Architectural project managers oversee the design and construction process of a building project. They monitor the progress of the process, making sure it’s on track. They might typically develop, organize, and review building plans, ensuring that a project meets all safety and environmental standards. They also prepare construction contracts and interview and hire contractors for projects. An architectural project manager is creative, organized, and has excellent leadership skills. They need strong communication and analytical skills as well. They must have solid technical skills and be proficient with CADD technology.
A typical day for an architectural project manager might be in the office or in the field where they consult with clients, work on formulating equipment and labor cost estimates, ensuring a project meets environmental, safety, structural, zoning, and aesthetic standards, and monitoring the progress of a project to assess whether or not it is in compliance with building plans and project deadlines. Attention to detail, exceptional time management, and strong problem-solving and communication skills are required for this role.
Sample job description #1
ABC Company is currently seeking talented individuals that can join our team. We’re a growing, highly collaborative firm with a progressive, upbeat culture looking for a go getter to help us to the next level. Candidates should be self-motivated, team-oriented and adaptable to a fast-paced environment.
Duties & Responsibilities:
- Oversite of project team
- Work on multiple projects
- Participation in the design process
- Prepare reports and presentations for client meetings
- Development of schematic design, design development, and construction documents
- Review architectural drawings for federal, state and local code compliance
- Coordination of project team’s work
- Monitor progress of all construction phases
- Manage correspondence with clients, vendors, consultants, etc.
- Responsible for project schedule and budget
- Build and maintain client relations
- Assist with construction administration
Qualifications:
- Strong Communication and Design Skills
- Proficient with Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp and BIM360
- Wood Construction Experience
- Bachelor or Master’s Degree (Registration Preferred)
- 7 years minimum required experience
- Eligible to work in US
Sample job description #2
Job details
- Ability to handle multiple projects or one account with diligence and commitment.
- Review and develop construction plans requested by the client
- Oversee the work done by assistant project manager and draftsperson
- Oversees drafting, review shop drawings and respond to RFI’s
- Analyze and estimate project cost for labor, equipment and material
- Monitor progress of all construction phases in compliance with building plans and deadlines
- Manage correspondence with clients, vendors, consultants, building departments, landlords, construction team and other personnel involved in projects
- Review and research state and local code compliances
- Prepare reports and presentations for client meetings
- Execute site surveys on a need basis
- Manage people on the team and their expectations and review and approve time cards of the team in a timely manner
- Perform miscellaneous tasks as assigned by the Senior Project Manager/Studio Director/Director of Operations
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in architecture
- Minimum 6 years experience as an Architecture Project Manager in an architectural firm
- Minimum 4 years experience in retail architecture required
- Ability to interpret construction data, engineering calculations and drawings
- Proficiency in AutoCAD with strong 3D design skills required, with basic knowledge of Sketch up, Photoshop or Illustrator preferred
- Strong skillset of Excel, Word and Power point and plus
- Experience drafting retail or commercial construction documents preferred
- Must possess strong time management and people management skills and have the ability to handle the pressure of tight deadlines
- Must be able to travel on need basis
Sample job description #3
What does it take to be qualified?
- Bachelor Degree from an Accredited School or Equivalent
- 8-20 Years of Experience Post Graduation
- Project Experience is flexible
- Revit, AutoCAD, SKetchUP
- Excellent communication skills
- Proven ability to work collaboratively and with outside consultants or clients
- Demonstrated history of excellent Project Management
- Licensure/Registration a plus
What Can You Expect To Do?
- Work with production team to complete construction documents, coordinate with designers, consultants, engineers
- Project delivery from initial programming through to construction administration and closeout
- Manage multiple projects and clients at the same time, providing top-notch service throughout
- Complete project submittals, code reviews, and coordination of consultants
- Meet with regulatory authorities and parties as needed
- Review drawings, ensure accurate document preparation
- Manage project teams, deliver for the client, and see the project through completion
Average salary and compensation
The average salary for architectural project manager is $98,000 in the United States. Position salary will vary based on experience, education, company size, industry, and market.
| Location | Salary Low | Salary High |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix, Arizona | $97,450 | $131,850 |
| Los Angeles, California | $109,950 | $148,750 |
| Denver, Colorado | $91,600 | $123,950 |
| Washington, DC | $111,600 | $151,000 |
| Miami, Florida | $91,200 | $123,400 |
| Orlando, Florida | $84,100 | $113,850 |
| Tampa, Florida | $84,950 | $114,950 |
| Atlanta, Georgia | $89,100 | $120,550 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $102,450 | $138,600 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $110,750 | $149,850 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota | $88,250 | $119,450 |
| New York City, New York | $116,600 | $157,750 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $94,950 | $128,450 |
| Dallas, Texas | $92,450 | $125,050 |
| Houston, Texas | $92,050 | $124,500 |
| Seattle, Washington | $106,600 | $144,250 |
| National Average | $83,300 | $112,700 |
Sample interview questions
- How do you feel about working with colleagues across multiple disciplines?
- Why did you want to become an architect?
- Describe something you designed that you’re especially proud of.
- Tell me about a time that you needed to meet a deadline and it was successful.
- Where do you see your career heading in the next five years?
- What do you like about working in the architecture industry?
- What are some challenges you experience in the architectural industry?
- Who is an architect or designer you admire? Why?
- Can you describe how you delegate tasks in your team?
- Tell me about a time where your actions didn’t line up with your core values.
- What is your ideal workspace environment?
- Why did you leave your previous job?
- What programs do you like to use when designing your projects?
- Tell me about your favorite project you have ever been a part of? What part did you play?
- What is your management style?
- Tell me about a time you made a mistake. How did you handle it?
- What expectations do you have for yourself as an architectural project manager?
- Describe a time you received criticism from your supervisor. How did you respond to it?
- What is your least favorite project you have done and why?
