Senior Project Designer
Company: Pfluger Architects
Location: Austin
Posted on: January 17, 2026
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Job Description:
Job Description Job Description Description The Senior Project
Designer is responsible for shaping the story and design narrative
of each project, overseeing the conceptualization and development
of inspiring, client-focused designs. This individual will ensure
that the design aligns with the guiding principles of both Pfluger
and the client. This person will work collaboratively in leading
all design activities from pre-design through schematic design,
inspiring the client and internal design team. As a key leader
within the firm, the Senior Project Designer drives firm-wide
initiatives, serves as a mentor for the design team, and spearheads
advancements within their discipline. Role & Responsibilities
Embody Pfluger’s core values. Consistently demonstrate the
principles of Do What’s Right , Build Synergy , Make a Difference ,
and Never Settle in all professional activities. Oversee the
pre-design phase and set the tone for the “breaking of the bread”
meeting. Inspire the client and drive the visioning process.
Supervise the comprehensive analysis of the project site to
incorporate geotechnical, environmental, social, historic, and
cultural conditions. Oversee space planning and block planning
efforts with a high attention to detail. Drive strategic research
on building materials, sustainable design practices, and current
technologies to influence firm-wide innovative design processes.
Lead the development of the project story and program. Guide the
conceptualization of building design from both a functional and
aesthetic perspective, aligning with the client’s requirements,
guiding principles, and budget. Drive the development of design
concepts through sketches, physical models, electronic models,
diagrams, massing studies, and other visual formats to express the
design intent. Act as the primary design representative in
presentations to the project team, client, and building user
groups. In partnership with the project team, lead the evaluation
and selection of building systems and materials. Partner with the
Interior Designer to direct the development of advanced floor
plans, furniture layouts, and room arrangements to maximize
function and aesthetics. Guide the development and refinement of
design concepts and narratives, integrating creative ideas and
technical aspects. Implement sustainable design principles into the
building design and surrounding environment whenever possible.
Provide expert guidance on building codes and regulations to assure
project compliance. Lead internal design reviews and pin ups from
the pre-design stage to the schematic design stage. Provide
constructive feedback during all project stages to improve design
solutions. Lead the presentation of building design to key
stakeholders during early project phases. Address feedback and
refine solutions as needed. Oversee and review architectural
documents from schematic design to construction documentation,
ensuring accuracy and alignment with the design vision. Coordinate
and strategically collaborate with architects, consultants,
contractors, industry representatives, and other stakeholders to
ensure the seamless integration of design components. Address
project complexities with expertise. Advise on site visits in
partnership with the Project Manager, providing input to ensure
that construction aligns with design intent. Strategically guide
value engineering processes to ensure design quality and intent are
maintained. Approve substitution requests related to materials or
design intent. Partner with the Project Manager in responding to
requests for information (RFIs) by clarifying design-related issues
or addressing gaps in the documentation that could impact the
building's design. Lead multiple project teams, ensuring effective
collaboration throughout all project phases. Serve as a key leader
within the organization, contributing to strategic initiatives and
the advancement of the firm. Act as an ambassador and steward of
the firm’s portfolio of work with the ability to guide and educate
others. Mentor and support junior staff (Technical Staff I –
Project Designer III), providing guidance and fostering a culture
of collaboration and professional development. Support
architectural staff in pursuit of licensure and provide
opportunities to earn AXP hours. Skills, Knowledge & Expertise
Alignment with Pfluger’s purpose of “ inspiring people to create a
more meaningful human experience ,” with a commitment to continuous
learning and improvement. Extensive knowledge of architecture and
design principles and practices. Strong visual and design skills,
with the ability to effectively communicate ideas through drawings
and models. Demonstrated proficiency in projects of the greatest
size and complexity, historically ensuring design excellence,
accuracy, and timely delivery. Experience in educational projects
is required. Proficiency in Revit is essential. Experience with
Bluebeam, other relevant design software, and Microsoft Office
products is highly preferred. Strong leadership and communication
skills, with the ability to engage, mentor, and motivate clients
and internal teams. Exceptional organizational skills, attention to
detail, and the ability to manage multiple complex projects
simultaneously. Extensive knowledge of building codes, regulations,
construction processes, and project documentation. Demonstrated
problem solving skills and the ability to work under pressure in a
fast-paced environment. Ability and prior experience overseeing and
guiding project teams. Professional degree in Architecture is
required. Licensed Architect in the state of Texas is required.
Minimum of ten years of architectural experience. Location The
Senior Project Designer must be prepared to commute to Pfluger’s
local office and as required to Pfluger’s other offices.
Keywords: Pfluger Architects, Georgetown , Senior Project Designer, Design, Graphic Design & CAD , Austin, Texas
