Studio Lead - PLA en LJA Engineering, Inc.

WHAT LJA HAS TO OFFER

LJA is offering an exciting opportunity that will allow you to reach your full career potential. The structure of our organization is designed to amplify your capabilities while gaining the benefits of being an employee-owner. What truly sets this opportunity apart is the chance to collaborate every day with dedicated, skilled, and supportive leaders. Whether you are in the office, in the field, or behind the scenes, working at LJA gives you the chance to grow through hands-on experience and exposure to a broad range of clients and services.

WHAT MAKES LJA DIFFERENT

At LJA, our employee-owners take pride in their work and their workplace. We’re guided by leaders who foster a culture of respect, collaboration and a shared vision of success. Our difference is evident in the experiences and opportunities we provide.

• Employee-owned. Client-focused
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Consistently ranked as a Top Workplace
• Internal recruitment team, in-house training, and a marketing department specific to our industry
• We celebrate flexibility, allowing every team and office to lead with their proven approach
• Our culture champions continuous learning and personal growth
• We believe success comes through constant evolution and communication
• We are passionate about having fun and making money, all while creating impact

POSITION OVERVIEW: As a Studio Lead at LJA Land Development, you will be responsible for overseeing the artistic direction and visual identity of planning projects under the supervision of an associate principal and principal planner. Your responsibilities will encompass supervision of the design work of planners, CAD technicians, and interns, providing creative guidance and leadership, and ensuring that the artistic vision aligns with the project goals and client's objectives. Your duties will include preparing or supervising the preparation of concept plans, street pattern sketch plans, and site plans, as well as providing direction, guidance, and reviews to team members to ensure high-quality deliverables. Additionally, you will be responsible for developing and implementing new design methods and processes, reviewing design studies and exhibits, and collaborating with various stakeholders to develop and execute visually stunning and impactful designs.

A TYPICAL DAY MIGHT INCLUDE:

• Concept Plan Preparation:
  • Prepare concept plans for various planning projects, incorporating creative and innovative design solutions via hand sketches.
  • Ensure that concept plans align with the client's vision, project requirements, and industry standards.
• Street Pattern Plan Preparation:
  • Develop street pattern sketch plans that consider functionality, aesthetics, and pedestrian-friendly design.
  • Collaborate with the project team to ensure the street layout complements the overall project vision.
  • Review street patterns after they are in CAD to make sure they adhere to the sketch and overall concept plan
• Site Plan Development:
  • Create site plans using hand sketches or CAD software, focusing on spatial organization, circulation, and design aesthetics.
  • Ensure site plans adhere to zoning regulations, environmental considerations, and project objectives.
• Direction and Guidance:
  • Provide clear direction and guidance to the project team regarding concept plans, street layout plans, and lotting studies.
  • Foster a collaborative environment that encourages creativity, innovation, and professional growth.
• Design Review:
  • Review and evaluate the design of concept plans, lotting studies, and illustrative exhibits for adherence to design standards and project goals.
  • Provide constructive feedback and suggestions for improvement to maintain high-quality deliverables.
• New Design Methods and Processes:
  • Contribute to developing and implementing new design methods, processes, and technologies to enhance efficiency and creativity.
  • Stay updated with the latest trends and advancements in planning and landscape architecture.
• Aesthetic Oversight:
  • Provide guidance and direction on the aesthetic aspects of illustrative exhibits, including graphics, color schemes, composition, & visual storytelling.
  • Ensure that the visual representation effectively communicates project concepts, design intent, and aligns with client expectations.
• Supervision and Leadership
  • Oversee the work of Associate Studio Leads, Planners, and CAD Technicians, providing guidance, mentorship, and support.
  • Ensure team members' professional development, performance, and adherence to project deadlines.
• Collaboration and Coordination
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, landscape architects, and other consultants, to integrate design elements seamlessly.
  • Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project objectives are met

REQUIRED EDUCATION/LICENSE/CERTIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in urban planning, Architecture, Landscape Architecture, or a related field.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Minimum of 7 years’ experience in urban planning, land development, or a related field, demonstrating creativity and design expertise.
• Strong proficiency in CAD software, Adobe Suite , and other relevant design tools.
• Strong understanding of urban planning principles and sustainability practices.
• Knowledge of design principles, aesthetics, and graphic communication techniques.
• Strong organizational and project management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet project deadlines.
• Familiarity with industry standards and best practices in urban planning and land development. 

IDEALLY, YOU SHOULD ALSO HAVE:

• Excellent leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to oversee and guide a team of professionals effectively.
• 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 LJA

At 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.

• Flexible Work Options: Schedules to help you balance life and work.
• 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.

To Executive Search Firms & Staffing Agencies: LJA Engineering, Inc. and its subsidiaries do not accept unsolicited resumes from any agencies that have not signed a service agreement. All unsolicited resumes will be considered LJA's property. This includes resumes submitted directly to hiring managers without contacting LJA's Human Resources Talent Department.