Architectural Project Manager - Commercial

This position is 100% onsite at our Orange, CA office and not eligible for relocation assistance. 

Why AO?

Our culture is built on collaboration, trust, and the belief that great work happens when people are supported and challenged in equal measure. You’ll find a team that values:

• Strong relationships, with clients and each other
• A roll-up-your-sleeves mentality
• Continuous learning and professional growth
• Thoughtful design paired with technical rigor

At AO, you will work alongside colleagues who care deeply about what they do and are committed to building something meaningful together.

Benefits

We offer competitive compensation and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support our team. Highlights include:

• Medical, dental, life, and supplemental insurance
• Most medical plans fully paid for employee-only coverage
• Company-paid basic life insurance and long-term disability
• Retirement plan, health savings, and flexible spending accounts
• Paid vacation, holidays, and sick time
• Free parking and convenient transit access
• Employee discount program (OC location)

Position Overview

AO is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Project Manager to lead and deliver architectural projects from inception through completion. This role is critical to ensuring projects are executed on time, within scope and budget, and that financial performance—including timely invoicing and collections—is achieved.

As a key member of our team, you will collaborate closely with clients, architects, engineers, and contractors to drive successful outcomes and deliver exceptional client service.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all aspects of assigned projects from start to finish
• Serve as the primary client liaison, ensuring satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle
• Develop and execute strategic plans for successful project delivery
• Oversee project budgets, schedules, scope, and overall performance
• Direct and coordinate internal teams, including Project Team members, Project Administration, and Functional Area staff
• Ensure efficient and cost-effective project execution
• Manage project communications, documentation, and administrative activities
• Monitor and manage accounts receivable, invoicing, and collections
• Define scope of work, estimate fees, and prepare proposals and contracts in collaboration with administrative and legal support
• Coordinate technical and administrative project efforts to ensure alignment and quality outcomes
  

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, or related field
• 10+ years of experience as a Project Manager within an architectural services firm or related industry
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and other industry-standard software
• Strong knowledge of architectural design principles and construction processes
• Familiarity with building codes, regulations, and permitting processes
• Proven leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

Skills & Competencies

Communication & Documentation

• Ability to read, interpret, and communicate technical documents (safety rules, operating instructions, procedure manuals)
• Strong written skills for reports and correspondence
• Excellent teamwork and collaboration abilities

Mathematical Skills

• Intermediate to advanced ability to calculate:
  • Discounts, interest, and commissions
  • Proportions and percentages
  • Area, circumference, and volume
• Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry independently

Reasoning & Critical Thinking

• Strong common-sense judgment to execute instructions in written, oral, or diagram form
• Ability to solve problems involving multiple variables in standardized situations
• Capable of working with minimal supervision