About Us
At HDR, we know work isn't only about who you work for; it's also about what you do and how you do it. Led by the strength of our values and a culture shaped by employee ownership, we network with each other, build on each other's contributions, and collaborate together to make great things possible. When you join HDR, we give you licence to do the same. We help you take charge of your career, giving you multiple growth opportunities along the way.
Our workplace is collaborative and diverse, built on a history of controlling our own destiny, putting people first and offering careers that provide for a secure future. At HDR, you are part of a team, surrounded by talent that brings out your best.
Our Opportunity
HDR’s Architecture Business Group is seeking an experienced Lead Site Architect to join our Sydney studio, taking a senior role in the delivery of large, highly technical projects such as data centres, technology facilities, science, defence and aviation projects, through construction documentation, contract administration and site delivery.
This is an outward‑facing role for a confident project leader who thrives in a Tier 1 construction environment, works seamlessly with contractors and consultants, and brings clarity, discipline and commercial acumen to complex site delivery.
Working closely with the Design Team Leader and Project Director, you will assume senior responsibility as projects transition from documentation into delivery, acting as HDR’s primary architectural representative on site.
An on‑site presence of up to three days per week on average is expected, flexing with the delivery lifecycle.
As Lead Site Architect, you will:
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Lead project delivery from late documentation through construction and site phases, ensuring design intent, quality and technical compliance are maintained.
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Act as HDR’s key architectural interface on site, working collaboratively with Head Contractors, consultants and trades while firmly protecting HDR’s commercial and design interests.
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Take a senior leadership role during contract administration, proactively resolving site issues and managing risk.
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Lead and mentor project teams, typically managing 3–6 delivery staff, including Delivery 2ICs and Junior Site Architects.
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Maintain rigorous technical standards, overseeing QA/QC processes across project documentation and site responses.
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Balance strategic oversight, risk management and anticipatory thinking with the realities of fast‑paced site delivery.
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Manage programme, budget and variations in close collaboration with the Project Director.
About You
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Tertiary qualifications in Architecture and current registration.
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Typically 8+ years’ experience, with demonstrated delivery of large, complex projects in a Tier 1 environment.
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Strong construction delivery background with significant site exposure.
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Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex stakeholder environments and operate with a high degree of autonomy.
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Excellent communication skills and a collaborative, solutions‑focused mindset.
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High level of organisation, discipline and commercial awareness.
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Revit capability commensurate with the role, including model navigation, drawing amendments and technical detailing.
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Interest or experience in Digital Engineering and Digital Delivery is highly regarded.
Why HDR
