Project Manager – Architect

Overview

Project Manager – Architect | Design Draw Build (DDB)

At Design Draw Build, we don’t just build structures; we curate experiences. We are an Oakland-based, architect-led design-build firm where forward-thinking design meets the craft. Our studio is a collaborative space for architects, builders, and fabricators who thrive on the magic of a project—from the first spark of a concept to the final detail of completion. We pride ourselves on pushing boundaries through inventive thinking and future-proofing, thriving on the diverse creative challenges found in both our urban and rural projects—from high-end single-family homes and affordable housing to adaptive reuse.

We invite you to join us in pushing boundaries, blending sustainability with art, and creating spaces that resonate with our clients  lives across the Bay Area, Tahoe, and beyond.

As our Project Manager – Architect, you are a core heartbeat of our creative studio. We are looking for a leader who loves the design dialogue—someone who listens deeply but isn’t afraid to experiment with new materials or bold ideas. The ideal candidate will contribute to a rich design dialogue, enjoy experimenting with new ideas, and have a passion for interior design.

• Nurture & Lead:
  Mentor and guide our ambitious junior staff with a supportive, structured approach
• Design & Develop:
  Skillfully weave together architectural documents through every phase, ensuring design continuity and compliance
• Collaborate:
  Act as the bridge between our clients’ dreams and our technical consultants, ensuring every voice is heard
• Stewardship:
  Take ownership of the project journey, managing budgets and timelines with grace and precision
• Design development:
  Lead and design projects from kickoff to charette studio sessions through the lifecycle, steering client visions and document control to construction administration
• Architectural Artistry:
  Use technical expertise to design and draft documents that define every phase—from feasibility to final construction details
• Orchestrate the Vision:
  Harmonize in-house talent, specialized consultants, and vendors to bring complex projects to life
• Technical Stewardship:
  Deep-dive into feasibility research and code reviews to keep designs grounded and inspired
• Bridge the Gap:
  Lead permit processes and municipal approvals across diverse jurisdictions
• Anticipate the Details:
  Identify and resolve design intricacies before they arise
• Collaborative Synergy:
  Serve as the central hub for consultants (Structural, MEP, Civil, Geotech) to ensure a unified design voice
• Refine the Craft:
  Coordinate drawings, specifications, and plan checks to ensure deliverables are polished
• Visual Storytelling:
  Create presentation materials, renderings, and diagrams that captivate clients
• Build the Future:
  Collaborate on-site with construction managers and field staff to turn plans into reality
• Nurture Talent:
  Support the Principal in guiding the design team and mentor 8–10 designers, junior architects, and job captains
• Elevate Our Standards:
  Oversee the quality of in-house processes and documentation
• Master the Flow:
  Balance administrative and technical work to ensure efficient, cost-effective execution
• Details Matter:
  Focus on development of construction details
• Keep the Rhythm:
  Manage the project timeline and deliverables to meet or exceed client expectations

• 4 - 8 years of experience in an architecture firm, with 3 years as a Project Manager preferred
• BArch or MArch from an accredited program
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite
• Active listening, feedback management, and effective presentation of ideas
• Technical skills with an eye for design details
• Home-building, construction, or design-build experience preferred
• Driver’s license and clean driving record
• Excellent administrative skills; organized, detail-oriented, and good file management
• Excellent interpersonal and written/verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines
• Team player with collaborative mindset
• Positive, proactive attitude and growth-oriented
• Licensure not required but progress toward licensure preferred

• Job Type: Full-Time, 40 hours per week, in person
• Schedule:
  
  Monday to Friday
• Compensation: $120,000 - $150,000, based on experience

• Health insurance matching for group medical
• Dental insurance
• 401K retirement plan
• PTO at 10 days annually
• Paid holidays
• Paid sick days
• Architectural licensure support
• Professional development
• Office happy hours
• Team building and office outings
• Bicycle parking
• Ergonomic sit-stand workstations