Job Description

About the Job

We are seeking a Architectural Operations Principal to lead project delivery operations across our growing portfolio. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, overseeing project profitability, resource management, and operational excellence. The Production Principal works in partnership with Design Principals to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. Join cove, the world’s first AI-powered, human-centered architecture firm, and help redefine how architects design, collaborate, and lead in the age of intelligent technology.

Responsibilities:

Project Delivery & Financial Management

• Oversee P&L for portfolio of 5-20 concurrent projects
• Develop project budgets, fee proposals, and contract strategies
• Track project financial performance and implement corrective actions
• Conduct monthly financial reporting and forecasting
• Negotiate contracts and manage scope changes with clients

Operations & Process Leadership

• Direct end-to-end project delivery from kickoff through closeout
• Establish and maintain quality gates, phase reviews, and project milestones
• Develop and refine delivery processes and best practices
• Manage project dashboards and weekly status reporting
• Lead project kickoffs and coordinate cross-functional teams

Team Leadership & Resource Management

• Manage and coach Project Architects on delivery execution and performance
• Allocate resources and optimize team capacity across projects
• Plan hiring needs and participate in recruiting for delivery roles
• Conduct performance reviews and develop team members
• Build culture of accountability and operational excellence

Consultant & Vendor Coordination

• Build and maintain network of specialized consultants (MEP, structural, civil)
• Lead consultant selection, contracting, and performance management
• Coordinate multi-disciplinary project teams

Strategic Collaboration

• Partner with Design Principals and Revenue team on project scope, scheduling, and feasibility
• Support proposal development and client presentations
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency gains
• Collaborate with leadership on firm growth strategy

Qualifications:

Required Experience

• 10+ years in architecture project delivery with demonstrated P&L responsibility
• 5+ years managing teams and scaling delivery operations
• Proven track record leading projects through rapid growth (2x+ headcount)
• Experience managing project budgets from $250K to $5M+
• Bachelors or Masters degree in Architecture

Technical Skills

• Proficient in project management tools (Monday.com, Asana, or similar)
• Strong financial acumen with budget development and analysis experience
• Knowledge of architecture delivery processes and construction administration
• Experience with contract negotiation and risk management

Leadership Capabilities

• Strategic thinking with ability to balance design quality and profitability
• Strong communication skills across clients, consultants, and internal teams
• Proven ability to build systems and drive accountability
• Experience coaching and developing project teams
• Track record of proactive problem identification and resolution

Preferred Qualifications

• Architecture license (preferred but not required)
• Background in technology-forward or design-driven firms
• Familiarity with design-build or fast-track delivery methods

Location:

This is a hybrid position based in Atlanta, GA, with Tuesdays and Thursdays in-person for collaboration, mentorship, and training.

What’s In It for You:

1. 100% Employer Paid Health insurance
2. Vision and Dental benefits
3. Employer-paid public transit pass and biking stipend
4. Competitive Pay
5. Work-Life Balance
6. Onsite Gym membership
7. Hybrid Work
8. Unlimited Paid time off and holidays
9. Snacks, beer, team events

cove is proud to recruit and hire talented people from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity or transgender status), age, or disability.

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