Project Architect

Lead diverse projects. Take ownership. Grow with Trella.Location: Canberra hybrid
ivic, ACTSalary: $90,000–$120,000 F.T.E +12% Super (depending on experience)Work type: Full-time preferred, flexible arrangements considered
About TrellaTrella Architecture & Interiors is a Canberra-based design studio delivering integrated architecture and interiors across housing, workplace, retail, hospitality, education, recreation, community and commercial sectors. We believe great projects come from balancing creative thinking with technical rigour, and from designing with purpose, place and people in mind.
Our team of around 10 people works across a deliberately diverse portfolio. From award-winning housing and adaptive reuse projects to workplace, hospitality, retail and community environments, we enjoy the variety, challenge and resilience that comes from working across multiple sectors and project scales. Recent project successes include the North Wright Compact Housing project, winner of the ACT Multi-Residential Award, the inaugural Missing Middle Prize and the Derrick Wrigley Sustainable Architecture Award.
People enjoy working at Trella because of the balance we offer: the autonomy and flexibility of a smaller studio, combined with the systems, mentoring and quality processes often associated with much larger practices. Many of our team have been with us for five years or more, reflecting the collaborative culture we've built together.
The OpportunityWe're looking for a Project Architect to join our team and take a leading role in the delivery of diverse and meaningful projects across Canberra and the surrounding region.
This role will suit an experienced architect who enjoys taking ownership of projects, coordinating teams, solving technical challenges and delivering great outcomes for clients. You'll be trusted to lead projects with support from the Directors and senior team, while also contributing to the collaborative design culture that defines our studio.
Projects you would be leading typically range from approximately $3 million to $20 million and span a broad mix of sectors including:
Missing middle, medium-density housingWorkplace and commercial and higher education projectsRetail and hospitality environmentsRecreation and community facilitiesAdaptive reuse, heritage and new build projectsCustom residential projects
What You'll Be DoingLead projects from design development through to deliveryCoordinate consultants, stakeholders and project teamsPrepare and oversee high-quality Revit documentationManage planning, approvals and project submissionsMaintain project programmes, budgets and deliverablesMaintain strong client relationshipsMentor and support graduate and junior staffUndertake site visits and construction phase involvement as requiredContribute to design discussions and project reviews across the studio
What We're Looking ForRegistered Architect highly regardedApplicants working towards immediate registration are encouraged to applyApproximately 5–8+ years professional experienceDemonstrated experience leading projects and coordinating consultantsStrong technical knowledge and understanding of buildabilityStrong Revit capabilityExperience preparing and coordinating documentation packagesExcellent communication and stakeholder management skillsAbility to work independently and manage multiple prioritiesA collaborative and proactive approach
Experience delivering projects through planning approvals and construction documentation in Australia is Essential
Why Join Trella?Diverse projects across multiple sectors and scalesFlexible working arrangements built on trustHybrid work optionsDirect access to Directors and mentoringModern studio in the heart of CivicPaid AIA membershipEnd-of-trip facilitiesProfessional development opportunitiesCollaborative, supportive and low-ego studio cultureGenuine project ownership and responsibilityMost importantly, you'll join a team that values curiosity, collaboration, initiative and good design. We believe people do their best work when they're trusted, supported and given opportunities to grow.
You'll Thrive at Trella If YouEnjoy working across different project types, sectors and scalesLike balancing design thinking with practical project deliveryHave a strong interest in technical design and buildabilityTake ownership of your work and enjoy solving problemsValue collaboration and sharing knowledge with othersEnjoy mentoring and supporting less experienced team membersGenuinely enjoy designing spaces so they work for peopleAppreciate autonomy while being part of a close-knit team
How to ApplyPlease submit your CV, portfolio and a short cover letter outlining your interest in the role.If you're looking for an opportunity to lead projects, influence practice-wide systems and help shape the future of digital delivery within a growing Canberra practice, we'd love to hear from you.
Applicants must have Australian work rights and demonstrated experience delivering projects within the Australian design and construction industry.