Project Architect / Project Manager, Job Captain

The Opportunity

Studio Prime Architecture is seeking an experienced Project Architect / Project Manager (Job Captain) to lead custom residential and commercial projects from initial design through construction.

This is a full-time, in-office position in San Luis Obispo, CA. Applicants should currently reside within commuting distance or be prepared to relocate prior to starting. Remote and hybrid arrangements are not available for this role.

As a boutique architecture firm, we work closely together every day. This role is best suited for someone who enjoys variety, takes ownership, and thrives in a collaborative office environment.

You'll manage multiple projects at different stages simultaneously, balancing client communication, consultant coordination, technical documentation, and project management. Priorities shift, deadlines overlap, and every day is a little different.

The ideal candidate is organized, adaptable, and proactive. You're comfortable managing your own workload, communicating when priorities change, and moving between projects without losing momentum. You're someone who enjoys solving problems independently, takes initiative, and keeps projects moving forward with minimal supervision.

Who This Role Is For

You'll likely enjoy this role if you:

• Have 3 years of professional experience working in an architecture firm.
• Enjoy managing several projects at once rather than focusing on a single large project.
• Take ownership of your work and are comfortable making decisions and moving projects forward.
• Communicate confidently with clients, consultants, contractors, and jurisdictions.
• Appreciate the collaboration, variety, and responsibility that come with working in a boutique architecture firm.

What You'll Bring

• 3 years of professional experience working in an architecture firm
• Experience managing projects from design through construction
• Strong proficiency in Revit
• Experience with custom residential and/or light commercial projects preferred
• Experience with California permitting and building codes preferred
• Licensed Architect or actively pursuing licensure is a plus
• Excellent technical, organizational, and communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple active projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with clients, consultants, and contractors
• Ability to prioritize competing deadlines and work independently with minimal supervision
• Passion for thoughtful architecture and attention to detail

What You'll Do

• Lead custom residential and commercial projects through all phases of design and construction
• Manage project schedules, deliverables, and client expectations
• Coordinate consultants, engineers, jurisdictions, and contractors
• Prepare and oversee permit and construction document sets
• Review drawings for quality, accuracy, and constructability
• Participate in client meetings and presentations
• Mentor and collaborate with other team members as projects require
• Balance multiple projects while maintaining a high level of organization and responsiveness

Why Studio Prime?

Studio Prime is intentionally a boutique architecture firm. Our team is involved in every aspect of each project, giving you the opportunity to work directly with clients, consultants, and builders while making a meaningful impact from concept through construction.

You'll have ownership of your projects, direct access to decision-makers, and the chance to build lasting client relationships. We value initiative, collaboration, and people who enjoy taking responsibility for producing exceptional work.

Our projects range from thoughtfully designed custom homes to distinctive commercial spaces throughout California's Central Coast. Every project presents new design challenges, allowing you to build a portfolio that reflects creativity, technical excellence, and craftsmanship—not repetitive production work.

If you're looking for a place where you'll have ownership, variety, and the opportunity to grow alongside a collaborative team, we'd love to hear from you.

Compensation

$85,000–$120,000 annually, depending on experience, qualifications, licensure, and demonstrated ability. Annual bonus based on company performance.

Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a brief introduction to admin@studioprimeinc.com.

Pay: $85,000.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Architecture / Design: 3 years (Preferred)

Location:

• San Luis Obispo, CA 93401 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $85,000 - $120,000