Home Jobs Principal-Design
Back to Jobs

Principal-Design - Job Opportunity at HOK

Denver, United States
Full-time
Executive
Posted: March 16, 2025
Hybrid
USD 140,000 - 170,000 per year

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical Insurance with competitive coverage
Dental and Vision coverage with preventive care focus
401(k) retirement savings plan
Short and Long-term disability insurance
Life and accident insurance coverage
Flexible PTO policy
Progressive parental leave program
Hybrid work arrangement with remote options
Flexible scheduling for work-life balance

Key Responsibilities

Lead strategic design vision and direction across multiple disciplines and markets
Drive design excellence and innovation culture throughout the practice
Maintain and enhance HOK's design reputation through client relationships and project leadership
Guide integrated design teams while ensuring quality and sustainability standards
Develop business opportunities and manage key client relationships
Mentor and develop architectural talent while building design culture
Lead project reviews and maintain design quality standards

Requirements

Education

Bachelor of architecture required; Master of architecture preferred

Experience

15 years of experience with a large architectural firm, with 5 years as a lead project designer or design director

Required Skills

Demonstrated creativity, passion and interest in architectural design Ability to lead and manage the design group with a collaborative leadership style which puts value on relationships, both internal and external Ability to think strategically, implements change, and resolves conflict Thorough understanding of project work plans, schedules, staffing, and budgets Proven ability to prioritize oneself and the work of others in order to meet deadlines and provide high quality service to clients Proven ability to create and maintain strong working relationships with external clients and internal staff Proven ability to masterfully present, effectively sell and negotiate the firm-wide services of HOK Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing Thorough knowledge of sustainability, integrated design and LEED guidelines Proficiency in the basic technical skills of architecture

Certifications

Registered Architect license preferred LEED Credential required within 12 months
Advertisement
Ad Space

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Industry Trends

The architectural industry is experiencing increased demand for sustainable design integration, with LEED certification becoming a standard requirement rather than a differentiator Digital transformation in architecture is accelerating, with firms investing heavily in BIM and collaborative design technologies Post-pandemic workplace design is creating new opportunities for innovative solutions that balance remote work with collaborative spaces Environmental and social responsibility in design is becoming a critical client requirement, driving the need for expertise in sustainable and inclusive design practices

Salary Evaluation

The offered salary range of $140,000-170,000 is competitive for a Principal Design role in Denver, though slightly below major coastal markets. Top performers in similar roles can command up to $200,000+ with bonuses in high-cost markets

Role Significance

Based on the firm size and role scope, this position likely oversees 15-25 design professionals directly and influences projects worth $50M+ annually
This is a senior leadership position with significant influence on firm-wide design direction and business strategy. The role combines creative leadership with business development responsibilities, indicating a position in the top 10% of architectural leadership hierarchy

Key Projects

Large-scale commercial and corporate workplace transformations Sustainable urban development and mixed-use projects Healthcare and institutional facilities requiring complex programming High-profile public and cultural buildings with significant community impact

Success Factors

Strong ability to balance design excellence with business objectives and client requirements Proven track record of building and maintaining client relationships while driving design innovation Excellence in team leadership and talent development Strategic thinking and ability to position design solutions within broader market context

Market Demand

High demand exists for senior design leadership roles, particularly those with sustainable design expertise and proven ability to drive innovation. The post-pandemic market has increased focus on adaptive reuse and workplace transformation projects, creating additional opportunities for experienced design principals

Important Skills

Critical Skills

Design Leadership - Essential for driving innovation and maintaining firm's market position Client Relationship Management - Critical for business development and project success Sustainable Design Expertise - Key differentiator in current market Team Leadership - Fundamental to developing design culture and mentoring talent

Beneficial Skills

Digital Design Tools Proficiency Public Speaking and Presentation Skills Change Management Experience International Project Experience

Unique Aspects

Combination of design leadership with significant business development responsibilities
Strong emphasis on sustainability and integrated design approach
Progressive work arrangements unusual for senior leadership roles
Significant autonomy in design direction while maintaining collaborative approach

Career Growth

Typical progression to next level positions occurs within 3-5 years, depending on business growth and market conditions

Potential Next Roles

Managing Principal Design Director for multiple offices Regional Design Leader Global Practice Leader

Company Overview

HOK

HOK is one of the world's largest architecture-engineering firms, known for innovative design solutions and sustainable practices across multiple sectors

Top-tier global design firm with significant presence in commercial, healthcare, and institutional markets
Denver office serves as a key regional hub for Mountain States operations, with significant growth potential in emerging markets
Professional environment emphasizing design excellence, sustainability, and work-life balance, with progressive policies supporting hybrid work arrangements
Advertisement
Ad Space
Apply Now

Data Sources & Analysis Information

Job Listings Data

The job listings displayed on this platform are sourced through BrightData's comprehensive API, ensuring up-to-date and accurate job market information.

Sauge AI Market Intelligence

Our advanced AI system analyzes each job listing to provide valuable insights including:

  • Industry trends and market dynamics
  • Salary estimates and market demand analysis
  • Role significance and career growth potential
  • Critical success factors and key skills
  • Unique aspects of each position

This integration of reliable job data with AI-powered analysis helps provide you with comprehensive insights for making informed career decisions.