Project Architect (K-12)

Overview

SSOE is seeking an experienced, driven Project Architect to join our growing Atlanta architecture practice. In this role, you will guide multi-disciplinary project teams, uphold the standards of design excellence, and serve as a trusted client partner across a diverse portfolio, with a focus on K–12 education. This K-12 Project Architect role is a unique opportunity to guide project teams from initial programming through construction administration prioritizing/emphasizing design excellence informed by your experience and passion for K-12 facilities and design.

SSOE – The Best of Both Worlds

At SSOE, our growth trajectory allows us to offer the opportunities normally associated with a large firmwhile embracing the collaborative and supportive culture often found in smaller firms. As a member of the SSOE team, you'll work on exciting and diverse projects for Fortune 100 clients around the globe, supported by the best technology for the task at hand. You'll experience our employee-centric culture that strives to offer a healthy balance, flexible working arrangements, direct access to leadership at all levels, and a continuous learning mindset. Once you experience the SSOE difference, you’ll understand the why behind our metrics:

• 28%- of our employees have been with SSOE for 10 years or more.
• 15%- percentage of employees with tenure exceeding 15 years.
• 99%- our CEO’s approval rating on Glassdoor.
• 98%- portion of our clients who say they would recommend us to a colleague.

AI and Innovation

At SSOE, we don’t just talk about the future, we build it. As a leader in industry AI adoption, we empower our team to work smarter by providing responsible access to the industry leading AI Large Language Models, vibe-coding platforms, and securely integrating advanced tools into every role. From day one, you’ll receive the training and support needed to leverage AI as a core tool for enhancing productivity, sparking creativity, and streamlining complex workflows.

Responsibilities

• Develop design strategies and decisions that reflect SSOE's design-first philosophy, integrating evidence based design principles, sustainability goals, and user experience considerations from day one.
• Lead and coordinate architectural projects from programming and schematic design through construction documentation and construction administration, ensuring quality, schedule, and budget adherence at every phase.
• Manage and direct project teams comprising of architects, junior architects, designers, and interns, delegating work appropriately, tracking deliverables, and maintaining team momentum.
• Serve as the primary architectural point of contact for project owners, discipline leads, and key stakeholders, building trust through clear, consistent communication and responsive service.
• Coordinate seamlessly with in-house mechanical, electrical, process, structural, and interior design disciplines to produce fully integrated construction documents.
• Lead interdisciplinary design review sessions and BIM coordination meetings; resolve cross-discipline clashes and technical conflicts through collaborative problem-solving.
• Mentor junior architects and architectural interns through formal review, design critique, technical guidance, and career coaching, supporting their progression along SSOE's defined career ladder.

Qualifications

Requirements:

• Bachelor or Master of Architecture from a NAAB-accredited program.
• Active Registered Architect (RA) license in good standing in at least one U.S. jurisdiction; reciprocal licensure encouraged.
• 5-10 years of progressive professional architectural experience, including demonstrated leadership of project teams and ownership of project deliverables.
• Proven experience in K–12 educational design, with specific interest in K-12 pedagogy and thorough understanding of current K-12 trends and concepts.
• Strong 2D & 3D graphic skills required to communicate design concepts both internally and to Owners.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present complex design concepts clearly to diverse audiences including owners, end users, contractors, and public bodies.
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and standard AEC software (AutoCAD, Bluebeam, Microsoft Office 365).
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple concurrent projects and deadlines in a fast-paced, client facing environment.
• Experience coordinating architectural documents with MEP, structural, and other engineering disciplines.
• Willingness to travel locally and regionally for site visits, client meetings, and construction administration as project requirements dictate.
• Salary Range: $90,000 - $115,000/year depending on location, education, depth of relevant experience, and any specialized licensure/certifications.
• Benefits: Includes comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, 401Kretirement savings plan (with company matching), opportunities for professional development and training (including support for relevant licensure & certifications), and generous PTO & paid holidays.

Preferred:

• LEED AP, WELL AP, or equivalent sustainable design credential.
• Familiarity with K–12 or higher education procurement processes (design-bid-build, CM at-risk, design-build).
• AIA membership in good standing.
• Experience contributing to business development, proposals, or client presentations.

Additional Perks:

• Dynamic Culture:Experience a supportive culture where you're an essential and highly valued member of our vibrant team.
• Exciting Projects:Work on thrilling projects from inception to completion and engage directly with some of the most innovative clients globally.
• Continuous Learning:Embrace a culture of perpetual learning where curiosity is celebrated, innovative ideas are welcomed, and your career growth aspirations are fully supported.
• Career Stability:A diversity of market sectors, project types, and geographic locations that help insulate your career from economic ups and downs.
• Career Advancement:Embark on a structured career journey with abundant opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Holistic Compensation:A holistic approach to compensation and benefits that supports your physical and mental health, encourages work-life balance, and empowers your career advancement and financial success.