Senior Architectural Lab Planner

Clayco; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary Annual Bonus

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Job summary

LJC is seeking a Lab Planner to lead planning, programming, and design of complex laboratory facilities in the Life Sciences sector. You will work with scientists and design teams to deliver high-performance, flexible, and compliant environments.

Responsibilities include developing layouts and workflows, integrating safety, sustainability, and regulatory considerations, and mentoring junior staff. Travel to client sites may be required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Laboratory Planning, Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in laboratory planning and design within life sciences.
• Professional licensure (RA) preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, programming, and design of laboratory and research facilities across a range of life sciences project types.
• Develop laboratory layouts, workflows, and spatial requirements that optimize functionality, flexibility, safety, and long-term adaptability.
• Integrate technical, operational, regulatory, and sustainability considerations into laboratory planning and design solutions.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to develop innovative, efficient, and buildable laboratory designs.
• Support compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards including NIH, CDC, BSL, GMP, ISO, and LEED.

Skills

Communication

Team collaboration

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Presentation skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture/Laboratory Planning/Engineering

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Job description

Lab Planner

LJC is looking to hire a Lab Planner to serve as a key technical resource within the Life Sciences market sector. The Lab Planner will support the planning, programming, and design of complex laboratory and research facilities, working closely with clients, scientists, and multidisciplinary design teams to deliver high-performance, flexible, and compliant environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, programming, and design of laboratory and research facilities across a range of life sciences project types.
• Develop laboratory layouts, workflows, and spatial requirements that optimize functionality, flexibility, safety, and long-term adaptability.
• Integrate technical, operational, regulatory, and sustainability considerations into laboratory planning and design solutions.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and consultants to develop innovative, efficient, and buildable laboratory designs.
• Support compliance with applicable health, safety, and regulatory standards, including NIH, CDC, BSL, GMP, ISO, and LEED requirements.
• Plan and coordinate laboratory casework, furniture, equipment, and utility requirements in alignment with user needs and design intent.
• Work closely with scientists, researchers, and facility stakeholders to understand workflows and translate them into clear planning and design solutions.
• Facilitate or support user group meetings, workshops, and presentations to communicate planning concepts and gather feedback.
• Support or manage multiple lab planning efforts from concept through design development, coordinating scope, budget, and schedule expectations.
• Mentor junior lab planners, architects, and designers, supporting professional development and technical growth.
• Support business development efforts through proposal contributions, planning concepts, and participation in client interviews and presentations.
• Promote a culture of one-team collaboration across disciplines and offices.
• Travel, as required, to support client engagement, project pursuits, and planning efforts.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture, Laboratory Planning, Engineering, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in laboratory planning and design within life sciences.
• Professional licensure (RA) preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding of laboratory typologies, equipment, operational needs, and planning strategies.
• Knowledge of building codes, laboratory safety guidelines, and industry regulations.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and other relevant planning and design tools.
• Strong problem‑solving, analytical, and critical‑thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities, including client‑facing presentations.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and clients.
• LEED accreditation or demonstrated knowledge of sustainable laboratory design preferred.
• Experience with biosafety level (BSL) laboratories and/or cleanroom environments preferred.

Benefits

• Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401(k), generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

Compensation

• The salary range for this position considers a wide range of factors in making compensation decisions including but not limited to education, qualifications, skills, training, experience, certifications, internal equity, and location. Compensation decisions are dependent on the facts and circumstances of each case.