Single Family or Townhome Principal Architect

Lessard Design Inc. (LDI) studio is growing which means we are looking for a Principal to grow with it. We are in search of a Principal to join our Single Family/Townhome Residential studio to be partnered and responsible for operations, staff performance, financial profitability, staff development and growth of his/her group, consistent with LDI’s policies and approved business plan. Oversee Designers and Project Managers and assure technical and financial performance of all projects to meet Quality & Cost Assurance standards. Oversee the Group’s organizational staff development and administer LDI’s policies and programs.LDI has been shaping the future of architecture for over 35 years. With a $25M Architecture division and a $20M Real Estate Development arm, the firm is renowned for its innovative designs and its commitment to creating vibrant, thriving communities.LDI’s diverse portfolio includes award-winning projects across the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, ranging from high-rise towers to garden apartments. By blending creative ingenuity with real estate expertise, LDI is redefining what’s possible in the built environment.This is a fully in-office position based in McLean (Tysons/Vienna), offering competitive compensation and comprehensive relocation support.Responsibilities Demonstrates leadership skills with ability and willingness to face challenges, solve problems, and motivate others, while maintaining effective relationships with customers by meeting or exceeding their requirements and expectations.Develop and implement the Group’s business planLead business development efforts by cultivating new client relationships, expanding existing accounts, and identifying strategic opportunities to grow the firm’s client baseDevelop strong ties with clients (as Client Sponsors) and professional organizationsIncrease LDI’s competitive positionReview and approve all group bids and proposals for thoroughness and accuracyNegotiate bid price, work scope and proposed terms (consistent with LDI’s policy)Recruit, train and supervise all of the group personnel. Select, train and develop understudies for all key positionsAdminister career development plans, quarterly Intern Development Program and annual evaluations for each direct reportAdminister Group personnel, including hire, termination, performance and salary evaluations, promotions, demotions, achievement recognition, etc., in conformance with company policies).Conduct Programming, Feasibility StudiesAssist in the design, production and construction administration so that accurate and coordinated project information can be consistently maintained (especially on stamped drawings prepared by others)Produce top quality designs that meet Clients’ expectations without impacting profitRespond to Construction Administration questions that require resolution by Architect, Engineer and ContractorWrite contracts and Proposal Agreements with the Project Managers to develop appropriate fees, achievable schedules, and accurate contractual termsAs a licensed architect, it is expected that you will stamp and seal your drawings. You will obtain, with Lessard’s assistance, additional licenses as necessaryDevelop all work scope, prepare budget, provide Quality Assurance and approve all work scope and budget for projects, subcontracts and all related addendums assigned to Group’s Associate Principals and Project ManagersWhen appropriate, review, assist in development and approval of all Project Management Plans of the assigned group.Approve all group’s billings, variances and recommend write-off and other credits to Chief Financial OfficerMentor Group management in all areas of management and executive: technical, administrative, financial and marketing management and executive. Function as “Senior Resource” to LDI staff-at-largeNegotiate Group’s contracts and budgetsDevelop new business to replace completed projects in conformance to the approved business plan. Develop new clients and maintaining assigned clientsMaintain the group’s target labor utilization and coordinate with other Principals, Associate principals and Project ManagersAttain “Key Performance Indicators”, as negotiated for the Group and selfSupport collection efforts, as requiredMust have a thorough understanding of state/local codes and accessibility requirements meeting state and federal standardsStrong knowledge of building materials, detailing, construction techniques, related engineering principles, and building codesQualitiesAbility to make effective and persuasive presentations on complex topics to employees, clients, top management and/or public groupsGood judgment and reasoning ability, enabling problem solving with the constant shifting of priorities and daily tasksSelf-motivated personality to take on projects and assignments without the need for the micromanagement of a supervisorExperience in negotiation and dispute resolutionAbility to manage time, deadline oriented, and takes initiative (self-starter)Proficient in spoken/written EnglishKeen observation and detail-oriented skillsDecision-making and documents checking abilitiesMust possess intellect, integrity, and influencing skills required to build strong professional relationships at all organization levelsStrong organizational skills and disciplined accuracy are requiredThe proven ability to exercise discretion and sound judgmentTrack record in successful single-family projectsStrong aesthetic sense and interest in the artsKnowledge of professional ethics, as applied to architectureQualificationsEducation: Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS), in Architecture, or related fieldArchitectural License: Current architectural license is required. Must have held an active license for a minimum of five yearsExperience: 15+ year’s experience in Single Family/Townhome Residential ArchitectureExperience working on projects for national homebuilder groups, with a strong understanding of their proceduresSoftware Proficiency: Revit, AutoCAD, Word, Excel, Microsoft Project, Photoshop and InDesignBuilding Type: Single Family/Towns ResidentialSingle Family/Townhome Design via computer and hand-skillsStrong knowledge of building materials, detailing, construction techniques, related engineering principles, and building codesTravel required for client meetings and business development