Architectural Assistant Project Manager

Job Title: Assistant Project Manager

Company: Penney Design Group, LLC

Location: Bethesda, MD

About Penney Design Group: Penney Design Group is a national, award-winning architecture, design, and planning firm based in Bethesda, MD. We are a relationship-driven firm focused on delivering creative, cost-effective solutions for clients across diverse sectors, including automotive, mixed-use, office, and residential design. We believe that great design and thorough, complete working drawings are the best form of marketing, and we are seeking talented, dedicated professionals to join our team-oriented environment.

Position Summary: The Assistant Project Manager (APM) is a pivotal, hands-on operational role responsible for supporting the Project Manager in the planning, financial control, and execution of multiple small to mid-sized architectural projects. You will serve as the primary executor of tactical duties, ensuring strict adherence to contractual scope, schedule, and budget constraints while minimizing risk through systematic documentation.

What You'll Do

• Monitor and report on project financial health in real-time, focusing on Work in Process (WIP) and labor hour consumption.
• Act as the administrative gatekeeper to prevent undocumented scope creep by assessing requested modifications and drafting formal Change Orders.
• Execute mandatory, phase-specific Quality Control checklists to minimize design errors and ensure jurisdictional code compliance.
• Develop and maintain detailed project schedules and Gantt charts to track milestones and dependencies.
• Manage the rigorous administrative flow of all RFIs and formal submittals to ensure timely responses.
• Translate project plans into actionable, prioritized tasks for architectural staff.
• Estimate professional fees for new engagements and conduct site visits to monitor construction progress and design conformance.

What You'll Bring

• Education: A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) from an NAAB-accredited program.
• Experience: At least five (5) years of progressive, full-time professional experience within an architectural or related AECO firm, with involvement in the full project lifecycle.
• Software Proficiency: High proficiency in PMIS/ERP software (e.g., Deltek Ajera, BST, Unanet) and expert proficiency with digital markup tools like Bluebeam Revu.
• BIM Knowledge: Advanced working knowledge of Revit or AutoCAD for model maintenance and coordination.
• Core Competencies: Superior organizational skills, data-driven analytical acumen, and the ability to proactively solve budget or schedule issues.
• Communication: Strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills for coordinating between technical teams, consultants, and clients.
• Physical Ability: Capability to navigate active construction sites, including uneven terrain and ladders, and remain stationary for extended periods in an office setting.

Nice-to-Haves

• Architectural licensure is preferred; candidates actively pursuing ARE testing are strongly encouraged.

Compensation and Benefits

• Pay Range: $98,000 - $135,000.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; firm-paid STD, LTD, Life, and AD&D insurance; 401(k) with company contribution; and paid parking.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous PTO, 8 paid holidays, a week-long paid winter closure, "Summer Fridays," and remote work options each Friday.
• Other Compensation: Eligibility for the firm’s discretionary bonus program (mid-year and year-end).

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement Penney Design Group, LLC is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and applicants. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of their race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, ancestry, creed, marital status, genetic information, mental or physical disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement Penney Design Group, LLC complies with federal and state disability laws and makes reasonable accommodations for qualified applicants and employees with disabilities. If a reasonable accommodation is needed to participate in the job application or interview process, please contact us at info@penneydesigngroup.com.

Pay: $98,000.00 - $135,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Parental leave
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• architectural: 5 years (Required)

License/Certification:

• Architecture License (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Bethesda, MD 20814 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Bethesda, MD 20814: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $98,000 - $135,000