Architectural Project Manager - Commercial

Position Overview

Our client is seeking an Architectural Project Manager to lead commercial, mixed-use, and multifamily projects from initial planning through construction completion. This position is responsible for managing project schedules, budgets, scope, client relationships, and architectural deliverables while coordinating internal design teams and external consultants. The Project Manager will oversee multiple assignments of varying size and complexity, maintaining accountability for project performance, design quality, and successful execution.

The ideal candidate brings a strong architectural background with demonstrated experience managing commercial building projects and working directly with clients. This opportunity is well suited for an established Project Manager, Senior Project Manager, or experienced architectural professional transitioning into greater project leadership. Success requires the ability to balance technical oversight with client engagement, financial accountability, and team coordination while maintaining a hands-on understanding of architectural project delivery.

Why Join Our Client?

Our client is an established, multidisciplinary architecture and design firm with a diverse portfolio spanning commercial developments, mixed-use environments, multifamily housing, and other building sectors. The organization combines the resources and project opportunities of a larger practice with a collaborative structure that allows professionals to work closely with clients, project teams, and firm leadership.

The company offers meaningful project ownership, professional development, and opportunities to expand responsibilities based on individual strengths and career interests. Employees benefit from mentorship, licensure support, flexible scheduling, and a hybrid arrangement that allows one remote workday per week. The firm's emphasis on internal advancement and cross-disciplinary collaboration provides an environment where experienced professionals can strengthen their leadership capabilities while contributing to substantial architectural projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural projects from preliminary planning and schematic design through construction documentation, construction administration, and project closeout.
• Develop and manage project schedules, budgets, scope, staffing requirements, and resource allocation to maintain financial and operational performance.
• Serve as the primary client contact, managing expectations, communicating project progress, coordinating decisions, and maintaining productive client relationships.
• Direct multidisciplinary project teams, including architects, designers, engineers, and external consultants, to maintain coordination across all phases of delivery.
• Oversee the preparation and coordination of architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents, providing technical guidance and production support when necessary.
• Conduct quality reviews of project documentation to ensure compliance with design objectives, applicable building codes, and established professional standards.
• Coordinate construction administration activities, including contractor communication, site meetings, document reviews, and resolution of design-related issues.
• Monitor project progress, identify scheduling or budget concerns, and implement adjustments to maintain project commitments and deliverables.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture or a closely related architectural discipline.
• Approximately 8 or more years of professional architectural experience, preferably within an architecture or multidisciplinary design firm.
• Demonstrated experience managing architectural projects involving commercial, mixed-use, multifamily, or comparable nonresidential building types.
• Experience managing project schedules, budgets, consultant coordination, architectural documentation, and construction administration activities.
• Proven ability to communicate directly with clients, manage project expectations, and coordinate decisions among multiple stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of architectural construction methods, building systems, applicable codes, and construction documentation practices.
• Familiarity with Revit and the ability to review and coordinate architectural drawings and technical deliverables.
• Ability to work primarily from the Columbus office or coordinate effectively with Columbus-based project teams from the Cincinnati office, including periodic travel.

Preferred Qualifications

• Professional architectural registration.
• Master's degree in Architecture or a related discipline.
• Direct experience leading commercial developments, mixed-use projects, or large-scale multifamily residential buildings.
• Experience managing ground-up construction projects, building additions, or substantial renovations.
• Hands-on Revit proficiency and experience supporting architectural production teams.
• Experience mentoring junior architectural professionals and coordinating multiple concurrent projects.

About J.Riley Recruitment

J.Riley Recruitment is a Veteran-Owned Professional Search Firm serving companies and professionals nationwide across Architecture/Engineering, Construction, Manufacturing, Energy, and Business Operations.

Since 2020, we have combined industry expertise, market intelligence, and disciplined execution with a direct, relationship-driven recruiting approach designed to align professionals with opportunities that fit their experience, goals, and long-term career interests.

Through the J.Riley Veteran Talent Network, we also maintain a dedicated connection to the Military Veteran community, helping experienced Veterans translate their military and civilian backgrounds into professional career opportunities.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace where all employees are valued and respected. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.