Your Role

Discoveries made in science-based industries are changing our world. The shift in laboratory research from the bench top to the laptop changes the workplace landscape in biotech, pharmaceuticals, and other sectors engaged in science-based R&D. The trend is toward integrating lab and non-lab facilities. This reflects changes in technology and a greater emphasis on collaboration across multidisciplinary teams. We're helping industry-leading clients find scientific, sustainable solutions to global problems with workplaces that responsibly embrace the future.

Gensler Seattle is seeking a Design Director with pre-design, programming & laboratory planning and knowledge of specialty architectural environments. You are a subject matter expert in the planning and design of large lab projects - research and clinical labs, vivarium or other technical lab types. Utilizing exceptional client relationship skills, and a portfolio of innovative, resilient design solutions with an emphasis on built work, you will work collaboratively to develop overall design concepts, formulate design presentation strategies and provide creative and process leadership to multiple design teams through all phases of projects.

What You Will Do

• Lead the design process for projects of all scales and types within the Sciences practice including guidance of other designers to develop cohesive, innovative, and client-centric solutions

• Offer and support creative, sustainability-focused laboratory planning and design decisions that are in line with project goals, while pushing the envelope beyond traditional approaches to lab design, particularly in private industry

• Collaborate with all involved design teams to deliver informed project solutions based on market expertise and deep understanding of client goals

• Lead the relationships with the client, contractor, agencies, as well as engineering and specialty consultants

• Work closely with office leadership to identify and recruit best-in-class talent

• Actively mentor staff in their growth in the profession and the practice area

• Work with office and regional leadership in business development efforts to grow our Sciences practice in the Northwest region through expanding existing client relationships and developing new relationships and diversifying our lines of work

• Provide vision for proposals and strategy for interviews to secure project opportunities

• Assist in the development of standard materials that describe the portfolio, systems, and processes of the Sciences practice

• Strengthen our market reputation and image through thought leadership that is based on value proposition and a differentiated Point of View

• Advance our reputation through conference presentations, authoring publications and active social media presence

• Partner with office directors to establish budgetary framework and investment strategies for growing the practice

Your Qualifications

• Licensed architect with Bachelor's degree or higher in Architecture with at least 15+ years of architectural or related experience, inclusive of 10+ years' experience leading the design of lab and life sciences facilities

• Revit experience required

• Registered architect preferred

• LEED accredited preferred

• Knowledge of laboratory programming delivery and how design impacts those systems -including space, operational, and equipment programming, as well as MEP systems and casework

• Demonstrated experience developing relationships with new and existing clients

• Substantial experience working directly with senior management representatives, scientists, laboratory managers and technicians, facilities and project managers, and other project stakeholders in determining and documenting programmatic requirements

• Leadership experience, including managing client expectations, multi-disciplinary team, and meeting scope/schedule/budget

• Advanced knowledge of the architectural planning and design process, construction documentation, construction administration and code requirements

• Possess strong presentation skills with the ability to articulate ideas in interviews and other presentations

• Adept at storytelling, engaging as a communicator and inspiring with an energetic personality

• Skilled at developing and motivating teams of people both internally and externally, along with a desire to mentor team members

• Demonstrated commitment to sustainability and sustainable building practices required. Portfolios should include at least 1 project with this particular focus, and candidates should be prepared to talk to this in their interview, especially built projects with LEED, Living Building Challenge, WELL Building Standard , Fitwell and /or Net Zero Building certification.

Life at Gensler

At Gensler, we are as committed to enjoying life as we are to delivering best-in-class design. From curated art exhibits to internal design competitions to Wellbeing Week, our offices reflect our people's diverse interests. We encourage every person at Gensler to lead a healthy and balanced life.

Our comprehensive benefits include medical, dental, vision, disability, wellness programs, flex spending, paid holidays, and paid time off. We also offer a 401K, profit sharing, employee stock ownership, and twice annual bonus opportunities.

As part of the firm's commitment to licensure and professional development, Gensler offers reimbursement for certain professional licenses and associated renewals and exam fees. In addition, we reimburse tuition for certain eligible programs or classes. We view our professional development programs as strategic investments in our future.

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