Lab Architect​/Lab Planner

Project Architect - Science & Technology A leading global architecture and design practice is expanding its San Francisco Science & Technology studio following continued growth across its life sciences, biotechnology and advanced-research portfolio. We are seeking an experienced Project Architect who understands that laboratory planning and building-services coordination are fundamental parts of the design-not secondary technical considerations. This is not a conventional project-management position.

You will be responsible for protecting the research function itself: ensuring the architecture and building systems support the science while maintaining design intent through permitting, documentation, value engineering and construction.

• Lead the design and technical delivery of sophisticated laboratory, biotechnology and advanced-research projects.
• Translate requirements such as vibration control, air-change rates, containment and chemical exhaust into effective design solutions-and clearly explain their cost and programme implications.
• Direct project documentation, drawing production and quality-control reviews across every phase.
• Coordinate architecture, interiors and laboratory planning with mechanical, electrical, plumbing and process-engineering consultants.
• Act as a trusted technical adviser to clients, researchers and facilities teams.
• Lead building-code, life-safety, hazardous-materials and authority-review submissions for complex laboratory occupancies.
• Oversee construction administration on technically demanding projects where details can directly affect scientific operations.
• Lead productive design reviews, workshops and charrettes that result in clear decisions.
• Mentor junior team members and strengthen their judgment on complex, highly serviced buildings.
• Support selected proposals, interviews and new-business pursuits.

You will ideally bring:

• At least 8-10 years of architectural experience.
• An active architectural licence.
• Substantial experience delivering life sciences, laboratory or advanced-research environments.
• Strong knowledge of building, zoning, energy, life-safety and hazardous-materials codes.
• Experience taking projects from early design studies through contract documents, specifications and construction.
• Confidence coordinating MEP-intensive projects with engineering and specialist consultants.
• The ability to communicate highly technical information clearly to clients and project teams.
• Vivarium experience would be particularly valuable.

• Advanced Revit capability.
• Experience with Rhino and Grasshopper for conceptual or computational modelling.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 and Adobe Creative Cloud.
• Familiarity with Enscape, Lumion or V-Ray.
• Experience with physical-modelling tools such as 3D printing or laser cutting is beneficial.
• Knowledge of environmental-analysis platforms such as Ladybug or Climate Studio would be advantageous.

• Bachelor's degree in architecture or a related discipline.
• Architectural licence.
• LEED Green Associate accreditation-or willingness to achieve it shortly after joining.
• A relevant advanced sustainability, wellbeing or building-performance credential is preferred.

• Salary of $100,000-$150,000 , depending on experience, qualifications and technical expertise.
• Medical, dental and vision insurance.
• 401(k) retirement plan and paid time off.
• Performance-related bonus opportunities.
• Professional-development funding and dedicated continuing-education time.
Access to firmwide professional networks and leadership-development programmes.
• A collaborative San Francisco studio within a highly regarded international practice.
• The opportunity to deliver technically ambitious projects for leading scientific and research organisations.
• The practice is committed to creating an inclusive workplace in which people from different backgrounds and perspectives can contribute, develop and progress equitably.