Senior Project Leader, Architect - Austin Office

About The Role:

We are seeking a highly skilled Senior Project Architect to join our Austin Office. This position will lead GFF’s complex commercial, high-density multifamily and mixed-use projects from concept through project closeout, collaborating with our integrated teams of architects, interior designers, and planners. The ideal candidate has a passion for creating vibrant, contextually appropriate environments that enhance the quality of life in the communities we live in and serve.

What You'll Do:

• Collaborate with the Principal-in-Charge (PIC) on fee proposal development, contract strategy, project schedules, budgets, and resource planning.
• Lead architectural projects from design through project closeout, ensuring solutions respond to client goals, design standards, site context, and market demands.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, resources, and overall project delivery.
• Establish strong client relationships and serve as the primary technical point of contact throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead multidisciplinary project teams, including architects, interior designers, structural engineers, MEP engineers, civil engineers, landscape architects, and specialty consultants.
• Guide teams through zoning, entitlement, permitting, accessibility, and code compliance requirements for commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use developments.
• Lead the technical execution of projects, including exterior envelope design, waterproofing, life-safety systems, vertical transportation, detailing, and code compliance.
• Develop and edit project specifications to meet project requirements and industry standards.
• Develop and oversee project-specific sustainability strategies, including energy efficiency, high-performance building envelopes, materials selection, equipment systems, and healthy building practices.
• Mentor junior staff and foster a collaborative team environment that values individual contributions and professional growth.
• Collaborate with Technical Directors and Technical Principals to improve project delivery standards, project management practices, and staff training programs.
• Identify and lead process improvements across project teams and the firm.
• Participate in business development efforts, including proposals, interviews, presentations, and client pursuits.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Active architectural license in Texas, or ability to obtain reciprocity within six months.
• Minimum of 15 years of professional experience, including at least 8 years leading commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use projects.
• Demonstrated experience with high-density, complex urban infill projects.
• Advanced knowledge of building codes, accessibility requirements, zoning regulations, construction methods, materials, and detailing.
• Strong understanding of commercial, multifamily, and mixed-use project delivery.
• Proficiency in Autodesk Forma, Revit, AutoCAD, and visualization tools such as SketchUp.
• Experience with sustainable design practices, green building programs, and high-performance building strategies.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills with the ability to clearly articulate design and technical concepts to clients, consultants, and internal teams.
• Strong project management capabilities, including team leadership, design management, budgeting, scheduling, and resource coordination.
• Knowledge of unit design optimization, amenity programming, and multifamily market trends is preferred.

What Sets You Apart:

• Extensive experience leading commercial, multifamily and mixed-use projects.
• Understanding of financing structures for multifamily development.
• Experience with modular construction or other innovative building technologies.
• Active involvement in ULI, AIA, or other professional organizations.
• Experience with transit-oriented development or walkable urban design principles.
• Knowledge of universal design strategies.
• Previous experience developing or assisting development of practice standards and training programs.

Why GFF:

• Collaborative, design-focused culture that values quality and excellence.
• Diverse portfolio of high-profile commercial, multifamily and mixed-use projects across Texas.
• Opportunity to work with a firm recognized for excellence in architectural design.
• Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, professional development, and licensure support.
• GFF fosters a studio culture that values both professional growth and personal well-being.
• Vibrant office locations in the heart of Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin.