POSITION OVERVIEW: As a
Senior Studio Lead at LJA
Land Development, you will provide strategic oversight of complex planning and design projects and of the studio's work. The position operates independently and collaborates with Principals and Directors on complex issues, client strategy, and group direction. Responsibilities include leading large-scale planning and design efforts, directing staffing and process improvements, serving as liaison with clients and stakeholders, and mentoring Studio Leads, Project Managers, and junior staff. The position requires advanced technical, design, and political judgment, and strong communication with team members, clients, and public agencies.
A TYPICAL DAY MIGHT INCLUDE:- Provide strategic oversight of complex planning and design projects from concept through implementation.
- Set design direction and standards for the studio, and hold the work to them.
- Collaborate with Principals and Directors on complex issues, client strategy, and group direction.
- Serve as liaison with clients, stakeholders, and public agencies.
- Lead client communications and support business development, including proposals and fees.
- Mentor Studio Leads, Project Managers, and junior staff.
- Oversee professional development, performance, and adherence to project deadlines.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, landscape architects, and other consultants.
- Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project objectives are met.
- Represent the company by actively participating in relevant professional associations and organizations to expand contacts, forge strategic partnerships, and gather market intelligence.
REQUIRED EDUCATION/LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS:- Degree in Planning, Landscape Architecture, Urban Design, Architecture, or related field.
- AICP, ENV, PLA, AIA, CNU, LEED, or other job-related certification.
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:- Minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in planning, land development, or a related field.
IDEALLY, YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE:- Demonstrated strategic thinking, advanced leadership, and organizational skills.
- High level client engagement, including agency negotiations and stakeholder engagement.
- Advanced technical, design, and political judgment.
- Measurable contribution to group growth.
- Strong proficiency in CAD software, Adobe Illustrator, and other relevant design tools.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with team members, clients, and stakeholders.
- Detail oriented with a critical eye for design and the ability to provide constructive feedback.
LEVEL UP WITH LJAAt LJA, we're 100% employee-owned. This drives results, rewards ambition and supports long-term success for every team member. With almost 100 locations and 3,000+ employee-owners (and growing), we're building something big! We want you to be part of it.
Your future grows here.- Generous Time Off: PTO, paid holidays, and a full office closure between Christmas and New Year's.
- Comprehensive Benefits: Multiple plan options for health, dental, and pets. Along with mental health support.
- Family Support: Paid maternity and parental leave to help you focus on what matters most.
- Education Support: Tuition reimbursement and in-house courses provided by our Learning and Development team.
- Referral Bonuses: Know great talent? Get rewarded for helping us grow.
- Community Impact: Company-sponsored volunteer days and philanthropic initiatives.
- Professional Development: Memberships to industry organizations to keep you connected and growing.
- Career Growth: Great internal mobility opportunities to advance your career.
- Fun Culture: LJA social events, employee sports teams, bring your kid to work day, etc.
