Principal in Charge – Education - San Jose, CA
About the Role: Our client is a mission-driven design firm and are seeking an experienced Principal in Charge to lead their San Jose education studio. The firm specializes in projects that positively impact communities, with a strong focus on education, civic, and healthcare facilities. This senior leadership role combines oversight of complex projects, business development, and team mentorship, with a focus on fostering client relationships and ensuring excellence across all phases of design and delivery.
Why Join: This organization operates on an employee-owned model, offering equity participation after one year and creating opportunities for long-term financial growth. The firm values collaboration, flexibility, and professional development, while supporting wellness initiatives, licensing, mentorship, and volunteerism. Leaders are encouraged to engage with communities and help grow the firm’s visibility and impact through industry events, publications, and presentations.
Position Summary: The Principal in Charge will be responsible for overseeing multiple projects, leading teams, managing budgets and schedules, and maintaining strong client relationships. This role involves directing project work, guiding staff, and ensuring design and documentation quality. The position also requires active participation in business development, marketing, and community engagement to maintain a robust pipeline of work for the studio.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Client Engagement
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Lead pursuit of new projects, managing client relationships, and identifying opportunities for repeat work
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Generate an average of $5M in new contracts annually through client development and marketing efforts
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Guide project teams in Go/No-Go decisions for pursuits and ensure smooth transition to project management staff
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Represent the firm publicly through presentations, publications, and participation in industry events
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Negotiate contracts, prepare proposals, and ensure client requests are appropriately billed
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Maintain strong relationships with agency leaders and clients to support long-term growth
Leadership & Team Management
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Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to project teams and staff
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Promote firm culture and values internally and externally
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Coordinate with other studio leaders to align on firm-wide initiatives
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Establish work plans, allocate resources effectively, and monitor performance against goals
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Resolve staffing and project-related issues while ensuring team productivity and morale
Project Management Oversight
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Oversee all phases of project delivery, from pre-design through construction
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Manage budgets, schedules, staffing, and profitability across multiple projects
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Ensure design quality, technical compliance, and coordination of project documents
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Review specifications, cost estimates, and value analyses
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Address plan check, regulatory, and client approval issues
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Support design teams with charettes, critiques, and reviews while maintaining design intent
Qualifications
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Professional degree in Architecture from an accredited university
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Licensed architect, preferably in California
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12+ years of experience managing architectural projects in education (PreK-12 or higher education)
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Minimum 5 years’ experience working with school districts, private schools, higher education, or government entities
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At least 2 years in a senior leadership role with responsibility for project teams and business development
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Strong leadership, decision-making, and communication skills
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Ability to be on-site in the San Jose studio 3 days per week, with remote flexibility as needed
Location & Schedule
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San Jose, CA
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Hybrid schedule: 3 days in-office, remote flexibility on other days
