University Architect & Director of Design (# 365640)

$150,000 - $175,000/Yr

University of Minnesota

Full-time - Senior

Educational Services

About the position

The University Architect & Director of Design at the University of Minnesota is a senior leadership role within the Capital Project Management (CPM) team. This position is responsible for directing and managing architectural development across the University campuses, ensuring design alignment with University standards and facilitating seamless project transitions from predesign through construction. The role involves collaboration with various stakeholders to advance the University's capital investment strategy, supporting its teaching, research, and outreach missions.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and continuity of architectural and interior design guidelines for future projects.
• Participate in feasibility studies and project definition.
• Conduct project plan reviews for constructability and architectural considerations.
• Ensure design teams adhere to established budget parameters.
• Chair building advisory committees and lead Project Executive Committees.
• Facilitate administrative approvals for projects.
• Evaluate vendor marketplace and industry trends to inform design practices.
• Serve as a design point of contact with internal and external agencies.
• Collaborate with the Director of Planning to manage the Campus Plan and related district plans.
• Strengthen collaboration with University units essential to capital project development.
• Provide accurate information to the Board of Regents for decision-making on capital projects.
• Advance the University Board of Regents Sustainability policy and energy efficiency mandates.

Requirements

• BA/BS degree in Architecture or closely related field.
• At least twelve (12) years of related experience in architectural design and/or urban/campus planning.
• Four (4) years of direct supervisory experience of professional staff.
• Architectural licensure in the State of Minnesota is required.

Nice-to-haves

• Advanced degree in Architecture or related field.
• Experience in higher education architecture.

Benefits

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off.
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs.
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans.
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts.
• University HSA contributions.
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance.
• Employee wellbeing program.
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution.
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity.
• Financial counseling services.
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost.
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area.