Architectural Design Director of Operations - MW Architects LLC

Are you a creative and talented architectural designer looking for an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills and want to try something new? Join our dynamic team at MW Architects llc and be part of projects where we develop commercial, residential projects and investigate structures affected by fires, water or tree damage in our ever-growing Architectural Forensic department. Do you also want to learn to use new technologies like building laser scanning technology, 3d point clouds, drones and “Matterport” Doll house views, if so come join our team.

MW Architects is a design firm known for its wide range of designs and commitment to excellence. With a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, and forensic projects, we strive to make a positive impact on communities while delivering exceptional design solutions. We provide forensic architectural services in the DC metro area and beyond.

Job Title: Director of Operations

PRIMARY RESPOSIBILITIES & DUTIES

Key Responsibilities:

Operational Leadership:

• Direct and manage the day-to-day operations of the architecture office, including staffing, resource allocation (coordinating with team leads), and project management systems.
• Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure smooth and efficient workflows across all phases of design and construction.
• Lead the operational planning process, including establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) and performance metrics for the office.

Coordination & Review of Drawings:

• Review and redline drawings of all team members from various studios.
• Coordinate drawings to ensure constructability.
• Full understanding of construction details from repairs, new construction, interiors etc.
• If you have any construction/construction management experience this is a huge plus.

Project Oversight:

• Oversee the execution and delivery of multiple architectural projects, ensuring that project timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Provide strategic guidance and problem-solving for complex projects, addressing issues related to scope, schedule, and client relations.
• Manage and mentor project managers and design teams to ensure high levels of productivity and efficiency.

Resource Management:

• Coordinate resource planning, including staffing and technology needs, to ensure optimal allocation across ongoing and upcoming projects.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, continuous improvement, and innovation within the design and operational teams.
• Manage external vendor and consultant relationships to ensure alignment with project needs.

Financial Management:

• Work closely with finance and project management teams to monitor project budgets and financial performance, ensuring profitability and cost control.
• Lead the development of project budgets, financial forecasting, and cash flow management in coordination with team leads.

Strategic Planning and Growth:

• Collaborate with team leads to define and implement long-term strategic goals for the firm.
• Identify opportunities for operational improvements and implement solutions that align with the firm's overall objectives.
• Actively participate in business development activities, helping to expand the firm's client base and maintain strong client relationships.

Staff Development and Leadership:

• Provide leadership, coaching, and professional development opportunities for the firm's architects, designers, and operational staff.
• Ensure a high-performance culture, promoting team collaboration, efficiency, and accountability.
• Lead recruitment and hiring efforts for the architectural team, supporting the firm’s growth objectives.

Compliance and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, building codes, and other legal requirements in all architectural work.
• Oversee the quality control process for project deliverables, ensuring consistency, accuracy, and client satisfaction.

Technical Knowledge:

• Ability to generate and provide guidance on plans, elevations, sections, framing plans, and details in Revit for team members.
• Access site in safe and OSHA compliant manor per General Contractor or Clients requirements.
• Provide IBC/IRC and ADA information as necessary per project.
• Develop redlines and provide sketches as needed for details to be drafted by Interns or Coordinators.
• Perform Site visits to spot check measurements of existing conditions.
• Understand the Permit process.
• Organizational skills to keep track of expenses, payments and fees paid for jobs.
• On a track to achieve Architect licensure via NCARB tracking and preparation for Exams.

Knowledge, Experience & Skills:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, related field, or similar work experience.
• • Experienced understanding using Revit
• • Skills to use MS Office365 – Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook
• Develop and review structural layouts for various projects run structural calculations through StruCalc program or hand calculations.
• Full understanding of Point Cloud and integration in workflow.
• Import Point Cloud data into Leica Register360
• Manipulate pdfs through Bluebeam.
• Ability to walk in a careful safe manner handling the BLK2GO scanner and IPhone to scan jobsite.
• Capable to coordinate Matterport scanner on various jobsites with IPad
• Identify and execute a proactive approach to solving project issues including supporting active research to help foster creative solutions.
• Implement solutions in a timely manner.
• Analytical problem-solving skills
• Capability to manage time with the ability to organize, evaluate and prioritize multiple tasks, projects and demands to be able to work autonomously.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Full understanding of best construction practices in either wood or metal frame construction.
• Understanding of project budgets and timelines to be established and to be approved by the Architect.
• Understanding of the Historic Architectural Review Boards (HDRB).
• Work well with others at all levels; fosters the spirit of cooperation to create a collaborative team environment.
• Strong understanding of construction practices and can communicate with general contractors in commercial or residential project types.

*Required

Physical Job Demands:

• Ability to visit job site where you are may need to go up and carry a 6’-0” ladder.
• Climb into attic spaces where you may be required to crouch and bend.
• You may be required to carry, lift, or move 25 pounds on a job site to access portions during a site visit.
• Ability to drive to multiple job locations (DC, MD, NC, PA, WV, & VA)

Additional Information - We Take Care of Our People by Providing the Following Benefits:

Competitive Paid Time Off (PTO)

7 Holidays plus two flex Holidays

Flex work schedule (5) 8-hour days, (4) 9-hour days + (1) 4-hour day.

100% Health Care Coverage Through United Health PPO Program (Health, Dental & Vision)

401K Plan after 6 months

Costco membership

Gas card allowance per month

Short-Term, Long-Term Disability available

How to Apply: If you are a passionate architectural designer ready to make a significant impact on the built environment, we'd love to hear from you! Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you're excited to join our team.

Send your application to careers@mwarchitects.com.