Senior Architect - Mixed-Use Living

About the role

You will own the conceptual and schematic design development for mid-rise and high-density residential projects within the Calgary market, ensuring that each proposal responds to the specific cultural and environmental context of the site. You will lead collaborative design workshops with cross-disciplinary teams to translate complex program requirements into coherent, human-centered architectural narratives that strengthen community connections. You will champion the integration of sustainable strategies and resilient detailing throughout the design process, demonstrating how thoughtful architecture can enhance both urban vitality and environmental performance. You will mentor junior designers by providing clear direction, constructive feedback, and technical guidance to elevate the quality of deliverables and support professional growth. You will act as a key liaison with consultants, consultants, and municipal stakeholders to ensure design decisions are coordinated, code-compliant, and constructible within established timelines. You will contribute to the business development of the practice by producing high-quality design visuals and compelling narratives that communicate the value of our proposals to clients and collaborators. You will continuously research emerging trends, typologies, and materials related to urban living, bringing insights back to the studio that inspire innovation and differentiate our projects in the marketplace. You will participate in the development of project-specific design frameworks, ensuring that each initiative aligns with DIALOG's broader vision for community wellbeing and urban vibrancy.

Key facts

What you'll do

Conduct initial site analyses and contextual investigations to inform design responses that respect existing urban patterns, infrastructure, and landscape conditions.

Translate client objectives and regulatory requirements into integrated architectural programs that balance density, functionality, and public realm activation.

Develop massing studies and spatial organizations that optimize daylight, solar access, and passive performance while respecting neighbors and streetscape expectations.

Coordinate with structural, mechanical, and civil consultants to refine structural systems, building enclosures, and service integration within multi-unit residential frameworks.

Lead the preparation of design documentation packages, including plans, sections, elevations, and details that clearly communicate intent to consultants, authorities, and stakeholders.

Present design concepts to clients, municipal representatives, and community groups using sketches, models, and digital visualizations to foster understanding and secure approvals.

Research and specify sustainable materials and systems, including envelope technologies, energy-efficient assemblies, and low-carbon alternatives that enhance building performance.

Apply urban design principles to create inviting public spaces, walkable ground floors, and seamless connections to surrounding neighborhoods and transit networks.

Support the development of project budgets, schedules, and risk assessments, ensuring that design decisions remain feasible and aligned with project goals.

Mentor emerging designers through studio reviews, one-on-one coaching, and knowledge-sharing sessions that promote technical proficiency and design confidence.

Monitor project progress through construction documentation and site review, identifying opportunities for clarification, improvement, and innovation.

Contribute to the growth of DIALOG's design knowledge base by documenting case studies, sharing best practices, and exploring new typologies relevant to urban living.

Collaborate with marketing and business development teams to refine project narratives, ensuring that design intent is clearly articulated in proposals and presentations.

Promote a culture of curiosity and experimentation within the team by encouraging exploration of materials, tectonics, and spatial experiences that enrich architectural outcomes.

Champion inclusive design practices that ensure accessibility, adaptability, and comfort for diverse users across residential environments.

Requirements

You are a registered architect in good standing with the Alberta Association of Architects, or you hold equivalent certification and are eligible for registration in Alberta.

You hold a Bachelor of Architecture, Master of Architecture, or a related professional degree from a recognized institution, with a strong foundation in design, building technology, and urban form.

You have a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in architectural practice, with a demonstrated focus on multi-unit residential and mixed-use development.

You have a proven track record of delivering projects from concept through to construction administration, including coordination with consultants and compliance with municipal regulations.

You possess a thorough understanding of building codes, zoning requirements, and industry standards relevant to mid-rise and high-density construction in Alberta.

You are proficient in architectural drawing sets, construction details, and specification writing, with the ability to produce clear, accurate, and constructible documents.

You have hands-on experience with sustainable design tools, energy modeling, and performance-driven strategies, including familiarity with LEED or similar certification frameworks.

You demonstrate strong leadership and mentorship abilities, with experience guiding junior designers and fostering a collaborative studio environment.

Nice to have

Experience with projects in Alberta or other cold-climate jurisdictions, with a demonstrated understanding of thermal performance and envelope detailing for high-density buildings.

Familiarity with form-based codes, urban design guidelines, and municipal approval processes in Canadian markets.

Exposure to mass timber construction, prefabrication strategies, and other innovative structural systems relevant to multi-unit residential projects.

Experience using digital tools such as parametric modeling, Building Information Modeling (BIM), and real-time visualization platforms to support design development and coordination.

A portfolio that reflects a thoughtful approach to urban living, including mixed-use, residential, or community-focused projects that show sensitivity to public realm and sustainability.

Practical notes

This is a full-time position based in our Calgary studio, and the role requires regular attendance during standard business hours.

Travel may be required within the Calgary region for site visits, client meetings, and stakeholder engagement activities.

Candidates must be eligible to work in Canada without restriction, and visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

The selection process will include a portfolio review, professional references, and a design-based assignment to assess technical and creative capabilities.