Join Our Team

FormStudio Architects is progressive and dynamic practice with a diverse project base across Northwest Ontario. We actively pursue unique project opportunities and endeavour to incorporate creative design, green building and energy efficiency in all of our projects.

To Submit an Application:

If you are interested in the Senior Architect position, please be sure to submit your resume and a portfolio to: careers@formstudioinc.ca

WE ARE HIRING:

SENIOR ARCHITECT – Job Description

FormStudio Architects is an integrated team of trusted professionals with an intense drive to design inspiring environments to elevate the way people live, work and make their mark on the world.

This role requires a licensed architect with deep technical knowledge, strong leadership capabilities, and a passion for delivering exceptional design solutions.

A Senior Licensed Architect will be accountable to the Principals and will work closely with engineers, consultants, and clients to manage architectural projects from conceptual design through construction administration. You will take on a leadership role in the design process, mentoring junior architects, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams, and ensuring projects meet quality, timeline, and budgetary goals.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

In addition to FormStudio’s Standard Terms and Conditions of Employment, your key responsibilities include the following:

1. Project Leadership 

  • Lead and manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring high-quality design and delivery across all phases—from concept through construction completion. 
  • Act as the primary point of contact for internal teams, clients, consultants, contractors, and other stakeholders. 
  • Champion innovative design solutions while ensuring alignment with client goals, project timelines, and budgets. 
  • Provide strategic guidance on project direction and decision-making, focusing the team on design standards, regulatory requirements, and sustainability goals.

2. Design & Technical Expertise 

  • Lead the conceptual and schematic design phases, providing expert insight into the technical, aesthetic, and functional aspects of the projects. 
  • Offer advanced knowledge of building systems, construction materials, codes, and standards to inform design and problem-solving throughout the project lifecycle. 
  • Ensure that designs are executable and constructible, collaborating closely with engineers and other consultants to refine technical aspects of projects. 
  • Review design documents for accuracy, completeness, and constructability, ensuring designs meet client specifications, industry standards and sustainability goals.
  • Provide technical expertise in architectural detailing, building systems integration, and construction methodology to ensure that designs are buildable, cost-effective, and aligned with industry best practices.

3. Client & Stakeholder Engagement 

  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients, consultants, contractors, and other project stakeholders to foster a collaborative approach throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Lead client meetings, presentations, and design reviews, presenting concepts and solutions clearly and confidently.
  • Ensure that client feedback is incorporated into designs and that any project adjustments or issues are addressed in a timely and professional manner.
  • Develop and present compelling project proposals, presentations, and design concepts that effectively communicate the firm’s vision and expertise. 

4. Project Management & Delivery 

  • Oversee the day-to-day management of assigned projects, ensuring that they stay on schedule, within budget, and meet all quality standards. 
  • Coordinate with cross-disciplinary teams to manage project scope, procurement, contracts, and deliverables. 
  • Ensure proper documentation of design decisions, change orders, and project communications and meetings. 
  • Identify and mitigate project risks, proactively resolving issues that may arise during project delivery.
  • Travel as required to meet project requirements for projects/tasks outside of the city of Thunder Bay.

5. Mentoring & Team Development 

  • Support the Principals in the mentorship of architects, design staff and technical staff, providing guidance, feedback, and training to foster their professional growth. 
  • Lead by example in promoting a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning within the team. 
  • Help the Principals cultivate an environment of creative problem-solving, encouraging the development of unique design solutions. 
  • Assist the Principals in providing constructive feedback and performance reviews for team members to help them achieve their professional goals.

6. Quality Assurance 

  • Ensure all architectural work meets the firm’s quality standards, codes, regulations, and best practices. 
  • Conduct regular quality control reviews of design documents, drawings, and specifications, ensuring accuracy and completeness. 
  • Promote a culture of excellence by adhering to the firm’s internal quality assurance processes and continually seeking ways to improve workflows. 
  • Champion sustainable design practices and contribute to the firm’s commitment to environmental stewardship and resource conservation.
  • Demonstrate commitment to continuing professional development
  • Lead post-construction evaluations and provide feedback to continuously improve internal processes and workflows.

7. Business Development & Firm Representation 

  • Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and client meetings, enhancing the firm’s reputation and brand presence. 
  • Contribute to business development efforts, identifying new opportunities and building relationships with potential clients, partners, and collaborators. 
  • Participate in the preparation of proposals and presentations ensuring the firm’s strengths and capabilities are effectively communicated. 
  • Stay informed about industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory changes, leveraging this knowledge to position the firm as a leader in the architectural field.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Licensed Architect (OAA) with a minimum of 10 years of licensed experience in architectural design and project management. 
  • Proven track record in leading and delivering complex architectural projects across a variety of sectors (e.g., commercial, institutional, residential, or mixed-use). 
  • Expertise in architectural design, building systems, construction processes, and relevant software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, BIM, etc.). 
  • Strong understanding of local, provincial, and national building codes and regulations. 
  • Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, consultants, contractors, and team members. 
  • Leadership and mentorship experience with a passion for team development and fostering a collaborative work environment.

AUTHORITY:

  • You will be expected to work independently on assigned tasks, with the expectation of escalating complex design issues or decisions to the principals for guidance where required.
  • Only the Principals have the authority to bind the company in any contractual obligations including signing contracts, changes of scope and verbal conversations that relate to a potential contract.
  • Principals and Senior Architects have the authority to certify construction payment certificates and recommend change orders for construction contracts.
  • Principals and Senior Architects are expected to apply their professional seal to the work of the practice.

ACCOUNTABILITY:

In addition to FormStudio’s Standard Terms and Conditions of Employment, you are accountable to the Principals for the following:

  • Ensuring that all architectural documentation (drawings, models, specifications) meets required standards for accuracy, quality, and compliance with relevant building codes, regulations, and project requirements.
  • Delivering assigned tasks on time and in accordance with the project’s objectives, budgets and deadlines.
  • Demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning, improving your technical skills, and applying them effectively in project work.
  • Adhering to the company’s procedures, best practices, and project workflows, ensuring that your contributions are consistent with overall project goals.
  • Maintaining clear communication with both internal teams and external stakeholders, ensuring that all updates and changes are communicated effectively.
  • Maintaining all regulatory requirements for licensure.

This job description provides a comprehensive outline of the key responsibilities and expectations for a Senior Architect, ensuring alignment with the firm’s strategic goals while offering opportunities for professional growth and leadership.