Architectural Project Manager

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. We are seeking talented, dedicated professionals to join our team-oriented environment.

Position Summary:

The Project Manager (PM) is a high-level professional responsible for the successful execution, financial management, and contractual integrity of multiple small to mid-sized architectural projects. Acting as the primary executive in charge of coordinating all project efforts, the PM directly owns project profitability by managing budgets, fees, and costs to guarantee target profit margins.

What You'll Do:

Manage all aspects of multiple small to mid-sized projects to ensure they are delivered on time, within budget, and to firm quality standards. Develop strategic project plans, including schedules, resource loading, critical path milestones, and quality assurance gates. Control project scope and profitability by aggressively managing scope creep and enforcing a rigorous Change Order process. Oversee mandatory internal Quality Control (QC) reviews to verify compliance with firm standards, building codes, and interdisciplinary coordination. Act as the primary client liaison, managing communication to ensure project scope and budgets meet client satisfaction. Coordinate project team assignments, including internal staff and external consultants, to maintain project schedules. Provide oversight and mentorship for less experienced Project Managers through all stages of project development. Manage the client invoicing cycle and assist with fee estimation, proposals, and contract preparation.

What You'll Bring:

Education:

A mandatory professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) from an accredited program.

Experience:

A minimum of eight (8) or more years of progressive, full-time professional experience in an architectural practice, with a proven track record of managing projects from SD through CA.

Fiduciary Ownership:

Expert ability to manage budgets, estimate fees, and track project finances (WIP, burn rate) in real-time.

Contractual Knowledge:

Advanced knowledge of the AIA contract suite and mandatory protocols for Change Order administration.

Leadership:

Proven experience as a primary client liaison with the ability to negotiate and resolve complex conflicts.

Planning Mastery:

Advanced proficiency in project management tools and methodologies for planning and executing complex project efforts.

QA Oversight:

A demonstrated commitment to enforcing technical standardization and Mid-Atlantic regional code compliance.

Nice-to-Haves:

Architectural Licensure (active pursuit of licensure is expected if not yet licensed). Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Advanced AEC-specific certifications, such as LEED AP or CCM.

Compensation and Benefits:

Pay Range:

$125,000 - $170,000.

Benefits:

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance; firm-paid Short-Term Disability (STD), Long-Term Disability (LTD), Life, and AD&D insurance; and a 401(k) retirement plan with a company contribution.

Perks & Flexibility:

Paid parking, generous PTO, 8 paid holidays, a firm-wide week-long closure between Christmas and New Year's, "Summer Fridays," and the option to work remotely each Friday.

Other Compensation:

Eligibility for the firm's discretionary bonus program, including potential mid-year and year-end bonuses based on individual and firm performance. 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. We comply with all applicable federal and State laws prohibiting employment discrimination. 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 the HR Manager at info@penneydesigngroup.com.

Pay:

$125,000.00 - $170,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Parental leave Referral program Retirement plan Vision insurance

Experience:

Architectural Practice:

8 years (Required)

License/Certification:

Architecture License (Preferred) PMP (Preferred) LEED Certification (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Bethesda, MD 20814 (Required)

Work Location:

In person