Senior Technical Coordinator - Science & Technology

Perkins&Will•San Francisco, CA

4d•$128,800 - $189,300•Onsite

About The Position

Our San Francisco studio, which is part of a 3,000-person global firm, is expanding its life sciences, biotech, and advanced research capabilities. We are seeking a Senior Technical Coordinator who views lab planning and MEP coordination as integral design tasks, rather than mere constraints. This role is distinct from project management; its focus is on safeguarding the research function by ensuring the building's systems precisely meet scientific requirements while the design remains viable through permitting and value engineering.

Requirements

10-15+ years in project architecture or technical coordination, with direct experience in lab or other high-compliance building types preferred.
Deep understanding of construction techniques, system assemblies, and materials selection, as lab environments require specialized knowledge.
Working knowledge of building, energy, and zoning codes, plus lab-specific regulatory requirements (biosafety, chemical hazard, ventilation).
Demonstrated judgment to lead Quality Control and Quality Assurance efforts across all phases, with the discipline to maintain firm standards under project pressure.
Proven track record of leading design reviews, charettes, and pin-ups, and keeping teams aligned on design intent amidst increasing technical complexity.
Advanced proficiency in Revit and conceptual/computational modeling (Rhino, Grasshopper scripting are a plus).
Comfort with Enscape, VRay, and physical modeling tools (3D printing, laser cutting) for client presentations.
Experience with environmental analysis software (Pollination Ladybug, Climate Studio).
Bachelor's degree in architecture or a related discipline.
Active progress toward licensure, including underway ARE exams and engagement in AXP.
A track record of directly leading construction contract administration, not just supervising it, and mentoring others through the process.

Nice To Haves

Direct lab or other high-compliance building type experience.
Rhino, Grasshopper scripting.
LEED GA within 6 months of hire, plus one Living Design accreditation of your choosing (LEED AP, WELL AP, Passive House, ILFI, etc.).

Responsibilities

Lead the design process across all phases for state-of-the-art lab facilities, upholding firm standards, project objectives, and living design principles in a building type with a minimal margin for error.
Provide technical coordination across architecture, interior design, landscape, and a comprehensive list of specialty consultants (MEP, structural, lab planning, fume hood, vivarium, cleanroom classification).
Respond to technical implications, design decisions, and project financial goals throughout the development process.
Navigate regulatory reviews and codes specific to lab environments, including life safety, hazardous materials, exhaust and ventilation requirements, and accessibility, and prepare submissions to authorities having jurisdiction.
Conduct Quality Control reviews at every phase and provide input on constructibility and materials for high-performance systems, from casework and fume hoods to specialized MEP assemblies, in coordination with the project architect.
Direct Quality Assurance to ensure adherence to Perkins&Will standards from beginning to end.
Manage construction contract administration from start to finish, including submittal review, RFI response, field observation, and project closeout.
Stay informed about evolving building technology and lab-specific engineering systems and their implications for project construction.
Lead design reviews, charettes, and pin-ups, ensuring team alignment on intent as technical complexity increases.
Engage in client-facing technical discussions where precision is paramount.
Mentor junior staff who are new to lab-specific detailing.