About Handel Architects

Handel Architects is an award-winning, full-service Architecture, Planning, and Interior Design firm with offices in San Francisco, New York, Boston, and Hong Kong. We specialize in innovative, sustainability-driven solutions that shape vibrant communities worldwide. Our San Francisco office specializes in complex mixed-use and multi-family residential projects, from boutique urban infill to large-scale high-rise developments.

We’re a collaborative team of passionate Architects and Designers who thrive in an open studio environment. We share ideas, support each other, and design spaces that positively impact lives. Our culture values creativity, camaraderie, and growth—we celebrate achievements, work hard, and genuinely enjoy what we do.

We operate on a hybrid schedule: in-office Monday–Thursday, with optional remote work on Friday.

About the Job

Handel Architects’ San Francisco studio is seeking a Senior Associate Architect with 15+ years of experience to join our collaborative, design-driven team.

We’re seeking a well-rounded Architect who is an adept communicator and motivational leader and is comfortable managing multiple, concurrent projects. As a leader in our studio, we will value your insights and participation in shaping the direction of the office, to include business development, management topics, operations and resources, or other topics that interest you.

As a Senior Associate Architect, you’ll partner closely with the Principals and the Partner-in-Charge to guide design teams through all project phases—from feasibility and entitlements, through all design and documentation phases, and to construction administration and completion—ensuring design and technical excellence, and smooth execution. You’ll collaborate directly with consultants and clients, and contribute to shaping inspirational, sustainable architecture that enhances the urban environment.

This is a great opportunity for a motivated Architect looking to grow professionally, contribute to meaningful projects, and take ownership in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience with all phases of architectural and interiors projects; large scale multi-family, hospitality and/or mixed-use experience preferred
• Demonstrated success completing one or more buildings as a project manager
• Professional degree in Architecture
• License required; California license preferred
• Experience negotiating contracts, and extensive experience executing and coordinating the architect’s responsibilities under a contract
• Experience with risk management, including protection of both the firm and the client
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience directing a Project Architect and extended staff
• Ability to work effectively and collaboratively as part of a team
• Demonstrated success with making difficult decisions, especially in the presence of incomplete information or conflicting interests
• Strong organizational and technical capability, including demonstrated experience with preparing, coordinating, and issuing drawing and specification submissions
• Extensive experience with zoning and building codes, and entitlement and permit approvals. Experience with San Francisco or other California jurisdictions preferred
• Revit proficiency

Responsibilities:

• Serve as a high-level client contact; maintain a positive and professional relationship with the client for the duration of the project
• Coordinate contracts; recognize when contract scope has changed or been exceeded; and propose solutions to correct such situations
• Assist the client with developing their budget, schedule, and other project goals. Communicate these goals to the full team and hold responsibility for the successful execution of the project
• Oversee Handel’s financial performance on managed projects
• Assemble consultant teams and in-house teams and lead the full team through all phases to project completion
• Serve as a mentor for all team members, and potentially others in the office
• Research, promote and implement new building systems
• Participate in firm management and leadership activities, such as staffing resource allocation, financial projections, performance reviews, business development, marketing, attending and speaking at events, and membership in professional and/or community organizations

What we Offer:

• Salary: $130,000 - $150,000
• Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, Vision, Life)
• Competitive PTO401(k) with employer contribution
• Professional development opportunities
• Downtown office near Powell BART/Muni station
• Calm, collaborative work environment
• Year-end bonus
• Profit-sharing

Portfolios are required for this job application. Please upload your portfolio in Step 3: Attachments. Applications without portfolios cannot be considered.