Project Architect

RQ Construction is hiring a licensed Project Architect to join our Architecture team in Carlsbad, California. In this role, you'll work in a fully integrated design-build environment, leading the architectural coordination of primarily Department of Defense (DoD) construction projects from concept through construction.

As the Project Architect, you'll manage multiple projects while collaborating with architects, engineers, and clients across disciplines including civil, structural, MEP, fire protection, interiors, landscape architecture, and telecommunications/security. You'll provide technical leadership in design development, construction documentation, code compliance, quality control, and project coordination. Experience with DoD projects is highly preferred.

Since 1996, RQ Construction has been a leader in design-build construction for the U.S. Department of Defense. Headquartered in Carlsbad, CA, with offices and projects nationwide, we deliver fast-track, high-impact commercial and military facilities while offering employees the opportunity to build rewarding careers on meaningful projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate multi-disciplinary design teams
• Develop schematic designs and architectural construction documents
• Review drawings for coordination across all disciplines
• Prepare and edit architectural specifications using SpecsIntact
• Participate in client meetings, design reviews, and internal coordination
• Manage project schedules, milestones, and team workload
• Perform QA/QC reviews and Independent Technical Reviews (ITRs)
• Support RFIs, addenda, change orders, and construction administration
• Serve as the primary architectural point of contact on complex, multi-million-dollar projects
• Help deliver projects successfully from concept through construction

Qualifications

• Licensed Architect (required)
• National Council of Architectural Registration Boards certification preferred
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture
• 10+ years of experience in construction documentation for projects ranging from $30M-$150M
• Strong working knowledge of building systems, including civil, structural, MEP, and low-voltage systems
• Advanced understanding of construction detailing and technical design execution
• Experience with Department of Defense projects preferred
• Proficiency in using Revit and other design tools
• Demonstrated expertise from schematic design through construction documentation
• Familiarity with building codes, construction practices, and methodologies
• Knowledge of Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) standards
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational abilities
• Willingness to travel approximately 20-30%

Software Skills: Autodesk Revit, Adobe Acrobat, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, Bluebeam Revu, SpecsIntact, and Microsoft Office

Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $100,000-$130,000 annually (based on experience, education, and qualifications)

• Hybrid schedule (in-office Monday-Wednesday; optional remote (Thursday-Friday)
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) with competitive employer match
• Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and personal days
• Professional development support, including continuing education and licensure renewal reimbursement

Shape complex projects from vision to reality. Join RQ, apply today!

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, gender (including gender identity and gender expression), religion (all aspects of religious beliefs, observance or practice, including religious dress or grooming practices) marital status, registered domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition (including cancer or a record or history of cancer, and genetic characteristics), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding or related medical condition), genetic information, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other basis or status protected by federal, state, or local law or ordinance or regulation.

All candidates considered for hire must provide evidence of identity and U.S. work authorization at the time of hire. Additionally, all candidates must successfully pass a drug screening and commercial criminal background check, including a stricter Department of Defense background check, for access to job site at military base (if applicable for position being hired for).