Position Summary
Columbia Engineering stands as a global leader in engineering education, research, and impact. Situated in the heart of New York City, the school continues to push the boundaries of knowledge and address humanity’s most critical challenges. As we grow and expand our academic and research mission, we are seeking a strategic leader who will play a key role in shaping the school’s evolving spatial design and expanding footprint, ensuring that our facilities align with our growth projections and vision for creating an integrated ecosystem that transforms engineering-led research.
Reporting to the Vice Dean of Infrastructure and Innovation, the Executive Director of Space Planning and Design will lead and develop space planning and optimization strategies to meet the demands of the Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science's (SEAS) operational and functional needs. This role supports the planning, design, and efficient use of SEAS physical spaces across the University’s multiple campuses and leased properties, currently approximately 600,000 GSF. A key responsibility will include contributing to the design of the new SEAS research building at the Manhattanville campus as part of the school’s continued expansion.
The Executive Director will play a crucial role in aligning space management with SEAS’s mission of education, research, and innovation. This role involves working closely with departmental and school leadership to assess space needs and provide strategic recommendations for space utilization and development. The Executive Director will act as a liaison between SEAS, University Facilities, and other central partners, managing conceptual space planning, test fit diagrams, and early design phases. The incumbent will incorporate sustainable practices into space planning and coordinate the integration of technology into space designs for optimization
Responsibilities
Planning and Design (55%):
Budgeting and Financial Oversight (10%):
System Management (10%):
Analytics (10%):
Process Improvement, Sustainability, and Innovation (10%):
Other Related Duties (5%):
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in architecture, facilities management, urban planning, or a related field is required.
A minimum of 8 years related experience is required.
Proven experience in space planning and capital project management, with strong knowledge of programming and design principles.
Proficiency in architecture, construction management, or facilities management, with the ability to interpret floor plans, schematics, and drawings.
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear and compelling reports and presentations.
Strong interpersonal skills and political acumen, with a demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Proven leadership abilities with experience in resolving complex planning issues and conducting sensitive negotiations.
Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple activities effectively under pressure.
Ability to walk long distances.
Some travel as it relates to new Principal Investigator (PI) hires and space planning.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in project construction administration, architecture, or facilities management.
Prior experience in a higher education setting.
Prior experience in a research or laboratory environment.
Master’s degree in architecture, facilities management, planning, design, or a related field.
Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran
Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.
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