Job Description: Architectural Associate
Location: Warragul (2 days office based, 3 days from home)
Type: Full-Time
Salary: $120,000 - $140,000 + Super

Our client is a dynamic and innovative architectural firm specializing in residential, commercial, public and industrial projects. They are seeking an Associate to join their team based in Warragul. The ideal candidate will be required to be in the office a minimum of 2 days per week. 

As an Architectural Associate you will have a proven ability to lead and manage projects across the residential, commercial, public, and industrial sectors. In addition to overseeing design and project delivery, you will play a pivotal role in expanding the company’s portfolio through business development efforts. This role combines hands-on project leadership, team management, and a focus on driving new business opportunities to ensure the continued success and growth of the company.

Key Responsibilities:
Project Management & Leadership:
•Lead and manage architectural projects across residential, commercial, public, and industrial sectors, ensuring alignment with client goals, timelines, and budgets.
•Oversee project teams, including architects, designers, and consultants, ensuring seamless coordination and delivery of high-quality design outcomes.
•Conduct client meetings and present design solutions, while addressing technical and aesthetic requirements specific to each sector.
•Ensure that all projects comply with relevant building codes, regulations, and best practices within the respective industry sectors.
•Oversee the preparation of detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents for each project type.
•Manage budgets, resource allocation, and project timelines, ensuring on-time and on-budget completion of all projects.
•Serve as the primary liaison between clients, regulatory bodies, and contractors, ensuring clear communication and client satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle.

Contract Administration:
•Administer construction contracts, including reviewing and negotiating contract terms, issuing instructions, assessing progress claims, and resolving disputes.
•Manage contract documents such as requests for information (RFIs), variations, and extension of time claims, ensuring that all documentation is accurate, compliant, and filed correctly.
•Monitor construction progress, ensuring adherence to the design intent, project specifications, and timelines.
•Liaise with contractors, consultants, and other stakeholders to address site issues, manage changes, and resolve project challenges.
•Conduct regular site visits to monitor quality of work, compliance with drawings and specifications, and overall project progress.
Team Management & Mentorship:
•Lead and mentor project teams, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.
•Provide guidance to junior architects and designers, offering technical advice and encouraging professional growth.
•Delegate tasks effectively, balancing team workloads across multiple project types.
•Conduct performance reviews, offering constructive feedback and identifying opportunities for skill development.

Business Development:
•Develop and implement strategies to drive new business in the residential, commercial, public, and industrial sectors.
•Establish and maintain relationships with key clients, developers, government agencies, and industry partners across these sectors.
•Identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking, market research, and client outreach.
•Prepare and deliver compelling project proposals and presentations tailored to the unique needs of clients in each sector.
•Attend industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities to raise the firm’s profile and secure new projects.
•Collaborate with the marketing team to create targeted campaigns and promotional materials that reflect the firm’s strengths in diverse project types.
•Forge strategic partnerships with contractors, consultants, and suppliers relevant to each sector to enhance project delivery.

Qualifications & Experience:
•Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
•7-10 years of experience managing architectural projects, with a focus on residential, commercial, public, and industrial sectors.
•A portfolio that demonstrates design excellence and successful project delivery across a variety of project types.
•Proven experience in business development, with a track record of securing projects and building long-term client relationships.
•Proficient in architectural design software (Revit, Archicad, AutoCAD) and project management tools.
•Comprehensive knowledge of local building codes, regulations, and construction practices across different sectors.
•Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to engage effectively with clients and stakeholders.
•Strong financial and project management acumen, including the ability to manage complex budgets and timelines.

Person Specification:
Sector Expertise: Deep understanding of architectural design and project delivery across residential, commercial, public, and industrial projects.
•Leadership & Team Building: A natural leader who can inspire and manage project teams, fostering collaboration and innovation.
•Client Relations & Business Development: A business-savvy professional with the ability to develop and maintain client relationships, identifying and pursuing growth opportunities.
•Design Excellence: Passion for delivering high-quality design solutions, with an eye for detail and commitment to sector-specific project integrity.
•Project Management: Strong organizational skills, capable of juggling multiple projects, timelines, and teams across diverse sectors.
•Communication: Excellent presentation and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with clients, regulatory bodies, and project teams.
•Adaptability & Problem Solving: Able to handle sector-specific challenges, adjusting project strategies while maintaining focus on quality and client goals.
•Networking & Industry Knowledge: Well-connected within the architectural and construction sectors, with the ability to leverage relationships for business growth.

This role offers a unique opportunity to lead projects across multiple sectors while contributing to the firm’s growth. If you are passionate about design and business development, we invite you to apply.