University Architect & Director of In-House Design
Job ID - 62203
Closing Date : 03/12/2026
Florida State University is seeking a University Architect & Director of In-House Design, a senior leadership role responsible for guiding the planning and design of the university’s physical environment. This position leads the In-House Design team within Planning, Design & Construction (PD&C) and serves as the university’s chief architectural authority, ensuring campus facilities support FSU’s academic mission, innovation, and long-term strategic goals. The role helps create environments that foster learning, collaboration, and a thriving university community.
Responsibilities
Architectural Oversight & Technical Leadership
- Serve as the University’s Architect of Record, signing and sealing construction documents in accordance with Chapter 481, Florida Statutes.
- Ensure quality control through comprehensive reviews of drawings, specifications, and cost estimates produced by in-house design staff.
- Validate accuracy and compliance of special project documents to align with FSU standards and institutional expectations.
- Conduct research and provide technical guidance to inform project decisions, design standards, and campus development initiatives.
- Develop program scopes and cost estimates to support effective project planning and responsible resource stewardship—core to FSU’s values.
Leadership of the In-House Design Section
- Direct administrative management, coordination, and strategic direction for in-house design staff.
- Supervise, mentor, and support professional development for designers and technical personnel, fostering a culture of collaboration, excellence, and continuous improvement, supporting FSU’s commitment to high-performing teams and responsible stewardship.
- Manage staff schedules, assignments, and workload distribution to ensure timely and high-quality project delivery.
- Oversee the preparation of project status reports and maintain consistent communication on progress and issues.
- Recommend and implement best practices, policies, and procedures to elevate service quality and operational effectiveness.
- Participate in strategic planning, staffing decisions, and talent development efforts aligned with PD&C and university-wide goals.
Project Management & Institutional Coordination
- Lead project management efforts for in-house design projects, including design development, construction observations, and coordination with assigned staff.
- Manage special campus projects or studies that support physical facility improvements in alignment with institutional priorities.
- Assist units across the university in defining facility needs, ensuring that physical spaces support academic and administrative functions central to FSU’s mission.
- Coordinate with internal departments, external consultants, and regulatory agencies to support efficient and compliant project delivery.
Campus Planning, Standards, & Committee Leadership
- Contribute to long-range campus planning and the development of architectural and design standards that support FSU’s vision of an innovative, interdisciplinary, and impactful university environment.
- Serve on key committees related to physical facility development, maintenance, and design professional selection.
- Chair the University Aesthetics Committee and report on committee decisions and issues.
- Serve as a member of the AiSB Committee for major projects, providing critical architectural expertise to support informed decision-making.
Institutional Partnerships & Strategic Support
- Collaborate closely with PD&C leadership, academic colleges, administrative units, and external partners to ensure design solutions align with programmatic needs and institutional goals.
- Offer architectural insight, feasibility assessments, and design recommendations to support interdepartmental initiatives and long-range planning efforts.
- Champion design excellence that enhances the campus experience and reinforces FSU’s mission, values, and strategic aspirations.