Technical Director

Description

RIOS is an international design collective. We are actively in pursuit of wonder within the design of the built environment. We believe design is an act of optimism through which invention and ideas change the world. We practice interconnected design across architecture, placemaking, and landscape architecture to define design as a continuum. 

We follow a process that begins with attunement, where program and context shape strong conceptual thinking to establish a holistically informed big idea through which we develop form, confirm function, and define experience as the basis on which to explore ecology, material, and tectonic expression. We are known for our bold solutions that are inclusive of the wider context and are ever mindful that an interdisciplinary approach to design brings about inclusive, resilient, and original solutions that ensure diversity and resilience.  

The Technical Director provides strategic and technical leadership across architectural projects to ensure the highest standards of design execution, constructability, and regulatory compliance. This role oversees technical quality, establishes firmwide standards, and supports project teams through complex design and construction challenges. The Technical Director collaborates closely with principals, project managers, and consultants to deliver projects that meet client expectations, regulatory requirements, and industry best practices. 

 Primary responsibilities include: 

• Serve as the firm’s primary authority on architectural technical standards, detailing, and documentation. 
• Develop and maintain firmwide  construction documentation standards. 
• Provide technical guidance and problem-solving support to project teams throughout all project phases. 
• Review project drawings, specifications, and technical documentation for quality, constructability, and compliance. 
• Participate in design reviews.
• Lead QAQC processes.
• Identify and resolve complex technical issues related to building systems, materials, and construction methods. 
• Ensure alignment with building codes, zoning regulations, accessibility standards, and sustainability requirements. 
• Support project teams during construction administration to respond to technical RFIs. 
• Lead the development of technical resources, libraries, and best practices for the firm. 
• Monitor industry trends, building technologies, and regulatory changes. 
• Promote innovation in building systems, materials, and sustainable design strategies. 
• Support the integration of technology such as BIM workflows and digital collaboration tools. 
• Mentor architects, designers, and technical staff in documentation and detailing best practices. 
• Support teams in collaboration with engineering consultants, contractors, and regulatory agencies. 
• Provide training sessions to enhance technical knowledge across the firm. 
• Ensure projects comply with local, state, and national building codes and industry standards. 
• Support risk mitigation strategies related to design liability and construction documentation. 
• Lead internal quality assurance and quality control programs. 

 This position is hybrid with three days in our Los Angeles office. 

Requirements

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture 
• Licensed Architect 
• 15+ years of professional architectural experience 
• Extensive construction administration experience in a diversity of project types 
• Extensive knowledge of building codes, construction documentation, and building systems 
• Strong experience with BIM platforms such as Revit and other architectural software 
• Proven ability to lead technical reviews and mentor project teams 
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills

Benefits & Perks:
RIOS offers a variety of benefits that support work-life balance, professional growth and personal well-being. This includes a hybrid work environment, comprehensive healthcare benefits, 401k matching, PTO package, and reduced summer work hours. 

RIOS is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), reasonable accommodations are available to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process and during employment, upon request.