Project Architect

About us

For more than three decades, KPMB Architects has evolved in response to a changing world and worked to change it for the better. Guided by our purpose and anchored by our values, KPMB crafts design solutions that catalyze positive change.

As a full-service practice working across Canada and the United States, we provide expertise in building design, interior design, master planning, workplace strategy, project management, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable design. KPMB has designed and delivered projects totaling more than 31 million square feet in a diverse range of sectors, including education, healthcare, scientific research, arts and culture, government, corporate, hospitality, recreation, and mixed-use development.

With uncompromising rigor and close attention to the increasingly complex needs of the world around us, our diverse team devotes their expertise, passion, and creativity to solve today’s challenges and unlock new opportunities for our clients and the communities we serve.

The role / What are we looking for?

KPMB is seeking an experienced Project Architect to play a significant role in our projects, requiring in-depth knowledge, design details, and technical capabilities. This role will be responsible for maintaining KPMB’s high quality deliverables from concept through to construction, under the guidance and support of the Management team. The ideal candidate is intelligent, curious, resourceful, imaginative, and organized, with demonstrated experience in the construction process and administration.

Success in this role requires a natural orientation towards collaboration and teamwork, as well as the ability to work independently on deliverables. This position is best suited for an experienced Intern Architect who strives for design excellence and has the ability to work end-to-end on architectural projects. You will support the Management team in maintaining relationships and meeting the needs of clients, city officials, consultants, contractors, and trades. Ultimately, you will contribute to the development and execution of KPMB projects, ensuring the delivery of high-quality architectural solutions across a variety of project typologies.

Select key responsibilities:

Technical Expertise

• Lead site reviews and contract administration, including both office functions and field functions.
• Establish and verify all relevant building codes, planning, heritage, safety, and environmental standards through all project stages.
• Model consistency in the application of project and KPMB standards, while also reviewing the work of junior team members for consistency in the same respect.
• Make recommendations and/or resolve technical issues as they arise within the project.
• Execute drawing and specifications to ensure accuracy and completeness, and while also reviewing the work of junior team members.
• Champion the integrity and excellence of design details and technical solutions throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead site visits to monitor progress and ensure construction aligns with design intent and specifications.
• Identify and resolve construction-related issues in a timely and efficient manner, providing technical support and guidance to the construction team as needed

Project Coordination & Management Support

• Support the translation of the project design intent through the technical documentation and construction phases to project completion, ensuring adherence to KPMB’s quality standards and with design excellence.
• Work with the Project Manager to set priorities, establish and maintain a work schedule, and proactively report on the status of job cost control and scheduling issues.
• Contribute to the project risk assessment process. Proactively identify, communicate, mitigate, and resolve project-related concerns.
• Assist in the development of project quality plans and updates to effectively manage project quality, including phase milestone reviews.
• Work in collaboration with the Project Manager to manage/align design aspirations with client goals, project budget, schedule and team.
• Aid in maintaining comprehensive project documentation, including progress reports, meeting minutes, and project schedules to ensure compliance with contractual obligations.

Team Leadership

• Monitor, train and direct the work of junior project team members, focusing on technical quality and process standards.
• Act as a mentor to junior team members and support the development of their skills and provide guidance and direction, encouraging professional growth and development.
• Work closely with the Management team to ensure staffing aligns with the project goals.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within the project team.

Client and Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain and nurture relationships with clients, ensuring their needs and expectations are met.
• Act as a point of contact for clients throughout the project lifecycle.
• Engage with city officials, consultants, contractors, and trades to facilitate smooth project execution.

Innovation and Sustainability

• Stay current with industry trends and innovations, incorporating BIM Management, new ideas and emerging technologies into projects.
• Promote sustainable design practices and ensure projects adhere to environmental standards.
• Participate in post-project reviews to identify areas for improvement and implement lessons learned in future projects.

Candidate Profile + Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree or Masters’ degree in Architectural Studies
• A minimum of 7 years of architectural working experience, from Schematic Design to Construction Administration
• Experience in all phases of a project, including client communication, consultant coordination, design development, drawing review and contract administration;
• A strong familiarity with architectural and engineering standards and building practices;
• Proven experience working within Revit;
• Working proficiency in Rhino, BIM360, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Cloud, and MS Office;
• Strong project management skills and financial project literacy;
• Ability to work well in a collaborative team environment;
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Excellent organizational, problem solving and critical thinking skills;
• Ability to prioritize and multi-task while managing competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Salary Range Starting at $85,000.00.

Why work with us

Founded in 1987, KPMB Architects has evolved a diverse portfolio of architectural projects with a focus on building healthy, vibrant cities and communities. KPMB has grown to 100+ employees and is recognized for its highly collaborative, supportive, and with a wide variety of experience and education. Some of our team members have grown with the firm from the beginning of their careers to become leaders, while others have joined at various points in their career and bring new ideas and approaches. We provide a learning environment where teaching, mentoring, and collaboration is a part of our DNA. At KPMB, there are many opportunities to share your many skills, get involved in firm activities outside of project work, and contribute to our initiatives that give back.

KPMB is committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities in which we operate and serve. KPMB Architects is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected status.

For more information, visit: https://www.kpmb.com/

Please submit your CV and Portfolio to careers@kpmbarchitects.com with the email title "Project Architect". We will contact candidates whose experiences and enthusiasm best match the requirements for the role. KPMB Architects is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants without regard to age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected status.

Last Updated Date: 2024/Aug/06