View all jobs
Principal Architect- Studio Lead
Kitchener, ON · Architecture/EngineeringJob Title: Principal Architect (Architect of Record)
Location: Kitchener, Ontario
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Owner
Position Overview
We are seeking a visionary Principal Architect to lead and oversee all phases of architectural work—from concept through to construction—on a portfolio of internal development projects. This is a senior leadership role ideal for someone with a passion for design excellence, strategic project oversight, and team leadership.
The successful candidate will also serve as the Architect of Record and majority owner (51%) of a newly formed OAA-certified architectural practice. While this practice will be aligned with the development arm of a broader real estate organization, the Architect will retain full professional independence, in accordance with the Architects Act and OAA Code of Ethics.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
Qualifications & Experience
Competencies
What’s Offered
Why This Role?
This is a rare opportunity to lead the architectural vision of a growing development group while owning and shaping your own practice. You’ll play a pivotal role in building communities and influencing the urban fabric of Southern Ontario. Join a team that values creativity, progress, and collaboration—where your work will leave a lasting legacy.
Interested- Let's chat. Kvickerson@talentsphere.ca
Location: Kitchener, Ontario
Employment Type: Full-Time
Reports To: Owner
We are seeking a visionary Principal Architect to lead and oversee all phases of architectural work—from concept through to construction—on a portfolio of internal development projects. This is a senior leadership role ideal for someone with a passion for design excellence, strategic project oversight, and team leadership.
The successful candidate will also serve as the Architect of Record and majority owner (51%) of a newly formed OAA-certified architectural practice. While this practice will be aligned with the development arm of a broader real estate organization, the Architect will retain full professional independence, in accordance with the Architects Act and OAA Code of Ethics.
Strategic Leadership
- Define and uphold architectural standards, vision, and quality benchmarks.
- Align architectural strategies with broader development and business goals.
- Lead architectural design and project execution for mid- and high-rise residential developments.
- Manage project timelines, resources, and quality to meet scope and budget objectives.
- Oversee full project lifecycle including conceptual design, construction documents, approvals, and contract administration.
- Build, lead, and mentor a growing architectural team including interns, designers, and technologists.
- Set internal systems and standards to improve design delivery and quality assurance.
- Participate in hiring and onboarding new talent.
- Collaborate closely with internal construction and development teams.
- Liaise with clients, authorities, and consultants to facilitate approvals, permits, and construction progress.
- Conduct site visits and provide technical oversight during construction.
- Lead in the development of design presentations, renderings, and models.
- Ensure code compliance, sustainability, and innovative solutions in all projects.
- Champion use of BIM and digital tools to optimize workflows and coordination.
- Act as majority owner and Architect of Record for a new OAA-registered architectural firm.
- Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legal, and ethical obligations as a Certificate of Practice holder.
- Maintain financial accountability and contribute to business planning and budgeting.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
- Licensed Architect with the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA).
- 10+ years of architectural experience, including 6+ years leading teams and 6+ years working on mid/high-rise developments.
- Strong portfolio of built work demonstrating design and technical excellence.
- Expertise in Ontario Building Code, building systems, and development processes.
- Experience with contract negotiations, close-out documentation, and issuing payment certificates.
- Proficient in Revit, AutoCAD, MS Office, SketchUp, 3D Studio Max, and related design tools.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Demonstrated experience managing municipal approvals and working with AHJs.
- Experience managing or owning a practice is considered a strong asset.
- Entrepreneurial spirit with a growth mindset
- Accountability and ownership
- Collaborative leadership and team building
- Transparent communication
- Process-driven with attention to detail
- Adaptive to change and tech-forward
- Self-motivated and able to work independently
- Competitive compensation package
- Hybrid work model
- Health and dental benefits, RRSP matching, and HCSA
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Modern tools and technology
- Supportive and flexible work environment
This is a rare opportunity to lead the architectural vision of a growing development group while owning and shaping your own practice. You’ll play a pivotal role in building communities and influencing the urban fabric of Southern Ontario. Join a team that values creativity, progress, and collaboration—where your work will leave a lasting legacy.
Interested- Let's chat. Kvickerson@talentsphere.ca
Thank you for your interest in this job posting.
We look forward to hearing from you.
TalentSphere Staffing Solutions
talentsphere.ca
Canada
| Toronto: | 416.900.3435 |
| Calgary: | 403.910.9222 |
| Edmonton: | 587.333.7929 |
| Halifax: | 902.800.7808 |
| Kelowna: | 250.448.8880 |
| Montreal: | 438.448.4300 |
| Mississauga: | 905.919.3688 |
| Ottawa: | 613.783.1441 |
| Vancouver: | 778.807.9777 |
| Victoria: | 250.294.8095 |
| Winnipeg: | 204.285.3905 |
United States
| USA Toll-Free: | 1855.900.3435 |
| Dallas | 469.498.2002 |
| Los Angeles | 213.290.4030 |
 |