Project Manager - NCARB | Higher Education

Project Manager - NCARB | Higher EducationWe are a national integrated architecture and engineering practice committed to creating positive impact through thoughtful, high-performance design. Our teams bring together diverse expertise, bold ideas, and a collaborative spirit to deliver environments that elevate the human experience. From education and healthcare to science, workplace, and community spaces, we partner closely with clients to solve complex challenges and shape solutions that are innovative, sustainable, and future-focused. Here, you will join a culture that values curiosity, teamwork, and the drive to make a meaningful difference through design.Position OverviewWe are seeking an experienced Project Manager with architecture credentials and a strong background in higher education projects. The Project Manager will lead multi-disciplinary teams through all phases of design and construction administration, ensuring that projects meet program goals, schedule, budget, and quality standards. This role requires familiarity with NCARB procedures and licensure pathways, experience working with university clients, and the ability to coordinate design, technical, and administrative processes to deliver successful campus facilities.Key ResponsibilitiesLead project teams from programming and schematic design through construction administration, ensuring deliverables meet client expectations and campus requirements.Coordinate NCARB certification, reciprocity, or licensure-related documentation and support for project team members as needed.Serve as primary client contact for higher education stakeholders; manage expectations, present design deliverables, and facilitate decision-making with campus leadership.Manage schedules, budgets, contracts, and scope for multiple concurrent projects; proactively identify and mitigate risks to achieve on-time, on-budget delivery.Review design documents for technical accuracy, code compliance, accessibility, and constructibility; coordinate with consultants (structural, MEP, civil, landscape, etc.).Oversee procurement processes including preparation and review of RFPs, bid evaluations, and recommendation of award; administer AIA contract documents and amendments.Provide construction administration including site visits, review of submittals, response to RFIs, coordination of change orders, and punch-list management.Maintain quality assurance and quality control procedures; ensure documentation, as-built records, and closeout packages are complete and accurate.Mentor and develop junior staff, delegate tasks effectively, and foster collaborative team environments.Support business development and client relationship efforts, including proposal development, project presentations, and scope development for new work.QualificationsProfessional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch) or related field.Active NCARB certification preferred; candidates with progress toward NCARB or state licensure will be considered.Licensed Architect (registration in at least one U.S. jurisdiction) preferred.7+ years of project management experience in architectural practice; 10+ years preferred for senior-level candidates.Demonstrated experience managing higher education projects and working with university facilities, campus planning, or academic stakeholders.Strong knowledge of AIA contract documents, construction administration, building codes, accessibility standards, and sustainable design principles.Proficiency with Revit/BIM workflows, AutoCAD, and project management software; ability to review technical drawings and specifications.Excellent communication, presentation, negotiation, and client management skills.Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, track budgets and schedules, and resolve conflicts proactively.Willingness to travel to campus sites as required and to represent the firm at client meetings and public presentations.BenefitsFull Benefits Package - National/ CompetitiveHealthcare, Dental, Vision401K, Stock OptionsProfit sharing bonusesPTO/Vacation - 3+ weeksHybrid schedule - Flex hybrid/remote