Project Architect

About GFF:

GFF is an award-winning, design-focused firm with a 40+ year legacy of creating memorable architectural solutions across Texas. With offices in Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin, we specialize in multifamily, mixed-use, office, retail, faith-based, civic, educational, and corporate projects. As one of the most knowledgeable mixed-use and multifamily design firms in the state of Texas, we have a deep understanding of various building types, applicable building codes, residential efficiency, unit configurations, and successful amenity design. Our passionate team of planning, architecture, and interior design professionals offers an energetic and stimulating work environment, competitive salary/benefits, and advancement potential at all levels.

About The Role:

We are seeking a highly skilled Project Leader (Project Architect) to join our Mixed-Use & Multifamily Studio in downtown Austin. This position will lead high-density multifamily and mixed-use projects from concept through project closeout, collaborating with our integrated teams of architects, interior designers, and planners. The ideal candidate has a passion for creating vibrant, contextually appropriate residential environments that enhance the quality of life in the communities we live in and serve in central Texas.

What You'll Do:

• Lead architectural design phases for multifamily and mixed-use projects, ensuring innovative solutions that respond to client goals, firm design standards, site context, and market demands.
• Establish strong client relationships and serve as primary technical point of contact throughout the project lifecycle.
• Create successful design solutions for urban infill sites and transit-oriented developments.
• Guide teams through complex entitlement processes, including zoning, permitting, and code compliance specific to multifamily/mixed-use developments.
• Develop and oversee project-specific sustainability strategies, including energy efficiency measures, materials selection, and healthy building standards.
• Lead full project teams including design architects, interior designers, structural engineers, MEP engineers, civil engineers, landscape architects, and other specialty consultants, fostering a cohesive collaboration across all design phases.
• Lead technical execution of the project, including exterior envelope design, waterproofing, life-safety systems, vertical transportation, and code compliance.
• Develop and edit project specifications to meet project requirements and industry standards.
• Manage project budgets, schedules, and resources effectively.
• Mentor junior staff and cultivate a collaborative work environment that values each team member's contributions.
• Participate in business development efforts, contributing to proposals, interviews, and presentations.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Active architectural license in Texas is required (or ability to obtain reciprocity within 6 months).
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience with at least 4 years focused on leading multifamily and/or mixed-use projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in designing for high-density, complex urban infill sites.
• Strong knowledge of building codes, accessibility requirements, and zoning regulations specific to multifamily and mixed-use developments.
• Proficiency in Autodesk Construction Cloud, Revit, AutoCAD, and visualization tools (SketchUp, Enscape, etc.).
• Experience with sustainable design practices and LEED or other green building certification programs.
• Experience implementing sustainable building strategies such as building site orientation, appropriate glazing, high-performance building envelope design, efficient equipment selection, and solar energy systems.
• Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to clearly articulate design concepts to diverse audiences.
• Excellent project management abilities, including team leadership, consultant coordination, and budget/schedule management.
• Thorough understanding of regional construction methods, materials, and detailing specific to mid-to-high-rise multifamily construction of Type I and Type III construction.
• Knowledge of unit design optimization, amenity programming, and multifamily market trends is preferred.

What Sets You Apart:

• Previous experience with award-winning multifamily or mixed-use projects.
• Understanding of financing structures for multifamily development.
• Experience with modular construction or other innovative building technologies.
• Active involvement in ULI, AIA, or other professional organizations.
• Experience with transit-oriented development or walkable urban design principles.
• Knowledge of universal design strategies.

Why GFF:

• Collaborative, design-focused culture that values innovation and excellence.
• Diverse portfolio of high-profile multifamily and mixed-use projects across Texas.
• Opportunity to work with a firm recognized for excellence in architectural design.
• Comprehensive benefits including health insurance, retirement plan, professional development, and licensure support.
• GFF fosters a studio culture that values both professional growth and personal well-being.
• Vibrant office locations in the heart of Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin