Senior Director, Facilities Engineering & Design

Smithsonian Institution; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 150,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smithsonian Institution seeks a senior executive to lead its Office of Planning, Design and Construction, directing facilities engineering, architecture, and design excellence. You will advise leadership on policy, standards, and programs, balancing functionality, sustainability, and preservation of historic assets.

You will supervise strategic planning, budgeting, contracting, and performance measurement to deliver world-class facilities that support SI missions and public access.

Qualifications

• Degree in engineering or architecture with relevant accreditation or equivalent experience.
• Experience leading large-scale facilities engineering and design programs.
• Proven ability to manage budgets, contracts, policies, and cross‑functional teams.

Responsibilities

• Serve as principal advisor on facilities engineering, design excellence, accessibility, and stewardship.
• Advise senior leadership on policy, standards, life-cycle management, and program goals.
• Oversee architectural and engineering design, sustainability, safety, and historic preservation.
• Lead long-term planning, budgeting, and performance measurement across OPDC.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Budget management

Policy development

Contract management

Communication

Education

Engineering degree

Architecture background

Job description

The Smithsonian Institution seeks a senior executive to lead its Office of Planning, Design and Construction, directing facilities engineering, architecture, and design excellence. You will advise leadership on policy, standards, and programs, balancing functionality, sustainability, and preservation of historic assets.

You will supervise strategic planning, budgeting, contracting, and performance measurement to deliver world-class facilities that support SI missions and public access.