Associate Department Head, Design Studio — (Orlando)

Associate Department Head, Design Studio — Orlando

Location: Orlando, FL (Onsite) | Compensation: $140,000 – $150,000

About the Role

We are seeking an imaginative Associate Department Head to lead the Orlando design studio. This is a senior leadership role for a bold, strategic thinker who thrives at the intersection of creativity, innovation, and execution. You will lead multidisciplinary teams from early visioning through design development and beyond, combining conceptual strength, technical expertise, and strategic leadership to produce innovative, contextually responsive, and buildable design solutions across diverse project types. The position requires equal fluency in conceptualizing, programming, presenting to clients, leading workshops, and mentoring emerging designers.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Department Head in overseeing department operations, including staffing, resource allocation, and project execution, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget
• Lead project teams in the design and development of architectural projects, ensuring compliance with building codes, regulations, and sustainability standards
• Serve as a key point of contact for clients on major projects, ensuring client expectations are met through effective communication and project management
• Support business development efforts by preparing proposals, meeting with potential clients, and contributing to marketing materials
• Participate in strategic planning for the department, contributing to decisions about project prioritization, staffing needs, and department goals
• Assist in establishing and driving the firm's overall design vision and strategy
• Leverage visualization tools and generative AI design processes to expand creative exploration
• Represent the firm at industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities

Competencies

Knowledge

• Strong understanding of architectural design principles, building systems, and construction methods
• Familiarity with project management processes including scheduling, budgeting, and resource allocation
• Demonstrated experience leading early-phase concept development, programming, and master planning
• Deep knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, and sustainability standards
• Knowledge of business development practices and client relationship management

Skills

• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and various visualization and rendering tools
• Ability to lead early visioning, programming, spatial planning, and site planning efforts
• Strong leadership and team management skills for overseeing large project teams
• Excellent communication skills for client interactions and team coordination
• Exceptional conceptual design ability and visual storytelling, including free-hand sketching
• Ability to manage multiple projects, establish internal design milestones, and balance design quality with deadline requirements

Abilities

• Provide design leadership and guide teams through complex projects
• Communicate complex design concepts to clients and team members
• Develop architectural concepts, diagrams, models, and visualizations in both 2D and 3D

Required Qualifications

• Licensed Architect (RA)
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture
• 10+ years of experience in architectural design
• A portfolio or website link with examples of design projects must be included with your application

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in K-12 and higher education projects
• Civic and public sector project experience