Senior Architect – Mission Critical (Columbus)

Burns & McDonnell; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

ESOP

401(k) retirement plan

Job summary

Burns & McDonnell is seeking a licensed architect with 8+ years of experience to lead mission-critical data center architecture projects in Columbus, OH. You will guide design teams, coordinate with clients and regulators, ensure design intent, and drive high-quality construction documentation.

The role emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and technical excellence across BIM, renderings, and detailing, with opportunities to mentor staff and advance within a multibillion-dollar practice.

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree in Architecture from an NAAB accredited program; 8+ years related experience.
• Master Degree in Architecture from an NAAB accredited program; 7+ years related experience.
• Registered architect preferred.
• Portfolio demonstrating design and graphic presentation skills preferred.
• Expert knowledge of building codes, ADA standards, exterior envelope design, detailing, and specification writing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience leading design teams for large, complex projects; delegation and client coordination.
• Proficient with BIM (Revit) and 3D rendering tools.

Responsibilities

• Provide project team leadership and coordination for finished plans, specification, and material selections; ensure design intent is incorporated into construction documentation.
• Mentor and lead teams in the production of accurate technical and contract documentation for project construction.
• Mentor and lead construction administration duties including bid review, site visits, addressing technical issues, and improving quality during construction.
• Work with government and regulatory agencies to achieve project schedule and objectives.
• Manage, mentor and recruit talent including resources to produce 3D renderings and critical presentations.

Skills

Communication skills

Leadership

Team collaboration

Problem solving

Critical thinking

Organization

Education

Bachelor Degree in Architecture

Master Degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

Adobe Creative Suite

3D rendering software

Job description

Description

Burns & McDonnell is a company comprised of more than 14,000 engineers, architects, construction professionals, scientists, consultants, and entrepreneurs with offices across the country and throughout the world. Burns & McDonnell’s Mission Critical team was ranked #1 by the ENR in 2025. We have exciting opportunities for those interested in growing their careers in one of the most fast‑paced, innovative sectors of high‑tech building design and construction. Project focus would be mission‑critical data center projects. This opportunity hires directly into our Mission Critical team and into a multibillion‑dollar industry that is growing exponentially. Data Centers are an aggressive market for Burns & McDonnell and are highlighted by several priority articles on our site. Mission Critical is an international practice for Burns & McDonnell involving exciting, collaborative work across many departments.

Responsibilities

• Provide project team leadership and coordination for finished plans, specification, and material selections; ensure design intent is incorporated into the construction documentation.
• Mentor and lead teams in the production of accurate technical and contract documentation for project construction.
• Mentor and lead construction administration duties including; bid review and support, site visits, address technical issues, and improve quality during construction.
• Work with government and regulatory agencies to achieve overall project schedule and objectives.
• Manage, mentor and recruit talent including resources to produce 3D software renderings and critical presentations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor Degree in Architecture from an NAAB accredited program and 8 years related experience required.
• Master Degree in Architecture from an NAAB accredited program and 7 years related experience required.
• Minimum eight years of architectural experience preferred.
• Registered architect preferred.
• Portfolio demonstrating design and graphic presentation skills is preferred.
• Expert knowledge of standard architectural concepts, including building codes, ADA standards, exterior envelope design, technical detailing, and specification writing.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a problem‑solving environment and demonstrate critical thinking skills.
• Expert software and computer skills preferred, including BIM (Revit), Adobe Creative Suite, and 3D rendering software.
• Strong attention to detail, facilitation, team building, collaboration, and organization.
• Experience in leading design teams for large, complex projects, delegating tasks, and guiding internal and client groups towards successful design outcomes.
• Ability to conduct detailed quality reviews of architectural documents.
• Experience with construction phase activities, including site visits, shop drawing review, and correspondence with contractors and client.
• Ability to travel.

Benefits

Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee‑owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.
Our extensive benefits package takes care of you so that you can focus on doing great work. From insurance and disability to time off and wellness programs, we provide the tools to meet your needs. As part of being 100% employee‑owned, eligible employees participate in our Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) in addition to our 401(k) retirement program. For more information, please visit the Benefits & Wellness page.

Job Architecture

Primary Location: US-OH-Columbus

Schedule: Full-time

Travel: Yes, 25 % of the Time