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Arena Family of Companies

Senior Project Manager (DSA, K-12, & Higher Education)

Arena Family of Companies, Newport Beach

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Job Description

Join a nationally respected leader in educational architecture. With decades of experience delivering innovative, high-performance learning environments, this firm specializes in K-12 and higher education facilities, with deep expertise in DSA-regulated projects throughout California.

Recognized for designing impactful school and public-use facilities that support client missions and community needs. The team is committed to excellence in design, project delivery, and client service, driven by experienced architects, planners, and project managers with a passion for shaping the future of education.

Why This Role?

  • Competitive Compensation : Attractive base salary aligned with experience and market benchmarks
  • Performance Incentives : Biannual merit-based bonus opportunities
  • Comprehensive Benefits : Full medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and additional performance-based & project base incentives
  • Generous PTO : Starts at 3 weeks and increases to 4 weeks after 5 years.
  • Established Legacy : Over 70 years in business with a strong reputation and long-standing presence in the market.
  • Stability & Security : Extremely low turnover and a demonstrated commitment to employees, no layoffs even during COVID .
  • Long-Term Growth : Clear upward mobility and a culture that supports professional development, “sky is the limit” mentality.
  • Strong Tenure : Many team members have been with the firm 10+ years, reflecting loyalty and satisfaction.
  • Robust Project Pipeline : Work secured for the next 10 years, providing consistent workload and job security.
  • Educational Market Leader : Currently working with 20 school districts, with relationships across 80 statewide.

What You’ll Do :

  • Lead complex K-12 and higher education projects from planning through closeout with a strong emphasis on DSA jurisdiction and public-sector delivery.
  • Manage multidisciplinary teams, consultants, budgets, and schedules while maintaining exceptional client relationships across multiple school districts.
  • Oversee all phases of design and construction administration, ensuring compliance with DSA requirements, district standards, and educational facility guidelines.
  • Work collaboratively with senior leadership to drive project strategy, mentor junior staff, and uphold quality and design excellence.
  • Act as a trusted point of contact to school district clients, helping guide projects that positively impact learning environments across California.

    • What You Bring :

  • 10+ years of architectural project management experience, with a proven track record delivering DSA-regulated K-12 / Higher Ed projects.
  • Strong knowledge of California Building Codes, DSA procedures, and public bidding requirements.
  • California architectural license (or NCARB) strongly preferred.
  • Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage budgets / contracts, and navigate complex stakeholder environments.
  • Excellent communication, problem-solving, and client-facing skills, with a passion for educational design and public-sector work.
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