Senior Lab Planner – Science & Technology Practice
Location: Durham, NC (or broader North Carolina region)
Sector: Science & Technology | Higher Education | Research Environments
Status: Confidential Strategic Growth Opportunity
About the Firm (Confidential)
Our client is a 150-year-old national design practice known for shaping some of the most inspiring academic, healthcare, and research environments in the United States. With a heritage rooted in architectural excellence and innovation, this firm is now investing in the next generation of Science & Technology (S&T) leadership — and sees North Carolina as a critical part of that story.
The firm is renowned for designing mission-driven spaces that advance discovery, learning, and human progress. From leading-edge university research centers to next-generation biotech and life sciences facilities, their work combines design artistry with technical precision and a deep understanding of the people who use these spaces.
Now, they’re seeking a Senior Lab Planner to help establish and grow their Science & Technology presence in the Durham and wider Research Triangle region — one of the world’s most dynamic hubs for innovation.
The Opportunity
This is a rare opportunity to take on a foundational role — helping to shape the direction and identity of a growing S&T practice in one of the nation’s premier research markets.
You’ll collaborate directly with national design and sector leaders while taking local ownership of lab planning strategy, client engagement, and project delivery.
The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise in laboratory design with strategic vision — someone who understands not just how to plan labs, but how to help clients imagine what’s next.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic & Technical Leadership
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Lead laboratory planning efforts for complex research, academic, and innovation facilities.
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Collaborate with project teams to deliver spaces that are functional, adaptable, and human-centered.
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Provide strategic input into the firm’s growing S&T practice, helping shape tools, standards, and best practices.
Client Development & Relationships
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Build and maintain relationships with clients in higher education, biotech, life sciences, and healthcare research sectors.
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Support business development efforts by identifying emerging opportunities in the Research Triangle and beyond.
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Serve as a trusted advisor to clients — balancing design, performance, and operational efficiency.
Collaboration & Mentorship
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Work alongside architects, engineers, and designers to integrate lab planning seamlessly into the broader design vision.
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Mentor junior staff and help grow a regional network of S&T expertise.
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Partner with firmwide leadership to establish the North Carolina market as a strategic growth center for science and research environments.
Ideal Background
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10+ years of experience in laboratory planning, with a focus on S&T, higher education, or healthcare research facilities.
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Strong understanding of laboratory systems, workflows, and user needs across wet, dry, and computational labs.
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Proven track record of successful client interaction, business development, and project leadership.
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A passion for science and design — translating technical requirements into spaces that inspire innovation and discovery.
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Architecture or engineering degree required; lab planning certification or equivalent experience preferred.
Why This Role
This position offers the autonomy to build something from the ground up — with the backing of a nationally respected, design-driven practice and a collaborative leadership team eager to invest in long-term growth.
You’ll have access to deep internal resources, mentorship from established S&T leaders, and the opportunity to shape the firm’s voice in one of the fastest-growing science and research markets in the country.
