Principal Architect (Single Family and Multi-Family)

About Lessard Design

Lessard Design Inc. (LDI) has been shaping the future of architecture for over 35 years. With a $25M Architecture division and a $20M Real Estate Development arm the firm is renowned for its innovative designs and its commitment to creating vibrant thriving communities.

LDIs diverse portfolio includes awardwinning projects across the MidAtlantic and New England regions ranging from highrise towers to garden apartments. By blending creative ingenuity with real estate expertise LDI is redefining whats possible in the built environment.

Position Overview

LDI studio is growing which means we are looking for a Principal to grow with it. We are in search of a Principal or Associate Principal to join our Single Family/TH or MultiFamily studio to be partnered and responsible for operations staff performance financial profitability staff development and growth of his/her group consistent with LDIs polices and approved business plan. Oversee Designers and Project Managers and assure technical and financial performance of all projects to meet Quality & Cost Assurance standards. Oversee the Groups organizational staff development and administer LDIs policies and programs.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrates leadership skills with ability and willingness to face challenges solve problems and motivate others while maintaining effective relationships with customers by meeting or exceeding their requirements and expectations.
  
• Develop and implement the Groups business plan
  
• Develop strong ties with clients (as Client Sponsors) and professional organizations
  
• Increase LDIs competitive position
  
• Review and approve all group bids and proposals for thoroughness and accuracy
  
• Negotiate bid price work scope and proposed terms (consistent with LDIs policy)
  
• Recruit train and supervise all of group personnel. Select train and develop understudies for all key positions
  
• Administer career development plans quarterly Intern Development Program and annual evaluations for each direct report
  
• Administer Group personnel including hire termination performance and salary evaluations promotions demotions achievement recognition etc. in conformance with company policies).
  
• Conduct Programming Feasibility Studies
  
• Assist in the design production and construction administration so that accurate and coordinated project information can be consistently maintained (especially on stamped drawings prepared by others)
  
• Produce top quality designs that meet Clients expectations without impacting profit
  
• Respond to Construction Administration questions that require resolution by Architect Engineer and Contractor
  
• Write contracts and Proposal Agreements with the Project Managers to develop appropriate fees achievable schedules and accurate contractual terms
  
• As licensed architect it is expected that you will stamp and seal your drawings. You will obtain with Lessards assistance additional licenses as necessary
  
• Develop all work scope prepare budget provide Quality Assurance and approve all work scope and budget for projects subcontracts and all related addendums assigned to Groups Associate Principals and Project Managers
  
• When appropriate review assist in development and approval of all Project Management Plans of the assigned group.
  
• Approve all groups billings variances and recommend writeoff and other credits to Chief Financial Officer
  
• Mentor Group management in all areas of management and executive: technical administrative financial and marketing management and executive. Function as Senior Resource to LDI staffatlarge
  
• Negotiate Groups contracts and budgets
  
• Develop new business to replace completed projects in conformance to the approved business plan. Develop new clients and maintaining assigned clients
  
• Maintain the groups target labor utilization and coordinate with other Principals Associate principals and Project Managers
  
• Attain Key Performance Indicators as negotiated for the Group and self
  
• Support collection efforts as required
  
• Must have a thorough understanding of state/local codes and accessibility requirements meeting state and federal standards
  
• Strong knowledge of building materials detailing construction techniques related engineering principles and building codes

Qualities

• Ability to make effective and persuasive presentations on complex topics to employees clients top management and/or public groups
• Good judgment and reasoning ability enabling problem solving with the constant shifting of priorities and daily tasks
• Selfmotivated personality to take on projects and assignments without the need for the micromanagement of a supervisor
• Experience in negotiation and dispute resolution
• Ability to manage time deadline oriented and takes initiative (selfstarter)
• Proficient in spoken/written English
• Keen observation and detailoriented skills
• Decisionmaking and documents checking abilities
• Must possess intellect integrity and influencing skills required to build strong professional relationships at all organization levels
• Strong organizational skills and disciplined accuracy are required
• The proven ability to exercise discretion and sound judgment
• Track record in successful singlefamily projects
• Strong aesthetic sense and interest in the arts
• Knowledge of professional ethics as applied to architecture

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelors Degree (BA/BS) in Architecture or related field
• Architectural License: Required license in all states where projects are located
• Experience: 15 years experience in Single Family/Townhome Residential or MultiFamily Architecture
• Software Proficiency: Revit AutoCAD Word Excel Microsoft Project Photoshop and InDesign
• Building Type: Single Family/Towns Residential or MultiFamily MixedUse HighDensity
• Single Family/Townhome or MultiFamily Design via computer and handskills
• Strong knowledge of building materials detailing construction techniques related engineering principles and building codes