Senior Lab Planner / Project Architect

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

About the role

We’re seeking a client-facing Senior Lab Planner / Project Architect based out of Los Angeles, San Diego, or San Francisco, CA, to help lead transformative design projects that positively impact communities. This role is a blend of business development (25-35%) and project leadership (65-75%) in the R&D Laboratory/Life Sciences space. You will work with national subject-matter experts and local teams on lab pursuits and projects across the western U.S., with a focus on California.

This is a hybrid position requiring 2-3 days per week in the office and regular travel to construction sites in Southern California.

Responsibilities

• Engage in client-facing business development and project delivery activities, leading lab planning efforts on regional projects in collaboration with national lab-planning SMEs.
• Serve as a project architect and/or design manager on medium-to-large, complex architectural projects across the Cities & Places market.
• Lead architectural design and technical development from early concept through construction documentation and construction contract administration.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams including architecture, engineering, planning, interiors, and specialty consultants.
• Develop and review detailed drawing sets, specifications, building systems, and code compliance documentation.
• Facilitate client presentations, design reviews, and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Lead architectural design team efforts for construction phase services, including RFIs, submittal and shop drawing reviews, construction modification documents, and site observations.
• Ensure the overall quality of design deliverables in adherence with Jacobs’ Quality Program.
• Oversee and manage project design schedules, deliverables, and quality standards to align with scope and client expectations.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and designers, fostering a collaborative project environment.
• Support design strategy, sustainability goals, and digital delivery workflows (BIM/Revit).
• Partner with project managers to manage design risk, resolve technical challenges, and ensure successful execution.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture.
• Licensed Architect (U.S.).
• Minimum 20 years of progressive architectural experience, including leading complex, multi-disciplinary building and infrastructure design projects.
• Demonstrated experience in science and research projects, including wet and dry lab experience.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, and BIM workflows.
• In-depth understanding of building codes and their application to R&D lab projects.
• Understanding of integration of building services, core, and envelope elements as they relate to science and technology projects.
• Experience leading core & shell as well as warm-shell interior fit-out projects alongside a core & shell/developer team.
• Comfort working in a fast-paced, collaborative environment on ground-up and tenant improvement projects.
• Experience coordinating multidisciplinary design teams.
• Strong organizational, communication (verbal, written, and hand sketching), and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Vivarium experience – planning, design, and construction.
• cGMP experience – planning, design, and construction.
• Water Quality Lab experience – planning, design, and construction.
• Experience with alternative delivery models such as Design-Build, Progressive-Design-Build, CMAR, P3, or Integrated Project Delivery.
• Strong design sensibility combined with technical expertise.
• Experience with sustainable design frameworks (LEED, WELL, Envision, etc.).
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams and mentor emerging professionals.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company stock purchase options at a discount.
• Deferred compensation plan or Executive Deferral Plan (for eligible employees).
• Unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) for full-time salaried/exempt employees.
• Seven paid holidays and caregiver leave.
• Eligibility for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $160,700.00 to $251,150.00. Individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.