Studio Design Leader / Associate Principal / Principal
About the Opportunity
This is not simply a senior designer position. This position serves as a key member of the studio leadership team and will work closely alongside the Studio Leader as a trusted partner in shaping the future direction of the practice.
The role offers a unique opportunity to influence studio culture, mentor emerging talent, elevate design excellence, and help drive strategic growth across multiple market sectors.
Depending on experience, the position may be hired at the Associate Principal, AVP, Principal, or Senior Design Principal level.
The Role
This individual will play a highly visible leadership role within the studio and broader organization.
Key responsibilities include:
- Providing design leadership across multiple projects and pursuits
- Mentoring and developing architects, designers, and project teams
- Helping guide staffing, team development, and studio culture
- Collaborating closely with studio leadership on strategic initiatives
- Participating in business development efforts and client engagement
- Supporting project pursuits, presentations, and interviews
- Promoting design excellence and innovation across the practice
- Contributing to firmwide design leadership initiatives
- Helping shape the future growth and direction of the San Francisco office
Team Leadership
This role serves as a key leader within the studio and will provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to approximately 15-20 team members, including:
- Architectural Designers
- Project Coordinators
- Project Managers
- Senior Project Managers
- Emerging Professionals
The ideal candidate is someone who genuinely enjoys developing people, building strong teams, and creating a positive studio culture.
What They're Looking For
The ideal candidate brings a rare combination of:
Design Leadership
- Strong architectural design background
- Ability to lead design conversations and inspire teams
- Exceptional portfolio demonstrating design excellence
People Leadership
- Proven experience managing and mentoring teams
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Ability to foster collaboration and professional growth
Business Acumen
- Comfortable participating in client-facing activities
- Experience supporting business development efforts
- Established industry relationships and professional network preferred
Entrepreneurial Mindset
- Comfortable helping build processes and structure
- Thrives in evolving environments
- Excited by the opportunity to help shape the future of a studio
Project Experience
The San Francisco studio has an established reputation in luxury hospitality and continues to pursue high-profile hospitality work.
Additional project experience that would be valuable includes:
- Mixed-Use
- Multifamily Residential
- Student Housing
- Workplace
- Life Sciences
- Civic / Institutional
- Urban Design
Candidates do not need experience across all sectors; however, a diverse project background is a great plus.
Qualifications
- Licensed Architect strongly preferred
- Candidates actively pursuing licensure will also be considered
- 15+ years of professional experience preferred
- Demonstrated experience leading project teams and mentoring staff
- Strong design portfolio and presentation skills
- Experience working within complex project environments
- Ability to work closely with studio leadership in a highly collaborative setting
Location & Culture
This position is based in San Francisco and requires a strong in-office presence, particularly during the initial transition period.
The firm values collaboration, mentorship, and hands-on leadership. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys being actively engaged with their team and contributing to the day-to-day life of the studio.
Compensation: Approximately $173,000-$220,000+ base salary, with flexibility based on experience, leadership background, licensure, and overall fit.
FAQs
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