The Project Architect (Design Manager) is a architect, who will manage LCS Development projects. Ensuring functionality, pleasing design, and compliance. Responsibilities include assisting with design programming, scheduling of the design process, maintaining established budget, and ensuring that the design supports our operational goals and objectives. Senior Living experience is not required for this role.
Experience is Everything;
At LCS, experience is everything. We provide you the opportunity to use your talents in a progressive, growing organization that makes a positive difference in the lives of the seniors we serve. If you are seeking an organization that gives back, you’ll love working here. Our principles and hospitality promises define our company culture. LCS employees can be found participating in volunteer activities, getting involved in our committees or collaborating with team members in our innovative workspace. You’ll find several opportunities to grow as a professional, serve the community, and enhance the lives of seniors.
The Role:
- Directs the design process and coordinates all design disciplines to ensure scheduling, cost, quality, aesthetics, and design functionality meet established design standards and Project Development Manager expectations.
- Administers all design agreements, including basic and additional services.
- Supports the design process to ensure compliance with the established design program, maintaining knowledge of local and state codes, and how they affect the projects design and permitting.
- Performs selection of the architectural and other design consultants, including processing billing and payment applications, for approval by Project Development Manager.
- Negotiates, prepares, and executes the architectural and consultant agreements.
- Acquires knowledge of specified materials, finishes, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems to allow selection of cost-effective systems that meet the project budget. Work with the contractors to understand how to most efficiently utilize available materials and systems in the design process.
Qualifications:
- BA/BS in Architecture or construction management
- Registered Architect preferred but not required. If not licensed or currently in the testing process, LCS offers reimbursement options.
- Minimum 4-8 years postgraduate experience on multi-family, healthcare or hospitality projects is highly regarded.
- Minimum 2 years project management experience is highly regarded.
- Knowledge of senior living products lines including CCRC, and Assisted Living.
- Must be detail oriented, and have the ability to effectively partner with architectural firms, interior design firms, and contractors. Show sensitivity to and concern for the interest and needs of others, working to reduce conflict and establish smooth working relationships.
Culture:
LCS values collaboration, thoughtful problem-solving, and innovation. You will have the opportunity to work alongside cross-functional partners who appreciate strategy, leaders who are invested in your growth, and teammates who care about doing meaningful work.
We prioritize:
- Sustainable workloads
- High standards with realistic expectations
- Open communication & team collaboration
- Ownership & creative autonomy
- Professional development & mentorship
- A welcoming, inclusive environment where your voice matters
Why Join Us?
- Industry Leader.
- Inclusive & collaborative culture.
- Top Workplace USA.
- Top Workplace Iowa.
- Charity and community involvement.
- Outstanding advancement opportunities.
- Ongoing career development.
Benefits
Competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, and generous paid time off starting on your first day of employment (pro-rated). Our total rewards package includes medical, dental, and vision coverage; paid holidays and paid volunteer time; paid parental leave; bereavement leave; life insurance; short- and long-term disability; HSA and FSA options; supplemental voluntary benefits, and a 401K retirement plan with company match.
Employees are eligible for education reimbursement programs, cell phone reimbursement where applicable, and mileage reimbursement for LCS-approved travel.
Our Commitment
LCS creates living experiences that enhance the lives of seniors. You’ll see this commitment in our people. They’re talented, dedicated professionals who truly care about residents, with each conducting his or her work with integrity, honesty and transparency according to the principles of LCS. We strive to help every community succeed—strengthening available resources, establishing proven practices that lead to long-term growth and value for those living in, working for and affiliated with the community. Check us out on our website: https://www.lcsliving.com
Additional Information
Travel frequency: up to 25%
Estimated Salary: $113,000 - $141,000
Annual incentive opportunity: This role is eligible for a company-wide bonus plan based on corporate performance metrics & organizational success.
The actual title & salary will carefully consider a wide range of factors, including your skills, qualifications, experience, and other relevant factors.
A POST-OFFER BACKGROUND CHECK, INCLUDING REFERENCES IS REQUIRED.
LCS IS AN EQUAL OPPROTUNITY EMPLOYER.
Skills Required
- BA/BS in Architecture or Construction Management
- Registered Architect (license)
- Minimum 4-8 years postgraduate architecture experience on multi-family, healthcare, or hospitality projects
- Minimum 2 years project management experience
- Knowledge of local and state building codes and permitting processes
- Knowledge of senior living product lines (CCRC, Assisted Living)
- Ability to partner effectively with architectural firms, interior designers, and contractors; strong attention to detail
- Familiarity with materials, finishes, electrical, plumbing, and HVAC systems for cost-effective selection
- Successful completion of a post-offer background check including references
Vi Living Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Vi Living and has not been reviewed or approved by Vi Living.
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Healthcare Strength — Medical, dental, and vision coverage is complemented by optional protections such as life, disability, accident/critical illness, and hospital indemnity, plus access to mental‑health resources. Coverage typically begins the first day of the month after hire, reinforcing strong baseline healthcare support.
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Leave & Time Off Breadth — PTO, paid holidays, sick time where applicable, bereavement, jury duty, parental bonding, and caregiving leave create a broad time‑off portfolio. Some locations add paid volunteer time and anniversary holidays, extending flexibility for time away.
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Retirement Support — A 401(k) with company match anchors retirement readiness, supported by tools like FSAs and commuter benefits that aid overall financial planning. Access to a credit union and early wage access provide additional day‑to‑day financial support within the total rewards mix.
Vi Living Insights
What We Do
Vi is dedicated to providing quality environments, services, and programs to enrich the lives of older adults. Our goal is for our residents to continually experience the finest in senior living. Throughout Vi’s history, we have maintained our commitment to not only help seniors live independent lives on their terms, but also provide a nurturing environment for our employees to build fulfilling careers of service and care. Today, we support more than 2,900 employees in our corporate and community offices who are deeply committed to the care of our residents. The future success of Vi depends on maintaining a standard of excellence in all phases of resident services and relations.
Why Work With Us
At Vi, we go beyond words; respect, equity, diversity, and inclusion are the foundations of our culture. We're devoted to fostering an environment where every employee feels a genuine sense of belonging, appreciation, and empowerment.
