Senior Architect - Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals

Imagine having the opportunity to significantly influence the design and construction of facilities that directly improve human health. At SSOE, your role as a Senior Architect will go beyond mere task execution; you will engage with complex technical challenges specific to the highly regulated environments of pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and life sciences. From designing current Good Manufacturing Practice (cGMP) production suites to creating advanced research laboratories, your work will lie at the intersection of architecture, engineering, and regulatory science, all within a supportive and collaborative culture.

In this position, you will play a key role in shaping the architectural landscape of vital pharmaceutical and life sciences facilities, ensuring compliance with regulations while enhancing product quality and promoting patient safety. Your expertise in building codes, GMP regulations, and code analysis will be essential for maintaining operational integrity and safety in our innovative designs. As a mentor, you will guide less experienced staff while leading internal project teams, contributing to the growth of both our clients and the firm.

At SSOE, we embrace the future of work by pioneering AI integration to enhance productivity and creativity. You will have access to powerful AI tools from day one, allowing you to streamline processes and focus on innovative solutions.

As a Senior Architect, your responsibilities will include:

Leading the architectural design for complex pharmaceutical and life sciences projects, including cGMP manufacturing suites, laboratories, and support facilities. Providing technical oversight to ensure high-quality construction documents that meet client specifications and industry regulations. Collaborating across engineering disciplines to ensure cohesive coordination and operational performance in a GMP context. Interpreting and applying relevant building codes and GMP regulations throughout all project phases. Utilizing knowledge of occupancy classifications and fire protection systems tailored for sensitive environments. Conducting peer reviews and quality control checks focusing on architectural detailing and contamination prevention. Collaborating with various teams for comprehensive project planning and delivery aligned with drug development timelines. Presenting design concepts and regulatory compliance strategies to clients and stakeholders. Mentoring junior team members in GMP principles and laboratory design. Staying updated with evolving regulations and emerging trends in the industry. Conducting site visits to monitor compliance and design intent during construction. Developing and maintaining architectural standards to ensure consistency and quality. Qualifications for this role include:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited program. Active U.S. Registered Architect (RA) license with reciprocity capability. 10+ years of architectural experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or life sciences sectors. Demonstrated leadership in managing design teams through all project phases within a design-build framework. Strong knowledge of cGMP regulations and relevant building codes. Experience in cleanroom HVAC principles and Revit software proficiency. Excellent communication and presentation skills to engage diverse stakeholders. A portfolio showcasing GMP-compliant and innovative design solutions. The salary range for this role is $120,000 - $160,000 annually, based on location, educational background, and relevant experience. Additional benefits include comprehensive health insurance, a 401K retirement savings plan with matching contributions, opportunities for professional development, and a generous PTO policy.

Preferred qualifications:

Familiarity with commissioning and validation processes. Knowledge of LEED or Green Globes certification relevant to laboratory design. NCARB certification and multi-state registration capabilities. Experience in fast-track pharmaceutical project delivery. Join us at SSOE and be part of a team that is dedicated to innovation in the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector.