Director of Architecture & Engineering / Principal Architect

Location: Cary, NC (Onsite)
Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Competitive Base Salary + Performance Bonus + Benefits

Overview

Ultimate Staffing is seeking an experienced and highly capable Director of Architecture & Engineering / Principal Architect on behalf of a well-established commercial construction and design organization.

This is a unique leadership opportunity for a well-rounded architect who can seamlessly integrate design expertise, technical knowledge, and operational leadership. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in leading projects, managing teams, and driving the successful delivery of integrated design-build solutions.

This role is best suited for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and can balance design vision, project execution, and business performance.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and grow a team of architects, designers, and engineering professionals.
• Establish standards, workflows, and best practices across design and documentation processes.
• Partner with leadership to support strategic growth and operational excellence.

Project Oversight

• Serve as lead architect or principal-in-charge on commercial projects.
• Oversee projects from conceptual design through construction administration.
• Manage project scope, schedule, budgets, and team utilization.
• Ensure high-quality deliverables aligned with client expectations and construction realities.

Design & Technical Execution

• Drive design quality while ensuring constructability and efficiency.
• Provide hands-on support using tools such as Revit and AutoCAD.
• Review drawings, specifications, and technical documentation for accuracy and compliance.
• Integrate architectural and engineering disciplines into cohesive project solutions.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong client relationships through effective communication and delivery.
• Lead presentations, design reviews, and project meetings.
• Support business development efforts including proposals and client engagement.

Construction Collaboration

• Work closely with construction teams to align design intent with execution.
• Address field challenges with practical, solution-oriented approaches.
• Ensure seamless integration between design and construction phases.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in commercial architecture, design-build, or related environments.
• Proven experience leading teams and managing complex projects.
• Strong proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and industry-standard design tools.
• Deep understanding of construction processes, materials, and project delivery.
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets, utilization, and project performance metrics.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Preferred:

• Licensed Architect (flexible for the right candidate).
• Experience working in integrated design-build environments.
• Exposure to or collaboration with engineering disciplines (structural, MEP, etc.).
• Background in commercial or industrial project types.

What We're Looking For

• A well-rounded leader who combines design, technical, and operational expertise.
• A hands-on professional willing to stay engaged in both leadership and execution.
• A problem-sol

  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, age, ancestry, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, disability, medical condition, genetic information, pregnancy, or military or veteran status. We consider all qualified applicants, including those with criminal histories, in a manner consistent with state and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act, City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.