University Architect & Director of In-House Design

Department

Planning, Design & Construction

Florida State University seeks a visionary University Architect & Director of In‑House Design—a senior leadership position responsible for shaping the physical environment that supports the University’s academic excellence, innovation, and long‑range strategic goals. This role serves as the University’s chief architectural authority and leads the In‑House Design section within Planning, Design & Construction (PD&C), ensuring that the built environment advances FSU’s mission to preserve, expand, and disseminate knowledge while fostering a dynamic and high‑performing community.

FSU’s commitment to excellence is reflected not only in its educational mission but also in the environments that make transformative learning possible. As one of America’s Best in State Employers recognized by Forbes, Florida State University demonstrates a culture that values professional expertise, responsible stewardship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the well‑being of its workforce—foundational principles that underscore the importance of this role.

• 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.

• 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.
• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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…