Architect Senior – Design Manager - Labs

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architect Senior – Design Manager - Labs

Company: Arizona State University

Location: Tempe, Arizona, United States

Job Type: Full time

Category: Facilities Management & Development / Architecture & Design

Date Posted: August 18, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees the planning, architectural layouts, and technical specifications for complex laboratory, advanced manufacturing, and research-centered projects, acting as the owner's Design Manager on behalf of the University Architect.

• Manages multidisciplinary A/E and Construction teams, ensuring strict adherence to building codes, lab safety regulations, and ASU Guidelines.

• Drives project execution from definition through design phases, meticulously managing scope, budget, and schedule to align with user needs and institutional goals.

• Provides technical oversight and ensures compliance with construction documents, details, and specifications for capital projects.

• Facilitates crucial coordination with internal FDM departments and external regulatory agencies for permitting, approvals, and clearances.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is highly specialized, focusing on technically sophisticated facilities. The "Design Manager" title, coupled with the emphasis on lab and research projects, indicates a need for deep technical expertise in specialized environments beyond typical architectural practice. The "owner's representative" aspect means a strong focus on project delivery, stakeholder management, and ensuring university interests are met throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary owner's representative for the University Architect on all laboratory, advanced manufacturing, and research-focused capital projects from inception through construction completion.

• Lead and manage multidisciplinary design and construction teams, including architects, engineers, consultants, and contractors, to ensure project objectives are met.

• Develop, track, and manage project scope, budgets, and schedules throughout the Project Definition and Design phases, providing regular updates and reports.

• Conduct thorough technical reviews of architectural and engineering design documents, details, and specifications, ensuring compliance with all applicable codes, standards, and university requirements.

• Coordinate and manage projects in strict accordance with Arizona Board of Regents policies, ASU Guidelines, and all relevant federal, state, and local regulations.

• Review and approve work submitted by consulting architects and construction managers, verifying adherence to contractual obligations and quality standards.

• Provide expert consultation and guidance to outside consultants on space planning, architectural guidelines, campus planning initiatives, and institutional objectives.

• Collaborate effectively with a diverse group of stakeholders, including internal FDM departments (e.g., permitting, historic preservation, asbestos abatement), landscape architects, interior designers, and environmental graphics staff.

• May be responsible for supervising the activities of subordinate staff members and junior project team members.

• Critically analyze project data and present relevant findings, recommendations, and status updates to senior leadership and project stakeholders.

• Champion and integrate the institution's sustainability programs and initiatives into project designs and construction practices.

• Adapt quickly to changing project priorities, resolve conflicts, and manage multiple complex tasks simultaneously in a dynamic environment.

• Communicate effectively and professionally, both verbally and in writing, with all project stakeholders to ensure clarity and alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role focused on project delivery and technical oversight within specialized facility types. The emphasis on "owner's representative" and managing "multidisciplinary A/E and Construction teams" suggests a need for strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills, in addition to architectural expertise.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related field.

• Desired: Registered as an Architect in the State of Arizona OR NCARB (National Council of Architectural Registration Boards) Certification with the ability to obtain Arizona licensure within six (6) months of hire.

Experience:

• Minimum of five (5) years of experience appropriate to the area of assignment, with a strong emphasis on project management in design and construction.

• Desired:

  • Eight (8) years of architectural design experience in interior tenant improvements, renovations, and additions, specifically for laboratory, office, or classroom environments.

  • Proven experience with technically sophisticated facilities such as Semiconductor Manufacturing, Cleanrooms, Wet and Dry Laboratories, Process Piping, and Mission Critical environments.

  • Experience in Construction Administration and Field Observations.

  • Experience managing multiple projects and coordinating design teams to ensure compliance with program statements.

  • Experience managing various project delivery methods including Job Order Contract (JOC), Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR), and Design Build (DB).

  • Experience in a higher education or municipal government environment. Required Skills:

• Deep understanding of architectural design principles, practices, and techniques.

• Proficiency in reviewing and interpreting federal and state building and accessibility code requirements, including Life Safety and International Building Codes.

• Demonstrated ability to develop test fits and perform space planning for complex facilities.

• Strong project management skills, including scope definition, budget development, and schedule management.

• Excellent technical oversight capabilities for construction documents, details, and specifications.

• Ability to effectively manage and coordinate the work of design consultants and construction teams.

• Strong analytical and critical thinking skills for problem-solving and data presentation.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for stakeholder engagement and team collaboration. Preferred Skills:

• Experience conducting, interpreting, and preparing building condition assessments.

• Proficiency in preparing project budgets during the conceptual design phase.

• Knowledge of building systems, materials, and construction methods.

• Understanding of structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering systems as they relate to overall building construction and costs.

• Familiarity with Means Cost Estimating, Uni-Format, or other industry construction cost guides.

• Experience with ASU Guidelines and university-specific standards.

• Evidence of effective communication skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between minimum and desired qualifications is significant. The "desired" qualifications, particularly the experience with specialized facilities and project delivery methods like CMAR and Design Build, are critical for success in this role and should be highlighted by candidates. The Arizona Architect license or NCARB certification with a path to licensure is a key requirement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex architectural projects, with a strong emphasis on laboratory, research, or advanced manufacturing facilities.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, responsibilities, and contributions, particularly in design management and owner's representation.

• Include examples of technical documents you've reviewed or developed, such as architectural details, specifications excerpts, or code compliance reports.

• Demonstrate your project management capabilities by presenting project timelines, budget summaries, and any scope adjustments or challenges overcome.

• Highlight your experience with different project delivery methods (e.g., JOC, CMAR, Design Build) if applicable. Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and managing project scopes, budgets, and schedules from initiation through the design phases.

• Documentation of your process for reviewing and approving design documents and construction administration activities.

• Examples of how you have coordinated with various stakeholders, including regulatory agencies and internal departments, to achieve project milestones.

• Case studies illustrating your approach to ensuring compliance with building codes, lab safety codes, and institutional guidelines.

• Examples of how you have integrated sustainability initiatives into project designs.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It needs to go beyond just showcasing completed buildings; it must demonstrate the candidate's ability to manage complex technical projects, navigate regulatory environments, and act effectively as an owner's representative. The focus should be on process, problem-solving, and technical rigor.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $85,000 - $88,400 annually. This range is commensurate with experience and education. Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package through the State of Arizona.

• Health Insurance: Medical coverage options.

• Dental Insurance: Dental coverage options.

• Vision Insurance: Vision coverage options.

• Life Insurance: Basic life insurance coverage.

• Tuition Reduction Program: Available for staff members, their spouses, and dependents from day one.

• Paid Parental Leave: 12 weeks of paid leave following the birth or adoption of a child.

• Retirement Program: Participation in the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS).

• Paid Time Off:

  • 22 days of accrued vacation leave annually.
  • 12 days of accrued sick leave annually.
  • 10 paid holidays annually.

• Wellness Program: Opportunities for preventative health education and screenings.

• Employee Assistance Services: Free and confidential support for personal and life challenges.

• ASU Discounts: Access to discounts for sports/events and ASU partnerships.

Working Hours:

• Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (40 hours per week).

• Flexibility may be available, but the role requires on-site presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is specific. The benefits package is extensive and typical for a large public university, emphasizing work-life balance and employee well-being, which can be a significant draw for candidates. The "commensurate with experience and education" clause allows for negotiation within the stated range.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Higher Education / Public University / Facilities Management & Development

Company Size: ASU is a very large public university system with over 100,000 students and thousands of employees across multiple campuses. Facilities Development and Management (FDM) is a significant department within this large organization.

Founded: Arizona State University was founded in 1885. Facilities Development and Management (FDM) is the department responsible for maintaining and developing all university-owned property.

Team Structure:

• The Architect Senior will be part of the Office of the University Architect (OUA), within Facilities Development Management (FDM).

• OUA plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the university and stewardship of its resources through campus development and facility management.

• The role involves managing and coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, including internal FDM departments, external consultants (A/E firms), and construction managers.

• The reporting structure will likely involve reporting to a higher-level director or the University Architect, with the potential to supervise junior staff or project team members.

• Collaboration is expected across various FDM departments (e.g., permitting, historic preservation, asbestos clearances) and with campus stakeholders. Methodology:

• The OUA and FDM departments are focused on strategic campus development, sustainable facility creation, and quality customer service.

• Emphasis is placed on data-driven decision-making, effective resource stewardship, and meeting the university's evolving needs through creative and collaborative efforts.

• Project management methodologies will likely align with industry best practices, potentially incorporating elements of Agile or Waterfall depending on the project phase and delivery method.

• Integration of sustainability programs into project lifecycle is a key methodology.

Company Website: https://www.asu.edu/

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a large public university like ASU means operating within a structured environment with established processes and a mission-driven culture. The Facilities Development and Management department is critical to the university's physical infrastructure and growth. The emphasis on collaboration and sustainability is a key cultural aspect.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a Senior Architect/Design Manager position, representing a significant level of responsibility and expertise within the architectural and construction management field, specifically for specialized facilities. It is a mid-to-senior level role requiring substantial experience and independent decision-making.

Reporting Structure: The Architect Senior will report to higher management within the Office of the University Architect (OUA) or Facilities Development Management (FDM). They will, in turn, manage and coordinate external design professionals and construction teams, and may supervise junior staff.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the university's ability to conduct cutting-edge research, advanced manufacturing, and critical academic functions by ensuring the successful design and construction of specialized facilities. The quality and functionality of these spaces directly influence research output, student learning, and institutional reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specialized facility design (labs, cleanrooms, advanced manufacturing) and project delivery methods (CMAR, Design Build).

• Leadership: Advance into roles such as Lead Design Manager, Director of Project Management, or potentially Assistant University Architect.

• Cross-Functional Development: Gain exposure to other areas of facilities management, campus planning, and university operations.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued education, professional certifications, and participation in industry conferences.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor junior architects and project managers within the OUA/FDM team.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within a large, stable institution. The specialized nature of the projects provides an opportunity to become a subject matter expert. Growth is likely to involve increased project portfolio size, complexity, and leadership responsibilities within the FDM structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is primarily based at ASU's Tempe campus in an office setting, but will require working from other ASU campuses depending on operational needs, suggesting a hybrid approach to site visits and project oversight across locations.

Office Location(s):

• Primary: University Services Building, 1551 S. Rural Road, Tempe, AZ.

• Secondary: Other ASU campuses as required by project needs. Workspace Context:

• The role involves a mix of office-based work (planning, design reviews, documentation, reporting) and significant time spent on project sites for observations and coordination.

• The environment is described as environmentally controlled office settings, but also involves extended periods of sitting, keyboarding, and computer use, along with physical requirements like standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting up to 25 pounds.

• Driving a University vehicle or cart to campus sites is a requirement, indicating a need for mobility across campus.

• The collaborative nature of the role means frequent interaction with internal teams, external consultants, and contractors. Work Schedule:

• Standard Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM schedule.

• The nature of project management may occasionally require flexibility to meet project deadlines or address urgent site issues, but the core hours are defined.

📝 Enhancement Note: This is an on-site role with significant fieldwork. The description highlights the physical demands and the need for a valid driver's license, which are important practical considerations for candidates. The "environmentally controlled office setting" is standard, but the "walk moderate distances" and "drives University vehicle" indicate an active component.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Application Submission: Submit a cover letter and resume/CV through the ASU Workday Jobs Hub. Ensure all required materials are uploaded and clearly labeled.

• Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed against the minimum and desired qualifications. Candidates with relevant experience in specialized facilities and project delivery methods will likely be prioritized.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions about your architectural design experience, project management methodologies, code compliance knowledge, and specific experience with lab/research facilities. You may be asked to walk through your portfolio.

• Case Study/Problem-Solving Exercise: A potential exercise could involve reviewing a design scenario, identifying potential issues, or proposing solutions for a specific lab or research facility challenge.

• Behavioral Interview: Questions will assess your communication skills, leadership style, ability to manage stakeholders, problem-solving approach, and cultural fit with ASU's values.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with senior leadership or the hiring committee.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience with laboratory, research, advanced manufacturing, or similarly complex facilities. Prioritize projects where you held a significant design management or owner's representative role.

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state your responsibilities, the project's scope, budget, timeline, and any key challenges you helped overcome. Use metrics where possible (e.g., budget adherence, schedule performance, space utilization improvements).

• Demonstrate Process: Explain your approach to design review, code compliance, stakeholder coordination, and risk management. Show, don't just tell, how you ensure quality and adherence to standards.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss specific design elements, building systems, materials, and construction methods relevant to specialized facilities.

• ASU Context: If possible, tailor your presentation to highlight how your experience aligns with ASU's mission, sustainability goals, and specific facility needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Code Knowledge: Brush up on Arizona building codes, lab safety standards (e.g., OSHA, ANSI), and relevant ASHRAE guidelines for specialized environments.

• Project Delivery Methods: Understand the nuances of JOC, CMAR, and Design Build, including their pros and cons from an owner's perspective.

• Stakeholder Management: Prepare examples of how you've managed difficult stakeholders, resolved conflicts, and facilitated consensus.

• Sustainability Integration: Be ready to discuss how you incorporate sustainable design principles and materials into projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes thoroughness. Candidates must ensure their resume clearly demonstrates how they meet the qualifications, and the portfolio must be meticulously prepared to showcase relevant experience. The "Instructions to Apply" section is quite detailed, so applicants should pay close attention to all requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Autodesk AutoCAD (required), Revit (demonstrated knowledge preferred). SketchUp for electronic sketching is also mentioned.

• Project Management Information Software (PMIS): Experience with PMIS programs is listed as desired.

• Document Review Software: Bluebeam Revue is specifically mentioned as a desired skill.

• Cost Estimating Tools: Experience with Means Cost Estimating or other industry construction cost guides is desired.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is explicitly required. Excel will likely be used extensively for budget tracking, scheduling, and data analysis.

• Ability to think critically and present relevant data and information is a key requirement, implying skills in data synthesis and presentation. CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly listed as CRM, the role involves managing numerous external consultants and internal stakeholders, requiring strong communication and organizational tools (like Outlook and PMIS).

• Automation is not a primary focus of this role description, which is more centered on traditional design management and oversight.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in AutoCAD is a baseline requirement, while Revit experience is highly desirable given its prevalence in modern architectural practice. Bluebeam Revue is a critical tool for document review and collaboration in construction, so experience here is a strong plus. The emphasis on Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, highlights the need for strong analytical and reporting skills.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Design & Construction: A commitment to high-quality, functional, and technically sound facilities that meet specific research and operational needs.

• Stewardship of Resources: Responsible management of budgets, schedules, and university assets to ensure efficient and effective project delivery.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working effectively with diverse teams, including internal departments, external consultants, and contractors, to achieve shared goals.

• Sustainability: Integration of environmentally responsible design and construction practices into all projects.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative solutions and embracing new technologies and methodologies to improve facility design and performance.

• Customer Focus: A dedication to understanding and meeting the needs of internal clients (researchers, faculty, students) and external stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration with various ASU departments (FDM, OUA, permitting, historic preservation) and external entities.

• Proactive Communication: A style that emphasizes clear, timely, and transparent communication to keep all parties informed and aligned.

• Problem-Solving Partnership: Working collaboratively with design and construction teams to identify and resolve challenges effectively.

• Feedback Exchange: An environment where constructive feedback is shared and utilized to improve project outcomes and processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices and lessons learned across projects and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at ASU, and within FDM/OUA, is likely to be professional, team-oriented, and mission-driven, with a strong emphasis on serving the university's academic and research objectives. The values highlight a commitment to quality, efficiency, and sustainability, which are critical for managing large-scale capital projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Technical Complexity: Managing the design and construction of highly specialized facilities (labs, cleanrooms) with unique technical requirements and stringent safety protocols.

• Stakeholder Management: Balancing the diverse and sometimes competing needs of various stakeholders, including researchers, faculty, administration, and regulatory bodies.

