Talent Acquisition and HR Operations Lead

Lessard Design Inc. (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 benefits.

LDI is conducting a search for an experienced Talent and HR Operations professional to lead full-cycle recruitment and people operations. This role partners closely with senior leadership to understand staffing needs and recruit top talent across design, technical, project management, and administrative roles, ensuring a seamless onboarding experience. In addition to recruitment, the role oversees employee records, performance reviews, compensation tracking, benefits administration, and compliance with employment and immigration regulations.

The ideal candidate is a proactive self-starter with strong sourcing and communication skills, capable of assessing candidates for both technical expertise and cultural fit. Acting as a trusted partner to leadership and staff, this person will balance hands-on operational responsibilities with initiatives that foster a positive, collaborative, and engaging studio culture.

• Lead full-cycle hiring for a growing architecture and design studio, supporting roles across design, technical, project management, and studio operations
• Work closely with Principals and Studio Leads to understand immediate project needs, long-term staffing plans, and studio culture
• Develop authentic, relationship-driven sourcing strategies through professional networks, academic connections, referrals, and industry events
• Review resumes, portfolios, and work samples with an eye for design quality, technical skill, and cultural fit
• Coordinate and participate in interviews and reference checks, ensuring a thoughtful and welcoming candidate experience
• Manage pre-hire processes and lead new hire onboarding, helping new team members integrate smoothly into the studio
• Maintain accurate, confidential candidate and employee records
• Track recruiting activity and provide clear, practical insights to leadership on hiring progress and market conditions
• Continuously improve recruiting and onboarding processes to support a positive studio experience
• Serve as a trusted point of contact for candidates and staff, acting with discretion and care
• Anticipate staffing needs and address gaps proactively to support project continuity
• Build and maintain relationships with architecture and design schools; attend career fairs and studio events as needed

• Maintain personnel files and ensure documentation is accurate, organized, and compliant
• Coordinate performance review cycles and support Principals and Studio Leads with timelines, guidance, and documentation
• Prepare and track compensation and bonus review materials
• Support offboarding processes, including exit conversations and documentation
• Ensure compliance with employment regulations, including EEOC requirements and state labor postings (MD, DC, VA)
• Assist with performance improvement conversations and related documentation
• Draft and share studio communications and help plan team gatherings, celebrations, and culture-building activities

• Coordinate employment-based visa processes in partnership with immigration counsel
• Track documentation, timelines, and approvals, serving as a resource for international team members
• Maintain I-9 records and public access files in compliance with regulations

• Administer employee benefit programs, including health, dental, vision, life, disability, and retirement plans
• Process enrollments, changes, and terminations and provide clear…