Location
San Francisco CA
Industry
Architecture

Job Overview

Our client, a leading architectural firm specializing in innovative design solutions, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Architect with extensive experience in life science, lab, and technology-driven projects. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading the design, planning, and execution of cutting-edge laboratory facilities, research environments, and high-tech office spaces, delivering projects that meet the evolving needs of the life science and tech industries. This position requires a strategic leader who can oversee multidisciplinary teams, ensure compliance with rigorous standards, and integrate sustainable and advanced technological approaches to create world-class facilities.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the architectural design and development of life science projects, including vivariums, cleanrooms, BSL-3/BSL-4 labs, and biotech research facilities, from conceptual design through construction administration.
  • Oversee the planning and design of technology-driven office campuses and innovation hubs, ensuring alignment with client goals, operational efficiency, and future scalability.
  • Collaborate with engineers, consultants, and stakeholders to integrate specialized systems such as HVAC, MEP, and lab equipment, maintaining compliance with industry standards (e.g., ASHRAE, NIH guidelines) and local building codes.
  • Manage project documentation, including schematic design (SD), design development (DD), construction documents (CD), and permitting processes, utilizing advanced BIM workflows.
  • Provide mentorship and technical leadership to junior architects and design teams, fostering a culture of innovation and excellence on projects ranging from $10M to $100M+.
  • Conduct feasibility studies and space programming for lab and tech facilities, optimizing layouts for functionality, safety, and sustainability.
  • Ensure adherence to environmental regulations and sustainable design principles, incorporating energy-efficient systems and materials into project designs.
  • Present design concepts and progress updates to clients and regulatory bodies, maintaining strong communication and relationship management throughout the project lifecycle.

Qualifications

  • Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited program; professional licensure (e.g., RA or equivalent) required.
  • Experience: Minimum of 10 years of architectural design experience, with at least 5 years focused on life science, lab, and tech projects, including vivariums, cleanrooms, and corporate tech campuses.
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, BIM 360, and other design software; familiarity with Enscape or Lumion for visualization is a plus.
  • Industry Knowledge: Deep understanding of life science and tech facility requirements, including lab ventilation, containment systems, and IT infrastructure integration.
  • Leadership: Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and manage complex projects, with experience in client-facing roles and consultant coordination.
  • Certifications: LEED AP or equivalent sustainability certification preferred; knowledge of ASHRAE or NIH guidelines is highly desirable.
  • Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present to diverse stakeholders and navigate permitting processes effectively.

Preferred Skills

  • Experience with phased construction sequencing for active lab environments.
  • Track record of delivering award-winning or high-profile life science/tech projects.
  • Familiarity with federal and state regulations specific to lab safety and biotech facilities.

Why Join Our Client?

Our client offers a collaborative and innovative work environment, with opportunities to shape the future of life science and technology infrastructure. They provide competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and a commitment to professional development, including access to industry conferences and continuing education. Based in a thriving hub of innovation, the firm is dedicated to sustainability and cutting-edge design, making it an ideal place for a Senior Architect to advance their career.