Design Director - Architect

Design Draw Build, Inc. is seeking a visionary Design Director with a passion for Design-Build. Our team of architects, builders, forward thinkers and fabricators thrive on the process of collaboration of design, craft, art, design-continuity through the entire process of concept development through building completion. Design Draw Build, Inc. is a growing Oakland based architect-led design-build firm. Our well-respected architecture firm is seeking an innovative thought leader to help direct a creative team in collaboration with the firm’s Principal. We traverse multiple typologies and scales, ranging from high-end single family to multi-family, commercial, adaptive reuse, and affordable housing. We pride our work by continuing to push the design boundaries using forward inventive thinking, sustainability, and future proofing, while integrating the client’s needs and navigating planning/zoning constraints.

Currently, DDB Inc. is designing projects in the Bay Area, East Bay and the Peninsula. Our team thrives on the diverse creative challenges in both our urban and rural engagements.

THE ROLE

The Design Director is a core member of the firm and the architecture studio. The Design Director is an individual who listens and contributes to a creative design dialogue, and who likes to experiment with new ideas, designs, and materials. In this role, you will manage multiple projects, from concept to completion, manage and mentor junior staff, delegating tasks to team members, and be client facing representing the Company. This role requires strong project management, emotional intelligence for effective team leadership and collaboration with a commitment to design excellence and the process of design-build methodology.

Successful candidates in this role will be able to direct, delegate and manage a team providing guidance and oversight as well as work independently. The Design Director is a team player, collaborator, manager and one who takes responsibility for project delivery. Curiosity, resourcefulness & self-motivation are essential. The Director reports to the Principal in the Architecture studio.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Direct, lead, mentor and manage a team of project managers, designers, job captains, designers, fostering an environment of innovation, collaboration and accountability.

  • Manages and oversees consultants, and vendors on projects.

  • Provide strategic design direction, encouraging creativity while maintaining high standards for design integrity and quality.

  • Management of complete architectural projects, including document control, client interaction, and construction administration.

  • Oversee the design process for multiple projects, ensuring alignment with deliverables, client expectations, budget and timelines.

  • Feasibility research and code reviews for architectural and construction projects.

  • Facilitation of permits and other municipal approvals.

  • Development of project presentation materials with the support of design staff, including finished project renderings and diagrams.

  • Coordination closely with construction directors, project managers and builders to facilitate the design-build process, ensuring seamless communications and integration of design during construction phases.

  • Supporting the Principal in overseeing the studio and directing the design team of 8-10 designers, junior architects, and job captains.

  • Managing oversight of in-house standards and quality control processes to improve level of project documentation.

  • Oversee administrative and technical aspects to ensure efficient and cost-effective execution of assigned projects through all phases.

  • Manage project resources, budgets and schedules to deliver projects on time within scope and budget.

EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS

  • BArch or MArch Required or related field

  • 10+ years of experience in an architecture firm, with 5 years experience as a Project Manager or Senior Manager role

  • California experience required

  • Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite

  • California Building code knowledge required

  • Design-Build experience preferred, or passion for Design-Build project delivery model

  • Driver’s license and clean driving record required

  • Excellent administrative skills, organized, detail-oriented, file management

  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both oral and written

  • Able to work collectively with a team, manage a team and be a team player

  • Able to work independently, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines

  • Fun, positive attitude, and pleasant to work with

  • Licensed Architects preferred

  • AIA or LEED certification preferred

Job Type: Full-Time 40 Hours per week
Schedule: Monday to Friday
Compensation: $100,000 -$130,000, based on experience

BENEFITS

  • Competitive salaries based on experience

  • Health insurance matching for Group Medical

  • Dental insurance

  • 401K retirement plan

  • Signing Bonus

  • 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 and shower in-house

    Ergonomic sit-stand workstations

To Apply: Please send a cover letter, resume, and portfolio to careers@designdrawbuild.com with job title in the subject line.

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