Process Architect

The Agency Recruiting; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits

Access to industry conferences

Job summary

A leading architectural firm is seeking a highly skilled Senior Architect to lead innovative design solutions in life science and tech projects. This pivotal role involves overseeing multidisciplinary teams to deliver cutting-edge laboratory and office environments, requiring strong leadership and a deep understanding of industry standards. The firm offers competitive compensation and a commitment to sustainability and professional development.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 10 years of architectural design experience.
• At least 5 years focused on life science, lab, and tech projects.
• Proficiency in design software like Revit and AutoCAD.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design and development of life science projects.
• Manage project documentation and compliance with industry standards.
• Provide mentorship and technical leadership to junior architects.

Skills

Architectural design experience

Leadership

Technical proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD

Life science and tech facility knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

BIM 360

Job description

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.