Project Architect - Sports + Recreation + Entertainment

HOK is a collective of future-forward thinkers and designers who are driven to face the critical challenges of our time. We are dedicated to improving people's lives, serving our clients and healing the planet. Together, we cultivate a culture of design excellence at the confluence of art and science, blending the power of creative expression with a clear sense of purpose.

At HOK, we design places where people gather, compete, train, and celebrate-from professional and collegiate sports venues to recreation centers and entertainment destinations. Our Sports + Recreation + Entertainment (SRE) group is seeking a Project Architect to join our Kansas City studio. In this role, you'll partner closely with the Project Manager and Project Designer to lead the technical delivery of high-profile projects-from early design through construction. You'll play a critical role in shaping how projects are documented, coordinated, and built, while mentoring teams and contributing to a culture of technical excellence.

Responsibilities:
Lead Iconic Sports + Recreation + Entertainment Projects

• Champion the design intent for stadiums, arenas, training facilities, recreation centers, and entertainment venues, ensuring it is fully realized in detailed documentation.
• Guide projects from early concept through construction administration, ensuring clarity, consistency, and buildability.
• Lead technical problem-solving and coordination across architecture, structure, MEP, specialty systems, and venue consultants.
• Set document production strategies, including drawing organization, BIM execution, and data management for large, multi-discipline teams.
• Oversee QA reviews and ensure comments are thoughtfully incorporated.
• Supervise, mentor, and inspire architects and technical staff producing complex SRE documentation.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and sustainable design.

Partner with Clients & Stakeholders

• Build trusted relationships with client leadership, operators, and stakeholders.
• Communicate clearly around design intent, technical requirements, schedules, and deliverables.
• Participate in client presentations, milestone reviews, and coordination meetings.
• Participate in business development efforts, pursuits, and client engagement opportunities within the SRE market.

Collaborate Across Disciplines

• Work closely with Principals, consultants, vendors, contractors, and specialty venue partners.
• Coordinate with municipal agencies and authorities having jurisdiction for approvals and variances.
• Attend site visits, field reviews, and construction meetings.
• Review contractor schedules, shop drawings, and submittals-often for complex assemblies unique to SRE projects.
• Support specification development, material research, and integration of HOK Standards.
• Contribute to cost reviews, schedule adherence, and interdisciplinary coordination.
• Integrate sustainable and high-performance design strategies into all phases of work.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture required. Master's degree preferred.
• 5+ years of professional architectural experience, preferably on complex or large-scale sports, recreation or entertainment projects.
• Licensed Architect with current registration (required).
• NCARB registration preferred.
• LEED accreditation or Green Associate preferred.
• A passion for sports, recreation, and entertainment environments, technical leadership, and teamwork.#LI-CN1

You'll collaborate with a team of designers and technical experts shaping world-class venues-places that define cities, elevate fan experience, and support athletes and communities. At HOK, we value curiosity, accountability, mentorship, and design excellence. If you're ready to help create places where unforgettable moments happen, we'd love to hear from you.

#LI-CN1

Many of our roles require the use of specific software. Please refer to the Required and Preferred Software & Skills for details.

HOK invests in its people and communities, supporting both personal and professional growth through every stage of life. At HOK you'll have a hybrid work environment, 10 paid holidays (including 2 floating holidays) and a minimum of 4 weeks of paid time off with a cash out option. HOK offers comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, free mental wellness resources, life and AD&D coverage and short and long-term disability benefits. HOK supports your growing family by offering 4 weeks of paid parental leave and fertility coverage. HOK helps to fund your future financial needs with matching contributions to our 401(K) plan which includes a well-rounded investment menu as well as free guidance on retirement planning.

Wherever you are in your career, HOK provides opportunities to learn, develop and utilize your skills. Continued learning is promoted through financial support and study prep for licensure exams, CEU credit opportunities, mentorship programs, and paid professional memberships. To learn more about designing your career with HOK, explore our current job openings.

HOK is an EOE, including disability/vets.