What Does an Architectural Project Manager Do?
Architectural project managers lead the design and construction processes for building projects from start to finish. They oversee every project phase, ensuring timelines, budgets, and quality standards are met. Responsibilities often include developing and reviewing building plans, ensuring compliance with safety and environmental regulations, preparing construction contracts, and hiring contractors. Success in this role requires creativity, organization, leadership, and communication skills, plus proficiency with CAD tools and project management software.
A typical day for an architectural project manager might be in the office or in the field where they consult with clients, work on formulating equipment and labor cost estimates, confirm a project is meeting environmental, safety, structural, zoning, and aesthetic standards, and monitor compliance with building plans and project deadlines. Attention to detail, exceptional time management, and strong problem-solving and communication skills are required for this role.
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National Average Salary
Architectural project manager salaries vary by experience, industry, organization size, and geography. Click below to explore salaries by local market.
The average national salary for an Architectural Project Manager is:
$101,265
Architectural Project Manager Job Descriptions
The first step in the search for an exceptional architectural project manager is a well-crafted job description. Review the examples below to get started and set the foundation for attracting the talent your team needs.
Entry-Level Architectural PM
Job Overview: This role is ideal for recent graduates or those with 1-3 years of experience. The entry-level architectural project manager will assist senior staff in planning, organizing, and overseeing building projects.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in drafting and reviewing architectural plans.
- Communicate with clients to understand project requirements.
- Support the coordination of contractors and subcontractors.
- Monitor project timelines and budgets under supervision.
- Ensure compliance with zoning, environmental, and safety standards.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in architecture or related field preferred.
- Proficiency in CAD and project management software.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
Mid-Level Architectural PM
Job Overview: This position is for professionals with 4-7 years of experience. The mid-level architectural project manager takes on more complex projects and serves as a primary contact for clients.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop detailed project plans and budgets.
- Lead project teams, including contractors and consultants.
- Conduct regular site visits to monitor progress.
- Solve design and construction challenges efficiently.
- Ensure all projects meet regulatory and safety standards.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s or master’s degree in architecture.
- 5+ years of experience in architectural project management.
- Proven leadership and problem-solving abilities.
Senior Architectural PM
Job Overview: Senior architectural project managers bring 8+ years of experience and oversee large-scale or high-budget projects. They manage teams and guide projects from conception to completion.
Key Responsibilities:
- Define project scope, goals, and deliverables.
- Lead multiple projects simultaneously.
- Manage stakeholder expectations and negotiations.
- Supervise and mentor junior team members.
- Ensure all work adheres to sustainability and design excellence principles.
Qualifications:
- 8+ years of architectural project management experience.
- Expertise in design software and project management tools.
- Extensive knowledge of industry regulations and trends.
Specialized Architectural PM (Sustainable Design)
Job Overview: This role focuses on specialized projects such as sustainable or LEED-certified buildings. Candidates should have expertise in green architecture and environmental compliance.
Key Responsibilities:
- Develop energy-efficient building designs.
- Ensure all projects meet sustainability standards like LEED or WELL certifications.
- Collaborate with environmental consultants and engineers.
- Integrate renewable energy solutions into projects.
Qualifications:
- Certifications in sustainable design (e.g., LEED AP).
- Strong knowledge of energy modeling and green building practices.
Candidate Certifications to Look For
- Certified Construction Manager (CCM): This certification showcases a candidate’s leadership, professionalism, career advancement, and pursuit of continued education within the field. An exam is required, and the certification can be renewed every three years.
- Project Management Professional (PMP): This certification is awarded to those with successful project management skills. Candidates are required to have two or more years of experience before applying, and the certification can be renewed every three years. This exam covers six topics regarding project management, including initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, closing, and professional and social responsibility while completing projects.
- Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM): This certification is for candidates who want to improve their project management skills. It requires 23 hours of education and a 3-hour-long test with 150 questions. This certification can be taken at any level of their career and needs to be renewed every three years.
- LEED Accredited Professional (LEED AP): Specialization in sustainable design and energy-efficient practices.
- Revit Architecture Certified Professional: Certification in using Revit software, essential for complex design work.