Project Architect

Demark Studio | San Francisco + Santa Cruz, CA

About Us

Demark Studio is an award-winning architecture practice shaped by clarity, craft, and a collaborative design process. Based in San Francisco and Santa Cruz, we bring disciplined thinking and hands-on design experience to projects across California and beyond.

Our work begins with careful listening and a clear understanding of site, context, client goals, and project constraints. We see architecture as a process of defining relationships: between site and structure, challenge and possibility, concept and execution. Through that process, we create spaces that feel considered, specific, and deeply connected to their place.

Our work spans hospitality, educational, office, retail, mixed-use multifamily residential, and single-family residential projects. We are a design-oriented studio that values highly integrated, highly detailed architecture. Our process is collaborative, and we use deep design thinking to develop nuanced and unique design solutions.

What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a licensed Project Architect to join our team. You excel in fast-paced environments, can engage multiple projects at all levels of development simultaneously, and bring your own perspective and interests to the table. You value craft at every scale, from early design concepts to construction details, and you understand how constraints can shape stronger, more specific architecture.

This is a role where you’ll actually do design work. You’ll run projects, make design decisions, and create architecture that gets built. We value the ideas that emerge through true team collaboration. If you’re a skilled architect who wants to work across different project types and aesthetics while maintaining consistently high standards, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

Lead design development and documentation for projects from schematic design through construction administration

Coordinate and manage consultant teams across disciplines, including structural, MEP, civil, and landscape

Develop construction documents and details that meet Demark Studio’s high standards for craft and execution

Participate in client presentations and maintain strong client relationships throughout project lifecycle

Conduct site visits and provide construction administration support

Collaborate with principals and team members in design charrettes and critiques

Mentor and guide junior staff members

Navigate entitlement and permitting processes with planning and building departments

Contribute to the studio’s evolving design strategies across our diverse project range

Qualifications

Required:

  • 7-10 years of professional experience in architecture

  • Proficiency in Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite

  • Strong experience with construction documentation and detailing

  • Experience in construction administration and field observation

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously across various phases

  • Excellent communication and collaboration skills

  • Commitment to design excellence and rigorous craft

Preferred:

  • Professional architectural license, any US state

  • Location in or near San Francisco or Santa Cruz, CA, with preference for candidates who can collaborate regularly in person

  • Experience with Rhino, Enscape, or other visualization tools

  • Background in hospitality, restaurant, or mixed-use projects

  • Familiarity with California building codes and Bay Area entitlement processes

What We Offer

  • This is a full-time, salaried position with comprehensive benefits:

  • Competitive salary: $95,000-$125,000, commensurate with experience

  • Performance-based profit sharing and bonus structure

  • Medical and dental coverage stipend

  • Paid time off

  • Professional development reimbursement

  • 401(k) with 3% employer contribution after 1 year of employment

  • Hybrid work flexibility with preference for regular in-office collaboration in San Francisco and/or Santa Cruz

  • A studio culture that prioritizes professional development and growth

  • Real design responsibility: lead projects from concept through construction and see your work get built

  • Opportunity to work on diverse, award-winning projects

  • Collaborative environment where your perspective shapes the work

Our Culture

We place a high priority on professional development and growth, and we believe the best work happens when people are engaged, curious, and connected to the world around them. With offices in San Francisco and Santa Cruz, our studio is rooted in both urban and coastal California contexts, giving our team access to a wide range of project types, communities, and ways of working.

We draw inspiration from architecture, music, art, material culture, and the everyday details of how people live and gather. That range of influences helps us create work defined by craft, clarity, and intention. We’re serious about design, but not precious about it. This is a place where your interests and perspective matter, and where they can make the work better.

To Apply

Please send your resume, portfolio, and a brief cover letter explaining why Demark Studio’s approach resonates with you to cory@demarkstudio.com

Demark Studio is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.