Director of Architecture - Philadelphia

JOB DESCRIPTION

Michael Baker International is seeking a Director of Architecture to lead and grow our Philadelphia-based Architecture practice. This is a senior leadership role focused on business performance, people leadership, and strategic growth, supported by strong architectural expertise.

This role is ideal for an experienced architectural leader who has managed teams, owned financial performance, and led operations, while also remaining engaged with clients and project delivery.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Practice & Business Leadership

Lead the overall performance, growth, and direction of the Architecture practice in Philadelphia
Own operational and financial performance, including staffing, utilization, budgets, and profitability (P&L)
Partner with regional and national leaders to align strategy, resources, and growth initiatives
Implement and consistently apply operational best practices related to project planning, risk, quality, and execution

People Leadership & Team Development

Directly lead, mentor, and develop a team of architects and architectural staff
Drive performance management, accountability, coaching, and career development
Build a strong, inclusive, and collaborative office culture with an in-person leadership presence (approx. 3 days/week)
Identify hiring needs and actively recruit top architectural talent to support strategic growth

Client Leadership & Business Development

Serve as a senior client-facing leader, building trusted relationships across public and private sectors
Support and lead business development efforts, including proposals, interviews, and client strategy
Expand presence in emerging private markets while supporting established Transit and Aviation clients
Represent Michael Baker at industry, client, and professional organization events

Project Oversight & Technical Excellence

Provide leadership oversight across architectural projects to ensure scope, schedule, budget, and quality alignment
Promote consistent design and documentation standards across teamsFoster cross-disciplinary collaboration within IDA and across offices

PROFESSIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Architecture
Licensed Architect (RA) in Pennsylvania; New Jersey licensure strongly preferred
NCARB Certification required
Minimum 10+ years of progressive experience leading architectural teams and projects
Demonstrated experience with business operations, staff management, and financial accountability
Background working with transportation-focused clients (Transit and/or Aviation) in PA and NJ
Strong communication skills and proven ability to lead, influence, and build relationships
AIA membership and LEED AP BD+C preferredWillingness to travel regionally as needed (approximately 20%)

COMPENSATION

The approximate compensation range for this position is $149,000 to $207,000 annually. This compensation range is a good faith estimate for the position at the time of posting. Actual compensation is dependent upon factors such as education, qualifications, experience, skillset, and physical work location.

#LI-LL1

ABOUT US

Michael Baker International, a leading provider of engineering and consulting services, including design, planning, architectural, environmental, construction and program management, has been solving some of the world’s most complex infrastructure challenges for more than 85 years with a legacy of expertise, experience, innovation and integrity.

Based in Pittsburgh and with over 100 offices nationwide, we partner with clients on everything from roads, bridges, tunnels, mass transit, and airports, to water treatment plants, arctic oil pipelines, environmental restoration and specialized overseas construction. We serve as a trusted adviser to the communities we serve, making them safer, more accessible, more sustainable and more prosperous.

We provide visionary leadership in facilitating transformational change for our clients. Our work delivers differentiating innovations and dedicated experts who challenge the status quo and share a world of diverse experience and an impassioned entrepreneurial spirit. We deliver quality of life.

We Make a Difference.

Michael Baker International is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Michael Baker International provides equal employment opportunity for all persons, in all facets of employment. Michael Baker International maintains a drug-free workplace and performs pre-employment substance abuse testing and background checks. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply for any open position for which they feel they are qualified and all will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, familial status, pregnancy or childbirth, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status, status with regard to public assistance, or membership or activity in a local human rights commission, or any other legally protected status.

EEO is the Law. Applicants to and employees of Michael Baker International are protected under Federal law from discrimination.

*It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.


*There is no current application deadline. Michael Baker will continue to accept applications on an ongoing basis until the position is filled or no longer needed.