Project Architect

Umé Studio is a multi-disciplinary design practice in Oakland and New York City, founded and led by architect Mei-Lan Tan. We focus on hospitality: hotels, spas, wineries, retreats, bath houses—and the materials, furniture, interiors, and landscapes inside and outside them.

Current projects include a winery renovation in Carmel currently in Construction Administration, a 26 room oceanfront inn in Pacific Grove, and a large-scale bathhouse in Lombok in Concept Design.

We’re seeking an experienced and technically strong Project Architect / Project Coordinator to join our team on a full-time basis. The ideal candidate combines design excellence with project management fluency and strong construction knowledge. You will lead internal coordination, support design development, permitting, CA, and produce thoughtful, detailed documentation across project phases.

You should be deeply collaborative, proactive, and committed to meaningful work. This is an opportunity to work closely with the principal and contribute across all stages of a project, from concept through ca, as well as insights on how a small design practice runs.

• Lead projects from Design Development through Construction Administration
• Coordinate consultants including structural, MEP, civil, and specialty trades
• Manage internal project timelines, deliverables, and drawing packages
• Production assets like architectural drawings, details, and specifications that reflect design intent, design diagrams, project visuals like renders and collage
• Resolve complex building systems, code requirements, and constructability issues
• Maintain a high level of precision across plans, sections, elevations, and details
• Participate in client meetings and consultant coordination calls
• Translate feedback into thoughtful, technically sound revisions
• Support permitting processes and agency coordination as required
• CA management including review submittals, RFIs, and shop drawings, conduct site visits and support construction problem-solving, ensure built work aligns with drawings, details, and design vision

• 5+ years of professional architectural experience
• Degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)
• Strong proficiency in Revit (required);
  Rhino, Enscape, AutoCAD, and Adobe Suite a plus
• Experience with hospitality, wellness, residential, or boutique commercial projects
• Strong understanding of California building codes, permitting, detailing, and consultant coordination
• Deep experience in Construction Documentation and Construction Administration
• Strong graphic abilities and design communication skills
• Capable of guiding junior staff and delegating tasks effectively
• Clear communicator with a calm, organized, and self-directed working style
• Schedule: 40 hrs/week
• Duration: Full Time
• Compensation: Starting at $90K + based on experience, with benefits
• Location: Oakland, CA, (open to discussing hybrid/remote work with qualified candidates)

UMÉ Studio is committed to building a more inclusive and equitable design practice. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, identities, and experiences. We also hope to contribute to your career journey.