Project Manager
Will you work late some nights, fueled by Doritos and coffee? Yes.
Will you occasionally lose track of the day, time zone, or your sanity? Also, yes.
But then. Opening day.
A child runs to the polar bear habitat as the bear dives into the water. Tiny hands meet a giant paw through the glass.
You walk through the queue you designed. You ride the coaster you helped bring to life. You hear laughter. Screams. Applause.
And at that moment, the deadlines, redlines, flights, and late nights fade away.
Because all those sketches? They’re now a real place where memories are made.
And you’ll know: PGAV is exactly where you belong.
At PGAV, we design experiences. From immersive destinations to cultural institutions, our work helps people connect to place, story, and each other. We partner with some of the world’s most exciting destinations and brands, where every detail shapes the guest journey. We design moments people remember.
We’re looking for a Project Manager who is self-motivated, highly creative, and grounded in the technical side of architecture. You must be a quick learner, a strong collaborator, and someone who thrives in a studio environment where multiple projects are always in motion. You’ll lead the coordination of complex, design-driven projects, guiding project teams and clients through all phases, from concept design to construction documentation and construction administration.
What You’ll Do
- Help bring theme parks, zoos, aquariums, museums, and other destinations to life through design and storytelling.
- Manage multiple projects simultaneously, balancing priorities, resources, and deadlines across varying project schedules.
- Coordinate project scope, deliverables, and team responsibilities while supporting fee development and work planning efforts.
- Apply a thorough understanding of architectural documentation processes and project deliverables across all phases of design and construction.
- Lead effective communication and collaboration among project teams working across multiple offices and geographic locations.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships through proactive communication, responsiveness, and trusted project leadership.
- Foster collaboration among internal team members, consultants, contractors, and clients to ensure project alignment and successful outcomes.
- Communicate clearly and professionally through written, verbal, and presentation formats.
- Demonstrate a strong understanding of architectural systems, construction methodologies, and technical design integration.
Project Leadership
- Partner with Project Executives to define project scope, fees, contracts, and overall project strategy.
- Develop and maintain project execution plans that align client goals, project requirements, and firm objectives while promoting efficient project delivery.
- Champion the creative vision of the project, ensuring design intent is maintained throughout all phases of work.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, building trust and guiding project decision-making.
- Exercise sound judgment to resolve complex project challenges, balancing client expectations, technical requirements, budget, and schedule considerations.
- Communicate project goals, scope, opportunities, and constraints to clients, consultants, and project teams.
- Mentor and support team members, fostering professional growth, technical development, and leadership skills.
- Represent the firm through professional engagement with clients, industry partners, and project stakeholders.
Project Management
- Develop project work plans, schedules, staffing strategies, and execution approaches that support successful project delivery.
- Lead project teams by assigning responsibilities and ensuring milestones are achieved.
- Facilitate internal multidisciplinary coordination.
- Direct consultant procurement, scope development, and fee negotiations and manage contract coordination.
- Oversee quality assurance and quality control processes to maintain consistency, accuracy, and project standards.
- Monitor project budgets, schedules, and program requirements, proactively addressing issues that may impact project performance.
- Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.
What You Bring
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, or a similar design-focused degree, from an accredited college or university.
- Licensure strongly preferred.
- 8+ years of experience in an architectural or design firm.
- Excellent hand and digital sketching skills.
- Demonstrated expertise in Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks, Bluebeam, and Adobe Creative Suite.
- Proficiency in 3D modeling software such as Rhino, SketchUp, or 3ds Max.
- Thorough knowledge of building codes and ADA requirements, with the ability to perform code analysis.
- Strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills.
- Ability to travel as needed.
What It’s Like to Work Here
- Studio-based work where curiosity, empathy, and storytelling drive the design process.
- Opportunities to contribute to projects that create memorable experiences for millions of guests around the world.
- A fast-paced environment where you’ll work alongside architects, designers, storytellers, and graphic designers, who are passionate about creating extraordinary places.
To apply, send your resume, portfolio, and one-page cover letter (maximum file size 9 MB) to interviews@pgav.com.
