Architect (Licensed)

️ Licensed Architect | A7 Group, Inc.

Encinitas, CA | Southern California

We’re looking for a California Licensed Architect who wants more than just another project role.

This is an opportunity to take real ownership, serve as Architect of Record , lead projects from initial site investigation through permitting and construction, and have a direct voice in the continued growth of our firm.

We’re a growing, entrepreneurial team where experienced architects stay close to the work — partnering with clients, leading technical delivery, solving complex challenges in the field, and working across both traditional architecture and forensic consulting.

What You’ll Do

• Serve as Architect of Record , reviewing, stamping, and signing construction documents and specifications.
• Manage projects end-to-end, including site investigations, as-builts, schematic design, construction documents, and permit approval.
• Lead planning, zoning, and code research and serve as the primary contact with building departments and plan reviewers.
• Perform forensic property inspections , analyze litigation case files, and author professional reports and opinions.
• Coordinate engineering consultants and communicate with product manufacturers.
• Guide and review the work of Job Captains and drafting staff.
• Represent A7 Group in client meetings, field engagements, and legal proceedings when needed.

What You Bring

• Active California Architect License in good standing — required.
• 5–10 years of architecture and/or construction experience, including responsible charge of projects.
• Strong knowledge of the California Building Code, zoning, and local permitting processes .
• Forensic architecture, inspection, field documentation, or litigation-support experience is strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Photoshop, Acrobat, and Microsoft Office .
• Willingness to travel throughout Southern California for field and forensic work.
• Comfortable with hands-on fieldwork, including balcony inspections, ladders, crawling, bending, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• NCARB certification is a plus.

Why A7 Group?

• ✨ Real authority & ownership — serve as Architect of Record and directly influence the firm's growth.
• ️ Variety — work across design, permitting, construction, field investigations, and forensic assignments.
• 🤝 Visible impact — join a smaller, collaborative team where your expertise and ideas matter.
• Growth — help shape a growing firm rather than simply filling a seat within a large organization.

Benefits include:

• Health, dental & vision insurance

• 401(k) with company profit sharing

• Paid vacation

• Covered travel expenses

• Company phone & computer

• License renewal & continuing education support