Senior Campus Design Director & Architect

Society for College and University Planning (SCUP); Merced (CA); On-site; USD 155,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

University of California Merced is seeking a licensed California Architect to lead capital projects from initiation through construction. You will oversee planning, design review, and sustainability efforts while coordinating with regulatory bodies and campus stakeholders in a complex university setting.

The role requires at least six years of relevant experience, a strong track record in large-scale projects, and the ability to manage multiple consultants and teams to deliver high-quality

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Urban Planning, or related field (required)
• Advanced degree (preferred) in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management, Urban Planning, or related field
• Six years of directly related progressively responsible experience in planning and design of capital projects
• Must be a licensed California Architect issued by the California Architects Board (CAB) or able to obtain license within 6 months
• Demonstrated ability to manage large-scale design and construction projects and complex stakeholder coordination
• Familiarity with UC Facilities Manual, California Building Code (CBC), and State Fire Marshal (SFM) processes

Responsibilities

• Lead initiation and planning of capital projects, defining scope and selecting consultants
• Oversee land use and planning documents (LRDP), CEQA-related work, and regulatory coordination
• Chair campus design review process for architectural proposals and ensure adherence to guidelines
• Provide campus-side support during construction by reviewing submittals, RFIs, and attending meetings
• Lead architect/engineer consultant selection, contracting, and performance oversight
• Provide strategic leadership for campus aesthetics, design excellence, and sustainability
• Represent UC Merced in design engagements with colleges, departments, committees, and external partners
• Prepare executive-level reports on design quality, plan implementation, and project performance
• Supervise Project Directors and design staff, fostering design excellence
• Manage furniture program (FF&E) focus on Major Capital projects and stakeholder prioritization

Skills

Project leadership

Stakeholder coordination

Construction management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture / Engineering / Construction Management / Urban Planning

Advanced degree in Architecture / Engineering / Construction Management / Urban Planning

Job description

University of California Merced is seeking a licensed California Architect to lead capital projects from initiation through construction. You will oversee planning, design review, and sustainability efforts while coordinating with regulatory bodies and campus stakeholders in a complex university setting.

The role requires at least six years of relevant experience, a strong track record in large-scale projects, and the ability to manage multiple consultants and teams to deliver high-quality