Director of Design (DSA, K-12, Education) - OC

About Us:

We are a highly respected architecture and planning firm known for delivering thoughtful, community-centered projects across California. Our team specializes in the planning and design of education facilities and public-sector environments, partnering with school districts and agencies to create modern, functional spaces that support learning and long-term community impact. Our collaborative culture brings together design excellence, technical expertise, and a passion for meaningful architecture.

The Position:

We are seeking a

Design Director / Senior Lead Designer

to serve as a

pivotal design leader

within our architecture practice. This role will lead the conceptual and creative direction for complex

K-12 and education-focused projects , guiding design vision from early concept through project development.

*The ideal candidate is a highly collaborative design professional with a strong portfolio of

DSA-regulated education projects

and the ability to lead multidisciplinary teams while working closely with clients, leadership, and project teams.

Design Director / Senior Lead Designer - Architecture
Locations: Newport Beach (OC), Solana Beach (San Diego), or Ontario, CA
Full-Time | Studio-Based
What You'll Do

Lead the design vision and creative direction for K-12 and education facility projects.
Guide projects from early concept and programming through design development.
Collaborate with project managers, architects, and technical teams to ensure design intent is successfully executed.
Work directly with clients and stakeholders to translate program goals and educational needs into impactful design solutions.
Ensure projects align with DSA regulations, California building codes, and public agency standards.
Present design concepts, studies, and strategies to clients, leadership teams, and project stakeholders.
Mentor and guide designers and architects across project teams.
Support design excellence across multiple studios while contributing to firmwide design initiatives.
Participate in business development, client presentations, and proposal efforts when needed.
What You Need (Qualifications)

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture or related design discipline.
8+ years of architectural design experience required; 10-20 years preferred.
Strong portfolio demonstrating K-12 or education-focused design projects.
Recent experience working on DSA-regulated projects is required.
Strong conceptual design abilities with experience leading project design efforts.
Proficiency in architectural design tools such as Revit, Adobe Creative Suite, and visualization tools.
Strong presentation and communication skills with the ability to articulate design vision to clients and teams.
Ability to lead collaborative design workshops and guide multidisciplinary teams.
California Architect license preferred.
What's Offered (Competitive Full Package - National)

Salary: $160,000 - $200,000 (DOE)
Annual performance-based bonus opportunities
Comprehensive Full Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision
401(k) with company match
Generous PTO, holidays, and personal time
Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
Opportunity to lead impactful K-12 and public education design projects across California
Collaborative design culture with strong studio leadership and career growth
Apply Today:

Apply directly to this posting with your updated resume, then email it to

ian.kerr@BancroftSP.com

for prompt review and confidential consideration.

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Equal Opportunity Statement: Bancroft Staffing Partners is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity & are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees & candidates, regardless of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status.