Associate Principal, Multi-Family Studio

Job Description

Job Description

About the Company

Lessard Design Inc. (LDI) has been shaping the future of architecture for over 35 years. With a $25M Architecture division and a $20M Real Estate Development arm, the firm is renowned for its innovative designs and its commitment to creating vibrant, thriving communities. LDI’s diverse portfolio includes award-winning projects across the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, ranging from high-rise towers to garden apartments. By blending creative ingenuity with real estate expertise, LDI is redefining what’s possible in the built environment.

Reporting to the Principal, the Associate Principal of the Multi-Family Studio is responsible for operations, staff performance, financial profitability, staff development and growth of his/her group, consistent with LDI’s polices and approved business plan. Associate Principals will oversee the group’s Designers and Project Managers and assure technical and financial performance of all projects to meet quality & cost assurance standards. Additionally, they will oversee the group’s organizational staff development and administer LDI’s policies and programs.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead project programming, staffing, and coordination of contract resources to meet schedules and profitability targets.
• Monitor client satisfaction, productivity, progress, and budget performance.
• Stamp and seal drawings as a licensed architect; obtain additional licenses with company support as needed.
• In coordination with the Group Principal, review and approve all project work for technical accuracy and QA/QC compliance.
• Mentor team members and serve as a senior technical resource, train Project Managers and Job Captains in contract and fiscal management.
• Provide guidance on design, production, and construction administration issues.
• Develop scopes, budgets, and subcontracts for own projects; review and approve those prepared by Project Managers.
• Approve Project Management Plans prior to project initiation.
• Manage billing for own projects and support team billing as needed.
• Lead business development efforts with assigned clients and oversee proposal preparation.
• Ensure labor utilization targets and performance metrics are met for self and team.
• Oversee career development, intern programs, and performance evaluations for direct reports.
• Conduct performance and salary reviews; recommend personnel actions to the Group Principal.
• Approve timesheets and expense reports; support collection efforts as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.

QUALITIES

• Leadership & Initiative : Demonstrates strong leadership, problem-solving, and motivational skills; self-starter who thrives without micromanagement.
• Code & Compliance Knowledge : Deep understanding of state/local building codes, accessibility standards, and professional ethics in architecture.
• Communication & Presentation : Skilled in persuasive communication with clients, teams, and public audiences; fluent in spoken and written English.
• Judgment & Decision-Making : Exercises sound judgment, discretion, and reasoning in dynamic, deadline-driven environments.
• Detail-Oriented & Organized : Highly observant with strong attention to detail, document review skills, and disciplined organizational habits.
• Relationship Building : Builds trust and influence across all organizational levels; experienced in negotiation and conflict resolution.
• Creative & Aesthetic Sensibility : Possesses a strong aesthetic sense and a genuine interest in the arts.

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

This position will require up to 50% local travel

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES

This position will be responsible for the supervision of team members within their group.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

Education: Bachelor’s Degree (BA/BS), preferably in Architecture, or related field

Architectural License: Required license in all states where projects are located

Experience: 12+ years of experience with two years of architectural group management experience

Software Proficiency: Advanced skills in REVIT, MS Office required, Photoshop and/or InDesign a plus

Building Type: Multi-Family Residential