Project Architect/Project Designer - SMMA

Join SMMA, a celebrated design firm with offices in Cambridge, MA and Providence, RI, as we seek a curious and skilled Project Architect / Project Designer to contribute to our unique design practice. This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals who are eager to stimulate both intellectual and creative growth as an architectural designer while gaining new perspectives working collaboratively with engineering colleagues within our uniquely integrated, multi-disciplinary methodology.  If you're enthusiastic about exploring ideas towards discovering optimal design solutions and working collaboratively within a dynamic and passionate team, we encourage you to apply. 

We are currently offering a few key roles with flexible start dates in November, December, and January.  In general, we welcome all candidates whether they prefer specialization within specific markets or enjoy working across diverse sectors. We value the depth of expertise from specialists and the fresh perspectives of those embracing our diverse market portfolio, which includes K12 schools, higher education facilities, workplace, federal government facilities, commercial development, and research laboratory spaces. 

Your success in this role will contribute to the cultivation of SMMA’s solid reputation of collaborative design excellence within the industry, and through internal research and knowledge sharing, raising the level of our collective intelligence. 

Successful Characteristics and Competencies:  

• Passionate, energetic, dedicated.  

• Ability to work independently and proactively.  

• Creative-minded and organized.  

• Flexible, proactive, and curious. 

• Enjoys engaging people and connecting. 

• Strong written, visual, and verbal communication skills  

• Timely and accurate information-sharing.  

Core Responsibilities: 

• Architectural design thinking and systems integration. 

• Crafting working drawings and specifications. 

• Ensure adherence to the design intent during the CA phase. 

• Serve as a technical resource across all project teams. 

• Project Architects conduct peer quality control reviews. 

Qualifications:  

• B-Arch or M-Arch degree.   

• 7-12 years of professional experience. 

• Licensure or in active pursuit, LEED and other sustainable accreditations a plus. 

• Experience using a BIM-centered workflow and digital tools. 

Please apply with resume and work samples/portfolio.  

Since 1955, SMMA has forged extraordinary relationships with clients, established an enviable record of success and designed award-winning environments. We are a diverse, integrated team of experts bound by mutual trust, aligned by shared values, and united in focus on a single goal—our client’s goal. 

As a uniquely integrated, multi-disciplinary firm, we bring a wide spectrum of expertise to our client’s challenges. We explore far beyond the standard architecture model and have designed our practice to embrace constraints and resolve complexity with intellect and elegance. To us, elegance is the hard-earned absence of excess, a perfect representation of the essential. We strive for our work to be meticulous in detail, craft, and performance. 

In our pursuit of the truest solution, there is no place for siloed thinking, rote repetition of style, or self-aggrandizement. We are generous with our ideas, discovery, and creativity. 

Yes, design must be beautiful inside, out, and beyond. But we strive for even more — for vital, forward-looking design solutions that provide the greatest positive impact to our clients, communities, and culture. 

We are not A, E, or AE. We are integrated and multi-disciplinary—a genuine design collective driven to solve complex challenges.  We are SMMA. 

Company Perks 

• Employee-owned firm with Employee Stock Ownership Program 

• Hybrid work policy 

• Mentor/protégé program 

• Educational reimbursement 

• Licensure and membership reimbursement 

• In-office educational events with internal and external speakers 

• Competitive benefits including paid time-off, company-funded MA Paid Family and Medical Leave, company-paid dental plan, company-paid life insurance, and 401(K) matching 

• Employee Assistance Program (includes confidential emotional support, legal guidance, and financial resources)