Architectural Lab Planner

CLAYCO • Phoenix, AZ

62d

About The Position

Lamar Johnson Collaborative (LJC) is looking to hire a Lab Planner to join our team and assume a SME role for the Life Science Market Sector. The Lab Planner is responsible for leading the planning, programming, and design of complex laboratory and research facilities. This role requires deep expertise in laboratory planning, knowledge of technical and regulatory requirements, and the ability to collaborate with clients, scientists, and engineering teams to create high-performance, flexible, and sustainable lab environments. This individual will be counted on to collaborate closely with colleagues in other LJC offices, and mentor and nurture the professional development of staff, as well as work across disciplines and parent company Clayco's integrated construction and real estate arms to help our entire enterprise thrive.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture, Laboratory Planning, or a related field.
• 5-10 years of experience in laboratory planning and design, preferably in life sciences, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or higher education.
• Strong understanding of laboratory typologies, equipment, and operational needs.
• Knowledge of building codes, laboratory safety guidelines, and industry regulations.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and other design tools.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation abilities.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and clients.

Nice To Haves

• Professional licensure (RA) preferred.
• LEED accreditation or knowledge of sustainable lab design.
• Experience with biosafety level (BSL) labs or cleanroom environments.
• Understanding of emerging trends in lab design and technology integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning, design, and programming of laboratory and research facilities, ensuring alignment with client needs and industry best practices.
• Develop laboratory layouts, workflows, and spatial requirements to optimize functionality, flexibility, and safety.
• Integrate technical, operational, and regulatory considerations into lab designs.
• Collaborate with project teams, including architects, engineers, and consultants, to develop innovative and efficient laboratory designs.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and regulatory standards (e.g., NIH, CDC, BSL, GMP, ISO, LEED).
• Oversee laboratory casework, furniture, equipment, and utility requirements.
• Work closely with scientists, researchers, and facility managers to understand workflow requirements and translate them into design solutions.
• Facilitate user group meetings, workshops, and presentations to communicate planning concepts and gather feedback.
• Manage multiple lab planning projects from concept through completion, ensuring budget and schedule adherence.
• Guide and mentor junior lab planners, architects, and designers.
• Support business development by contributing to proposals, presentations, and client outreach efforts.
• Promotes and fosters a culture of one-team collaboration between and across offices
• Travel, as required, to secure project opportunities and support client engagement on projects

Benefits

• Discretionary Annual Bonus: Subject to company and individual performance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package Including: Medical, dental and vision plans, 401k, generous PTO and paid company holidays, employee assistance program, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, disability coverage, learning & development programs and more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Industry: Heavy and Civil Engineering Construction
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees