Project Architect (Residential + Mixed-Use)

Project Architect (Residential + Mixed-Use)

For more than three decades, KPMB Architects has evolved in response to a changing world and worked to change it for the better. Guided by our purpose and anchored by our values, KPMB crafts design solutions that catalyze positive change.

As a full-service practice working across Canada and the United States, we provide expertise in building design, interior design, master planning, workplace strategy, project management, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable design. KPMB has designed and delivered projects totaling more than 31 million square feet in a diverse range of sectors, including education, healthcare, scientific research, arts and culture, government, corporate, hospitality, recreation, and mixed-use development.

With uncompromising rigor and close attention to the increasingly complex needs of the world around us, our diverse team devotes their expertise, passion, and creativity to solve today’s challenges and unlock new opportunities for our clients and the communities we serve.

The role / What are we looking for?

We’re seeking an experienced project architect to lead residential and mixed-use projects, bringing in-depth knowledge, attention to design details, and strong technical expertise. This role is responsible for upholding KPMB’s high-quality deliverables from concept through construction, with guidance and support from the management team. The ideal candidate is intelligent, curious, resourceful, imaginative, and organized, with proven experience in the construction process and administration.

Success in this role requires a natural affinity for collaboration and teamwork, as well as the ability to work independently on deliverables. This position is best suited for an experienced intern architect who is dedicated to design excellence and capable of managing architectural projects end-to-end. The position will support the management team in nurturing relationships and addressing the needs of clients, city officials, consultants, contractors, and trades. They will contribute to the development and execution of KPMB projects, ensuring the delivery of high-quality architectural solutions across a range of project types.

Select key responsibilities:

Technical Expertise

• Lead and mentor project teams in preparing conceptual design packages, presentation, schematic design development, and construction documents across complex residential projects.
• Establish and verify compliance with relevant building codes, planning regulations, heritage, safety, and environmental standards across all project stages.
• Model consistency in the application of project standards and KPMB standards and ensure junior team members uphold these standards.
• Execute drawings and specifications to ensure accuracy and completeness and review the work of junior team members.
• Make recommendations and resolve both technical issues and design challenges as they arise within the project.
• Champion the integrity and excellence of design details and sustainable technical solutions throughout the project lifecycle.
• Lead site visits to monitor progress, ensuring construction aligns with the design intent and specifications.
• Identify and resolve construction-related issues promptly and efficiently, providing technical support and guidance to the construction team as needed.

Project Management

• Lead the translation of the project design intent through technical documentation and construction phases to completion, ensuring adherence to KPMB’s quality standards and commitment to design excellence.
• Work with the principal/partner in charge to set priorities, establish and maintain a work schedule, and proactively report on job cost control and scheduling issues.
• Contribute to project risk assessment, proactively identifying, communicating, mitigating, and resolving project-related concerns.
• Assist in the development of project quality plans and updates, including phase milestone reviews, to effectively manage project quality.
• Work in collaboration with the project manager to align design aspirations with client goals, project budget, schedule, and team capacity.
• Aid in maintaining comprehensive project documentation, including progress reports, meeting minutes, and schedules, ensuring compliance with contractual obligations.
• Assign and direct the work of junior team members, focusing on technical quality, design quality, and process standards.
• Act as a mentor to junior team members, support the development of their skills, and provide guidance and direction to encourage professional growth and development.
• Work closely with the senior management team to align staffing with project goals.
• Encourage a culture of continuous improvement within the project team.

Client and Stakeholder Relations

• Maintain and nurture strong client relationships, ensuring needs and expectations are consistently met.
• Act as the point of contact for clients and consultants throughout the project lifecycle.
• Engage with city officials, consultants, contractors, and trades to facilitate smooth project execution.

Innovation and Sustainability

• Stay current with industry trends and innovations, incorporating BIM Management, new ideas, and emerging technologies into projects.
• Promote sustainable design practices and ensure projects adhere to environmental standards.
• Participate in post-project reviews to identify areas for improvement and apply lessons learned to future projects.

Candidate Profile + Qualifications

• Master’s degree in architectural studies and OAA license or pursuing licensing.
• A minimum of 15 years of architectural work experience, covering all phases of complex residential and mixed-use towers from schematic design to construction administration.
• Experience in all project phases, including client communication, consultant coordination, design development, drawing review, and contract administration.
• Strong familiarity with architectural and engineering standards, as well as building practices.
• Proven experience working with Revit.
• Proficient in Rhino, BIM360, Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Cloud, and MS Office.
• Strong project management skills and financial project literacy.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Outstanding organizational, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities.
• Capable of prioritizing and multitasking while managing competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Salary Range
Compensation starts at an annualized base salary of $100,000.00 and is commensurate with experience.

Why work with us

Founded in 1987, KPMB Architects has developed a diverse portfolio of architectural projects that focus on building healthy, vibrant cities and communities. The firm has grown to include over 100 employees and is recognized for its highly collaborative and supportive culture, as well as its wide variety of experience and educational backgrounds. Some of our team members have grown with the firm from the start of their careers to become leaders, while others have joined at various points in their careers, bringing new ideas and approaches.

We provide a learning environment where teaching, mentoring, and collaboration are integral parts of our DNA. At KPMB, there are numerous opportunities to share your skills, engage in firm activities beyond project work, and contribute to our initiatives that give back to the community.

KPMB is committed to fostering a workforce that reflects the diversity of the communities we operate in and serve. KPMB Architects is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers applicants regardless of age, race, color, national origin, citizenship, religion, creed, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, or any other protected status.

How to apply:

Please send your resume and portfolio to careers@kpmbarchitects.com with the title "Project Architect: Residential". We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those selected for interviews will be contacted.

Transportation and bike storage:
A daily free shuttle bus between Union Station and KPMB’s office is provided for all staff who use the subway system or GO transit, from Monday to Thursday. Underground bicycle parking is also available.