Senior Project Architect

Rice Companies is looking for a Senior Project Architect to join the team at our Sauk Rapids, MN, location. The Senior Project Architect is responsible for leading the architectural design process from concept through completion. This role requires a seasoned professional who can balance creative vision with technical precision, ensuring that designs meet both aesthetic and functional requirements while adhering to budgetary and regulatory constraints.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management:

Lead and mentor a multidisciplinary design team, which may include junior architects, designers, and technicians, ensuring high standards of work and fostering a collaborative environment.

Project Oversight:

Oversee the architectural design and development process for projects, ensuring that all phases—from schematic design through construction documents—are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

Client & Stakeholder Interaction:

Serve as the primary point of contact for Project Executives and clients, guiding them through the design process, presenting architectural concepts, and ensuring their vision is accurately reflected in the final project.

Technical Expertise:

Provide detailed oversight and direction on technical aspects of projects, including code compliance, construction detailing, and material specifications. Ensure that all construction documents are accurate, detailed, and constructible.

Project Administration:

Collaborate with project managers and construction teams to resolve design-related questions and issues during construction, ensuring that the design intent is maintained throughout the project lifecycle.

Innovation & Best Practices:

Integrate industry best practices and innovative solutions into the design process, leveraging advanced tools like BIM (Building Information Modeling) to enhance project outcomes.

Quality Assurance:

Certify construction documents and oversee the construction administration process, ensuring that all architectural elements are executed according to the approved designs and standards.

Qualifications:

Qualifications include, but are not limited to: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture.

Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in architecture, with a focus on commercial design/build projects.

Licensed Architect with active registration; NCARB certification preferred.

Proven experience leading architectural projects from concept through completion, with a strong portfolio of commercial work.

Expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM tools; proficiency in additional 3D software (e.g., SketchUp) is a plus.

Strong knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations.

Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey design ideas to clients and stakeholders.

Commitment to mentoring junior team members and fostering professional development.

Benefits:

With competitive pay, family-forward benefits and a little fun mixed in, Rice Companies works to build a team that's second to none. Medical and Dental Insurance (Select Employee Only Premiums are 100% Company Paid) Life Insurance 401K w/Employer Match Paid Time Off (PTO) Paid Holidays Career Training and Development The anticipated annual salary range for this position is $110,000 - $130,000 depending on experience.