Senior Space Planner

Senior Space Planner

The Senior Space Planner supports strategic and operational space planning across George Mason University's campuses, including Fairfax, Manassas, Arlington, and satellite locations. Reporting to the Director of Interiors and Space Planning, this role plays a key part in evaluating space needs, analyzing utilization data, and coordinating space assignments and moves. The Space Planner is the primary data owner and user of Mason's space management platforms ensuring data integrity and usability to support decision-making.

While not responsible for IT administration, the Space Planner works closely with Facilities IT and other stakeholders to ensure systems meet planning needs.

Responsibilities include:

• Collaborating with the Director to manage the space request including reviewing requests and developing recommendations aligned with institutional priorities.
• Ensuring collaboration with project managers, and move coordinators to assess space needs, assign space, and coordinate moves across academic, administrative, and research units.
• Analyzing space utilization data to identify inefficiencies, opportunities for consolidation, and areas for reallocation or redesign.
• Developing space programs and concept diagrams that reflect unit needs, institutional priorities, and progressive space use models.
• Conducting space feasibility assessments, including adjacency studies, occupancy modeling, and fit plans.
• Supporting the development of long-term space plans as part of the annual budget cycle, incorporating historical context, leadership vision, and competing priorities.
• Participating in planning meetings with unit stakeholders to gather requirements, document space needs, and propose solutions.
• Maintaining awareness of industry benchmarks and trends in higher education space planning to inform recommendations.

Required qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in space planning, facilities data management, or related functions in higher education, corporate, or institutional settings.
• Demonstrated knowledge of space management software such as Archibus, AutoCAD, or similar platforms.
• Demonstrated knowledge of space utilization metrics and how to apply them to planning decisions.
• Skill in analyzing space data and translating findings into actionable recommendations.
• Skill in managing complex datasets and maintaining accurate records.
• Skill in coordinating space assignments and moves in collaboration with project managers and move coordinators.
• Skill in developing space programs, concept diagrams, and feasibility assessments.
• Ability to communicate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including academic and administrative units.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to synthesize complex data into executive-level presentations and infographics.
• Ability to support continuous improvement in space planning processes and technologies.

Preferred qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in related field.
• B.S. in interior design preferred.
• Experience working in a higher education environment.
• Experience supporting move coordination and space assignment processes.
• Knowledge of SCHEV reporting requirements and F&A functionalization audits.
• Familiarity with GIS, Lambent, eBuilder, and Microsoft Teams integration for space planning.

Instructions to applicants:

For full consideration, applicants must apply for Senior Space Planner at . Complete and submit the online application to include three professional references with contact information, and provide a resume for review.