• Budgetary Constraints: Delivering complex projects within established budgets, requiring careful cost control and value engineering.

• Schedule Adherence: Meeting demanding project timelines in a large institutional environment, which can involve complex permitting and approval processes.

• Navigating University Bureaucracy: Understanding and effectively navigating the policies, procedures, and approval pathways within a large public university system.

• Keeping Pace with Technology: Staying current with evolving lab technologies, construction methods, and BIM advancements.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Facility Design: Gaining deep expertise in the design and construction of cutting-edge research and laboratory environments.

• Advanced Project Delivery: Mastering complex project delivery methods like CMAR and Design Build from an owner's perspective.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead larger project teams, manage more complex portfolios, and potentially mentor junior staff.

• Industry Engagement: Participating in conferences, workshops, and professional organizations related to architectural design, construction management, and specialized facilities.

• Professional Licensure: Support and opportunity to maintain and advance professional architectural licensure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges revolve around the inherent complexity of specialized facility design and the demands of managing large-scale institutional projects. Growth opportunities are tied to deepening technical expertise and expanding leadership responsibilities within the university's facilities management structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Project Management Approach: "Describe your process for managing a complex laboratory renovation project from initial concept through construction completion. How do you ensure scope, budget, and schedule are controlled?"

• Technical Expertise: "Walk me through a challenging lab design project in your portfolio. What were the critical technical considerations, and how did you ensure they were addressed by the design team?"

• Code Compliance: "How do you approach ensuring compliance with stringent lab safety codes and building regulations for a new research facility? Can you provide an example?"

• Stakeholder Engagement: "Describe a time you had to manage conflicting stakeholder requirements on a project. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?"

• Problem Solving: "Imagine a critical design issue arises during construction for a cleanroom facility. How would you diagnose the problem, involve the right parties, and arrive at a timely solution?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about working for Arizona State University and specifically within the Office of the University Architect?"

• "How do you see your experience contributing to ASU's mission of academic excellence and research innovation?"

• "How do you approach integrating sustainability into your design and project management processes?"

• "Describe your experience working within a higher education or large institutional environment." Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Wisely: Choose 2-3 projects that best represent your experience with specialized facilities (labs, research) and your role as a Design Manager/Owner's Representative.

• Structure for Clarity: For each project, use a consistent format: Project Overview, Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Design/Technical Aspects, Budget/Schedule Performance, Outcome/Lessons Learned.

• Highlight Technical Details: Be prepared to discuss specific systems, materials, code compliance strategies, and unique design solutions relevant to lab environments.

• Quantify Impact: Use data to demonstrate success – budget adherence, schedule performance, client satisfaction, efficiency improvements.

• Engage Your Audience: Be ready to answer detailed questions about your contributions and decision-making processes. Practice your narrative to be concise and impactful.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating both technical architectural expertise and strong project management/owner's representative skills. Candidates should be ready to articulate their processes, showcase problem-solving abilities, and align their experience with ASU's specific needs and culture, especially concerning specialized facilities.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Architect Senior – Design Manager - Labs position:

• Submit your application through the ASU Workday Jobs Hub, ensuring you use the provided link.

• Resume & Cover Letter Customization: Tailor your resume to clearly highlight experience with laboratory, research, or advanced manufacturing facilities, project management, code compliance, and specialized project delivery methods (CMAR, Design Build). Craft a compelling cover letter that articulates your specific interest in ASU and this role, and how your unique skills align with the desired qualifications.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a professional portfolio showcasing 2-3 of your most relevant projects. Focus on demonstrating your technical expertise, project management capabilities, and experience as an owner's representative for complex facilities. Be ready to present and discuss this portfolio during interviews.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to answer technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions. Practice articulating your project management methodology, problem-solving strategies, and stakeholder management approach. Rehearse presenting your portfolio with clear, concise explanations and quantifiable results.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Arizona State University's mission, its campuses, and the Facilities Development and Management department's goals, particularly their commitment to sustainability and innovation in campus development. Understand the unique challenges and opportunities of working in a large higher education institution.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.