About Handel Architects
Handel Architects is an award-winning, full-service Architecture, Planning, and Interior Design firm with offices in San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Hong Kong. We specialize in innovative, sustainability-driven solutions that shape vibrant communities worldwide. Our San Francisco office focuses on complex mixed-use and multi-family residential projects, from boutique urban infill to large-scale high-rise developments.
We’re a collaborative team of passionate Architects and Designers who thrive in an open studio environment. We share ideas, support each other, and design spaces that positively impact lives. Our culture values creativity, camaraderie, and growth—we celebrate achievements, work hard, and genuinely enjoy what we do.
We operate on a hybrid schedule: in-office Monday–Thursday, with optional remote work on Fridays.
About The Job
Our San Francisco studio is seeking a Senior Associate with 10–15 years of experience to join our leadership team.
We’re looking for a thoughtful, design-driven leader who excels at managing complex projects, guiding teams, and building strong client relationships. This role is ideal for someone who brings both big-picture thinking and technical depth—someone who can lead projects from early concept through construction while mentoring staff and contributing to the broader success of the firm.
You will play a critical role as the primary link between firm leadership, project teams, and clients—ensuring that projects are delivered with clarity, creativity, and technical excellence. You’ll lead multiple projects simultaneously, oversee design direction, and ensure that design intent is carried through all phases.
You’ll also contribute to the growth of the practice through client engagement, proposal development, and leadership within the office. This is a key leadership opportunity for someone who is passionate about design, invested in team development, and motivated to shape impactful, high-quality work.
What We're Looking For
- A collaborative leader who fosters strong team culture and accountability
- A strategic thinker with excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills
- A confident communicator who can represent the firm with clients and stakeholders
- A proactive, organized professional who can manage complexity and competing priorities
- A design-focused architect who balances creativity with technical rigor
Qualifications
- 10–15 years of professional architectural experience across all project phases
- Licensed Architect required
- Professional degree in Architecture
- Strong experience leading large, complex projects (mixed-use and multifamily residential preferred)
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and teams simultaneously
- Deep knowledge of California zoning, planning, building codes, and construction practices
- Proven experience in client management, including leading presentations and navigating complex discussions
- Experience negotiating contracts and managing project risk
- Strong leadership and mentorship skills, with experience guiding and developing junior staff
- Expertise in consultant coordination across disciplines (MEP, structural, landscape, etc.)
- Advanced proficiency in Revit required; strong understanding of BIM coordination
- Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite and familiarity with 3D modeling tools (Rhino, SketchUp, etc.)
- Experience producing and overseeing comprehensive construction document sets
- Strong QA/QC experience, including reviewing and redlining drawing sets for technical accuracy and design intent
- Experience with Construction Administration, including submittals, RFIs, and site visits
- Familiarity with sustainability frameworks (LEED, GreenPoint Rated, or similar) preferred
What You'll Do
- Lead multiple projects from feasibility through construction, ensuring design quality, schedule, and budget alignment
- Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for clients, consultants, and internal teams
- Guide design direction and ensure a cohesive vision across all project phases
- Oversee project staffing, schedules, and deliverables in collaboration with firm leadership
- Lead consultant coordination and resolve complex technical and design challenges
- Review and oversee all project documentation for quality, coordination, and code compliance
- Mentor and support the development of junior and mid-level staff, including formal reviews
- Contribute to proposals, RFP responses, and business development efforts
- Participate in office leadership initiatives, committees, and internal knowledge sharing
- Support construction phase efforts to ensure design integrity through project completio
What We Offer
- Competitive Salary
- Annual Discretionary Bonus
- Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life)
- Competitive PTO
- 401(k) with employer contribution
- Professional development and leadership opportunities
- Downtown office near Powell BART/Muni station
- Calm, collaborative, and design-driven work environment
Demo