Planner / Project Architect – Housing & Development Planning Focus

Planner / Project Architect – Housing & Development Planning Focus
Rice Fergus Miller | Bremerton, WA | Hybrid / Remote (WA, OR, ID & MT residents)

Rice Fergus Miller is looking for a dynamic Planner / Project Architect who will lead the planning and early-stage development efforts for housing projects of all types—including senior living, market-rate multifamily, low-income and transitional housing. This role is rooted in feasibility, site planning, master planning and test-to-fit studies, bridging the gap between strategic planning and architectural design.

For nearly 40 years, Rice Fergus Miller has been committed to meaningful projects that build and strengthen communities. We thrive on creative collaboration and value the long-term relationships we build with our clients across the Pacific Northwest.

Essential Functions

• Lead feasibility studies for new housing/development sites: site capacity assessments, yield studies, market-driven program development and concept planning.

• Develop master plans and test-to-fit studies: propose alternative site layouts, building typologies, phases and density options that align with client goals and site constraints.

• Facilitate early-stage programming and planning discussions with clients and stakeholders—identifying vision, constraints, opportunities and strategic direction.

• Work across disciplines: collaborate with architects, engineers, cost consultants, jurisdictional staff and others to ensure planning recommendations are grounded in design and regulatory realities.

• Engage with local jurisdictions, community groups and stakeholders—prepare graphic materials, presentations and documentation for planning entitlement or design-review phases.

• Maintain a strong grasp of building, zoning and land-use fundamentals, along with cost / development feasibility, so that planning and design decisions are realistic and value-driven.

• Drive projects through early design phases: from programming and concept development into schematic design, supporting the seamless transition from planning into design production.

• Serve as primary client contact for early-stage planning and design issues, building trusted relationships and acting as an advisor on development strategy.

• Contribute to the growth of our Housing practice—bringing strategic thinking, process improvements and new business potential.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Urban Design, Planning or related field; Master’s preferred.

• Licensed Architect (or actively completing AREs).

• 8-12 years of professional experience, with a significant portion spent on housing, development planning or multi-family/residential projects.

• Demonstrated experience with feasibility studies, master planning or test-to-fit site planning (not simply building design).

• Strong understanding of housing typologies (senior living, affordable housing, market-rate multifamily, transitional housing), site planning, and cost/development drivers.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills: ability to engage clients, present concepts, explain planning rationale and synthesize complex information clearly.

• Proficient in Revit, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite; experience with Enscape or equivalent visualization tools preferred.

• Familiarity with zoning, land-use and entitlement processes; ability to prepare design-review or planning submittals.

• LEED AP, WELL AP or similar sustainability credential a plus.

About Rice Fergus Miller

Our 60 person firm is based in a LEED Platinum-certified re-imagined warehouse, one block from the waterfront in Bremerton, WA. We take our work and sustainability seriously—while also valuing balance, flexibility and a supportive culture. We’re proud of our B-Corp certification and being named one of Washington’s Best Places to Work.

We offer competitive salaries, flexible hours, remote work options (WA/OR/MT/ID), and a comprehensive benefits package (medical/dental/vision, life & disability insurance, FSA, transit program, 401(k) match, paid time off, licensing/certification reimbursement and professional development support).

Rice Fergus Miller provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants, and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind.

If you’d like more information about us visit: rfmarch.com, facebook.com/ricefergusmiller or instagram.com/ricefergusmiller.

To apply, submit your portfolio, resume and a cover letter via our website: www.rfmarch.com/jobs.

Salary : $79,935 - $105,578