Project Architect / Architect IV - PreK-12 & Higher Education

Architect IV Position HED is seeking an experienced Architect IV to join our growing PreK–12 Education and Higher Education practice in the Los Angeles area. This senior-level role leads the technical delivery of educational projects from planning through construction, including consultant coordination, project documentation, regulatory approvals, and construction administration, with a proven record of delivering technically sound work within the PreK–12 and Higher Education market sector. The ideal candidate has extensive experience delivering California PreK–12 and Higher Education facilities and a strong understanding of Division of the State Architect (DSA) requirements, California building codes, and educational facility standards. As a technical leader, you will also mentor project teams, support quality initiatives, and serve as Architect of Record when designated. HED Culture At HED, we believe great design has the power to improve lives. Our integrated teams of architects, engineers, planners, and designers collaborate to create inspiring learning environments that support student success and strengthen communities. Our culture is guided by six core values: Do It as a Team Be You With Us Make a Mark Embrace Change Thrive With Growth Strive for Performance Work Environment: We embrace a hybrid model that promotes both autonomy and collaboration, including the freedom to work from home, with regular in-office days to connect with teammates and build culture. The office is a professional, open-space environment for collaborative and independent work. When you join HED, you'll have the opportunity to: Design impactful educational environments that serve students, educators, and communities Collaborate across disciplines to deliver thoughtful, sustainable, and high-performing solutions Partner with school districts, educational stakeholders, consultants, and regulatory agencies to achieve successful project outcomes Contribute to a culture that values mentorship, professional growth, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning Work in a flexible hybrid environment that balances autonomy with meaningful in-person collaboration Be part of a team committed to design excellence, technical rigor, and creating lasting positive impact Responsibilities Lead the technical planning and delivery of significant PreK–12 educational projects throughout the Design and Construction phases Develop and oversee coordinated construction documents and technical quality Manage a Discipline Work Plan and coordinate project teams, consultants, and engineering disciplines for seamless project delivery Collaborate with school districts, educational stakeholders, and project partners Lead coordination of DSA approvals and interactions with all regulatory agencies Ensure project documentation complies with DSA requirements, California Building Code, accessibility requirements, and applicable educational facility standards Lead participation in client meetings, presentations, stakeholder workshops, and community engagement activities Conduct building systems, materials, and product research to support informed design decisions and contribute to firmwide technical resources Lead construction administration activities, including RFIs, submittals, and field observations Serve as Architect of Record Mentor team members and support technical excellence across the practice Requirements Professional degree in Architecture Active California Architectural License required Minimum of 10 years of architectural experience LEED Accreditation and NCARB certification preferred Demonstrated experience delivering California PreK–12 educational projects Strong knowledge of DSA requirements, California Building Code, and accessibility regulations Experience collaborating with school districts and public-sector stakeholders. Proficiency in Revit required Experience with Revizto, UpCodes, and RIB SpecLink is a plus Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills Passion for mentoring and motivating others with a commitment to design quality, technical excellence, and continuous improvement Physical Requirements Ability to travel to project sites and client meetings Ability to work at a computer for extended periods. Ability to review drawings, specifications, and digital documents. Effective written, verbal, and visual communication skills. Other Duties: Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.