvement.
• Some travel will be required.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor of Architecture (5-year program) or Master of Architecture (6-year program) from a NAAB-accredited institution is required.
• Experience:
  
  Minimum of eight (8) years of job-related experience.
• Licensure/Certification:
  Registered Architect (RA) with NCARB certification required.
• A valid Driver's License is required.

• Strong leadership skills that promote collaboration and project success.
• Thorough understanding of security and anti-terrorism compliance.
• Familiar with Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) to ensure DoD design compliance across all branches.
• Advanced understanding of Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, Sketch Up, Photoshop, and other related software programs.
• Understanding of design-build and other project delivery methods.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Excellent organizational and time management skills to handle multiple tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, with the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a project team.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, open office work environment and across multiple offices.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact professionally with clients, vendors, and other external sources.

• Health Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Short Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• 401(k) with matching and company contribution
• Bonus
• Vacation & Sick Time
• And much more…

GPD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All applicants and employees are treated without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veterans, or any other characteristic protected by law. Our company uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility for all newly hired employees.