Planning and Design Section Supervisor – Design and ...

DescriptionAre you ready to lead planning and design efforts for Architectural, Engineering and Construction initiatives supporting national security, space exploration, and scientific discovery?  Do you thrive on delivering results through collaboration, precision, and innovation? If so, we’d love to have you join our team. APL is preparing for a new era of growth, with more than $3 billion in capital investments planned in new construction and facility modernization projects. To support this initiative, we are seeking an experienced Planning and Design Section Supervisor to lead a dedicated team within our Facilities Design and Construction Group. This position will play a key role in shaping the Laboratory’s long-range campus development, space planning and facility design strategies, bridging current and future infrastructure needs as envisioned in APL’s Site Master Plan.Job SummaryReporting to the Assistant Group Supervisor of the Facilities Design and Construction Group, the Planning and Design Section Supervisor will lead a multidisciplinary team of Architects, Engineers, Space Planners and technical professionals. You will oversee the planning, design, and execution of complex facilities projects in a highly technical, fast-paced research and development environment. You will define section priorities, implement policies, provide coaching and mentoring, and foster a culture of innovation, and continuous improvement. You will collaborate with Laboratory leadership, Howard County officials, and internal partners to ensure alignment with APL’s operational and strategic objectives. Leadership and Organizational ExcellenceLead and manage a section of approximately 12–14 professionals who compose architectural, engineering, space planning, and support projectsEstablish and foster a climate conducive to creativity, intellectual curiosity, and collaborationDefine business processes, prioritize section work, and implement best management practices to ensure compliance with APL policiesCollaborate across departments and Laboratory divisions to maximize impact and foster cross-enterprise integrationLead long-range campus planning and development initiatives in support of the overall campus frameworkPartner with leadership to develop strategies and frameworks that support near-term and long-term campus growth and flexibilityStrategic Space Alignment: Ensure Enterprise spaces are optimized for efficiency and functionality by evaluating present and upcoming utilization needs. Enable systematic data-driven space planning that supports organizational growth, collaboration, and innovation.Enterprise Space Planning Leadership: Implement and enforce space planning principles, policies, and governance frameworks, ensuring alignment with industry best practices and the organization’s strategic goals set forth by the Strategic Growth and Space Utilization Team.Collaborator Engagement & Happiness: Ensure that space users and collaborators are actively engaged in the space management process, encouraging transparency, collaboration, and happiness with space allocation decisionsCost Optimization & Resource Stewardship: Drive cost efficiencies through analytics-based space planning, strategic consolidations, and innovative workplace strategies, reducing construction and operational expenses without compromising functionalityKnowledge Sharing & Transparency: Capture, analyze, and disseminate key learnings and best practices from space planning initiatives across the Enterprise, fostering an informed decision-making cultureOperational and Technical OversightProvide technical leadership for facilities design and infrastructure projects of varying size and complexityLead in-house design teams in developing plans, specifications, and cost estimatesOversee quality, accuracy, and code compliance of design solutionsCoordinate with Howard County’s Office of Permitting and ensure all projects comply with applicable building codes and regulationsManage project prioritization, scheduling, and resource allocation to meet mission and operational requirementsDevelop, implement, and standardize design practices, including architectural and engineering methodologiesLead strategic campus planning efforts, including portfolio planning, utilization analysis, and forecasting of future space requirementsStaff Development and Organizational CultureInspire and empower staff to embrace innovation and continuous improvementProvide coaching, mentorship, and regular performance feedbackIdentify and develop key talent for future leadership rolesEnsure staff have the resources and professional development opportunities needed to meet evolving technical and organizational needsChampion section-level transformation initiatives and promote a culture of accountability and excellence Qualifications Required QualificationsBachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Interior Design, Planning or a related fieldMinimum 10 years of directly related experience in Architectural, Interior and Engineering designLicensed Architect or Professional Engineer (PE) in the State of Maryland, or another state who can acquire licensure within six (6) months of hireDeep expertise in workplace design, space utilization principles and facility planningWorking knowledge of the space management lifecycleDemonstrated success in leading and managing professional technical staffStrong understanding of building codes, zoning ordinances, and applicable state and federal regulationsProven ability to think strategically, lead change, and deliver sustainable outcomesStrong influencing, negotiation, and communication skills with the ability to work across all levels of the organizationExperience with estimating, budgeting, project scheduling, strategic planning, and capital planningUS. citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret Security ClearanceRequires valid state-of-residence driver’s license in good standing.Desired QualificationsMaster’s degree in Architecture or EngineeringExperience with Maryland’s regulatory and permitting environmentKnowledge or experience with cost estimating and scheduling software such as MS ProjectExperience with building and construction tools including RevitExperience with Integrated Workplace Management System software such as TririgaSpecial Working ConditionsOccasional operation of APL vehiclesOccasional non-standard work hours as required by project or mission needsSecurity RequirementsApplicants selected will be subject to a U.S. government security clearance investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. The capability to obtain a Top-Secret Security Clearance is required, with a current Secret or Top-Secret Security Clearance preferred. U.S. citizenship is required. About UsWhy Work at APL? The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates. At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact .  The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Minimum Rate$105,000 Annually Maximum Rate$275,000 Annually

Created: 2026-02-07