STEM OPT Project Architect Jobs
Project Architect roles at E-Verify-enrolled firms qualify for STEM OPT, giving graduates with architecture, engineering, or related STEM degrees up to 36 months of work authorization. Your employer must be enrolled in E-Verify before you submit the I-983 training plan to your DSO to activate the 24-month extension.
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Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and detail-oriented Project Architect/Project Manager to lead innovative architectural projects from conception through completion. This role offers an exciting opportunity to manage diverse projects, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and deliver exceptional design solutions that inspire and elevate spaces. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for architecture, strong leadership skills, and a comprehensive understanding of construction processes, ensuring projects are executed efficiently, on time, and within budget. Join us to shape inspiring environments while advancing your career in a collaborative and energetic setting.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design development process using AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp to produce accurate drawings and compelling visual presentations.
- Manage project schedules meticulously, coordinating timelines across multiple phases including design, permitting, construction documentation, and construction management.
- Oversee all aspects of construction management and renovation projects, ensuring adherence to specifications, codes, contractor interactions, and client expectations.
- Develop detailed construction estimates and budgets; monitor project costs through effective budgeting strategies and cost control measures.
- Facilitate negotiations with clients, contractors, consultants, and vendors to secure contracts and resolve project challenges efficiently.
- Utilize Bluebeam for document review and markup and coordination during the design process.
- Coordinate with business development teams to identify new opportunities, prepare proposals, and foster long-term client relationships.
- Supervise drafting teams and coordinate multidisciplinary inputs to ensure high-quality deliverables aligned with project goals.
- Conduct site visits to oversee construction progress, verify compliance with design intent, and address any issues promptly.
- Manage contracts related to architectural services and construction work; ensure all contractual obligations are met throughout the project lifecycle.
Skills
- Proficiency in project scheduling tools and techniques to keep projects on track from start to finish.
- Strong expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Bluebeam, and CAD software for drafting and visualization.
- Deep understanding of construction processes including renovation projects; experience with construction estimating and budgeting is essential.
- Excellent negotiation skills for contracts management with clients, contractors, and vendors.
- Knowledge of building codes, zoning regulations, permits, and compliance standards relevant to architectural projects.
- Ability to lead project management efforts effectively while fostering collaboration among team members.
- Experience in interior design elements related to architectural projects is a plus.
- Strong communication skills for clear client presentations and team coordination. Join us as a Project Architect/Project Manager where your expertise will drive innovative designs forward while managing complex projects with energy and precision.
Requirements
- Licensed Architect preferred
- LEED accreditation a plus
- Minimum 6 years of experience managing commercial or education projects
- Strong design and graphic skills, exceptional knowledge of space programming, contract documents, detailing, specifications, team production management and contract administration
- Ability to communicate clearly and concisely; both verbally and in writing
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build strong relationships with clients and associates
- Strong computer skills (Revit, AutoCAD, Microsoft Office), as required to manage project teams
Pay
$80,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Flexible spending account
- Happy hour
- Health insurance
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
- Vision insurance
Education
- Bachelor's (Required)
Experience
- Project management: 6 years (Preferred)
License/Certification
- Architecture License (Preferred)
Work Location
In person
See all 94+ STEM OPT Project Architect Jobs
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Get Access To All JobsTips for Finding STEM OPT Authorization in Project Architect
Verify your degree CIP code qualifies
Architecture programs typically fall under CIP code 04.0201, which is on the STEM OPT CIP code list. Confirm your specific degree program's code with your DSO before applying, since a mismatch delays or blocks your extension.
Check E-Verify enrollment before accepting offers
Ask hiring managers directly whether the firm is enrolled in E-Verify before your offer stage. A firm can be licensed and reputable but still not E-Verify enrolled, which disqualifies them as your STEM OPT employer entirely.
Target firms with active federal contracts
Federal contractors are legally required to use E-Verify, so architecture firms pursuing federal or GSA projects are near-certain to be enrolled. Filter your search by firms holding government contracts to concentrate on guaranteed-eligible employers.
Build your I-983 training plan around project phases
Your I-983 must tie STEM learning goals to specific, measurable job tasks. Map objectives to concrete project architect responsibilities like design development, construction documents, and site observation so the plan satisfies USCIS scrutiny at reporting intervals.
Use Migrate Mate to find pre-verified employers
Search Project Architect roles on Migrate Mate, which surfaces employers with confirmed E-Verify enrollment so you're not manually vetting each firm. This cuts the screening stage down to the firms that can actually sponsor your STEM OPT.
File your extension before your OPT EAD expires
Submit your STEM OPT extension application to USCIS at least 90 days before your initial OPT EAD end date. An auto cap-gap provision does not apply here, so a late filing leaves you without work authorization while the application is pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a Project Architect role qualify for STEM OPT?
Yes, if your underlying degree is in a qualifying STEM field such as architecture, civil engineering, or a related discipline listed on the STEM OPT CIP code list. The role itself must also provide practical training directly related to that degree. Confirm your program's CIP code with your DSO before relying on eligibility, since the degree program drives qualification, not the job title alone.
What E-Verify requirement applies to my STEM OPT employer?
Your employer must be actively enrolled in E-Verify before you begin STEM OPT employment. Enrollment is not retroactive, so a firm that signs up after your start date cannot validate the extension. Ask the HR or legal team to share the E-Verify company ID or confirmation number before you sign an offer. You can browse firms already confirmed as E-Verify enrolled on Migrate Mate.
What goes into the I-983 training plan for a Project Architect?
The I-983 requires your employer to identify specific STEM learning objectives tied to your daily work. For a Project Architect role, acceptable objectives include applying structural analysis principles to design decisions, using BIM software to meet engineering tolerances, and coordinating with licensed engineers on code compliance. Both you and your supervisor must sign the plan, and you'll submit status reports at 12 and 24 months.
How does cap-gap affect Project Architects transitioning to H-1B?
If your employer files an H-1B visa petition before your STEM OPT EAD expires and you're selected in the lottery, cap-gap automatically extends your work authorization through September 30 of that fiscal year. You can continue working as a Project Architect during this period without interruption. If your EAD expires before the lottery results are confirmed, your authorized stay extends but work authorization depends on the timely filing receipt.
Can I work for multiple architecture firms on STEM OPT?
Yes, but each employer must independently meet the E-Verify enrollment requirement, and each concurrent or subsequent employer must be added to an updated I-983 training plan filed with your DSO. You cannot begin work for a second firm until that firm's enrollment is confirmed and your DSO has processed the update. USCIS requires that all STEM OPT employment remain directly related to your qualifying STEM degree.