Project Architect (Newport Beach)

Surlamer Investments is a private investment and operating firm based in Newport Beach, California, focused on real estate, private investments, operating businesses, and emerging technologies.We are seeking a talented entrepreneurial Project Architect to oversee projects from planning and design through construction administration and final delivery across commercial and residential developments. This role works directly with ownership, consultants, contractors, and municipal agencies. The ideal candidate combines strong architectural and technical expertise with practical construction knowledge and a thorough understanding of constructability, permitting, consultant coordination, and project execution.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop architectural concepts, layouts, construction drawings, and permit packages across commercial and residential projectsLead project coordination from schematic design through construction administration, including consultant management, permitting, technical documentation, and field coordinationCoordinate with engineers, consultants, contractors, and ownership throughout the design and construction processEnsure projects are functional, code-compliant, cost-conscious, and designed with constructability and long-term operational considerations in mindReview and coordinate architectural, structural, and MEP drawings, RFIs, submittals, and construction documentationVisit active construction sites regularly to monitor progress, quality, safety, and compliance with plans and specificationsCoordinate directly with contractors, subcontractors, vendors, and consultants to resolve design conflicts, field conditions, and unforeseen construction challengesNavigate local building codes, zoning ordinances, permitting processes, inspections, and plan check requirementsCoordinate with city officials, inspectors, and consultants to secure approvals and maintain compliance throughout the project lifecycleMaintain organized project records, communicate updates directly with ownership, and support projects through close-out and final deliveryQualificationsMinimum of 5 years of experience in the design and construction of residential or commercialBachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or related fieldArchitectural licensure preferredStrong understanding of construction methods, detailing, constructability, materials, and coordination during constructionConstruction administration, consultant coordination, and site observation experience strongly preferredProficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and related BIM or visualization softwareWorking knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, permitting, and construction documentationExperience preparing and coordinating permit and construction drawing setsAbility to read and coordinate architectural, structural, and MEP drawingsStrong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skillsAbility to balance design intent with practical construction executionLEED accreditation, OSHA training, or related certifications are a plusExperience in adaptive reuse, commercial-to-residential conversion, mixed-use, or ground-up development projects is highly preferredExperience working within a family office, private investment, or entrepreneurial real estate environment is a plus