Space Planning and Design Manager

• Job Type: Officer of Administration
• Bargaining Unit:
• Regular/Temporary: Regular
• End Date if Temporary:
• Hours Per Week: 35
• Standard Work Schedule:
• Building:
• Salary Range: $78,000 to $85,000

Position Summary

The Space Planning and Design Manager supports the Columbia School of Engineering and Applied Science (SEAS) in advancing strategic space planning, management, and capital project initiatives. Reporting to the Executive Director of Space Planning and Design, with additional support provided to the Vice Dean of Infrastructure and Innovation, this junior- to mid-level role plays a key part in managing space data, supporting large-scale construction projects, and enabling data-informed decision-making across the School.

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a proactive, detail-oriented professional to contribute to the planning and development of SEAS's physical environment, collaborate with a wide range of stakeholders, and help shape innovative space solutions within a dynamic academic setting.

Responsibilities

Space Planning and Data Management:

Manage and maintain SEAS's proprietary space data management system, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and completeness across the School's space portfolio.

Conduct semesterly space utilization surveys for laboratories, classrooms, offices, and student spaces.

Develop reports, layouts, and visual materials (e.g., spreadsheets, dashboards, diagrams) to support planning analyses and leadership decision-making.

Manage space request proposals submitted to the University, including preparation of justifications and impact assessments.

Partner with academic departments, centers, and faculty to assess space needs, identify utilization opportunities, and support long-term planning.

Identify space opportunities in support of pre-award grant proposals and provide post-award planning deliverables.

Collaborate closely with SEAS Facilities and Operations on space management activities and provide backup support as needed.

Contribute to special projects and initiatives as assigned.

Large-Scale Capital Project Support:

Represent SEAS in design, construction, and consultant meetings; document key decisions, milestones, and action items for leadership review.

Develop comprehensive project presentations and reports to support fundraising, communications, and stakeholder engagement.

Coordinate with University partners-including Environmental Health & Safety, Operations, Capital Finance, CUIT, Public Safety, and the Office of Sustainability-through all phases of design and construction for the new engineering building.

Administration and Strategic Support

Oversee day-to-day operations of the Office of Space Planning and Design, ensuring priorities are executed efficiently and aligned with SEAS strategic goals.

Manage and analyze planning data to support evidence-based decision-making and strategic resource allocation.

Develop and implement administrative systems, workflows, and documentation practices that enhance operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

Prepare executive-level briefings, reports, and presentations synthesizing data analysis, trends, and strategic recommendations for SEAS leadership.

Track progress on SEAS-wide and departmental initiatives, ensuring timely completion of deliverables and follow-up actions.

Document planning activities, decisions, and performance metrics to support long-term planning and institutional compliance.

Proactively identify operational challenges and recommend process improvements or technology solutions.

Serve as a key operational advisor to the Executive Director, providing analytical insight and guidance related to space planning and resource management.

Budgeting and Financial Support

Develop and monitor budgets for space planning, renovation, and capital projects.

Prepare cost analyses and maintain cash flow models for active and planned initiatives.

Manage cost reconciliations and collect financial data related to operational and project expenses.

Support SEAS Finance and SEAS Operations with procurement and financial coordination.

Participate in financial discussions and negotiations related to space acquisition, in collaboration with SEAS leadership and the University Real Estate group.

Minimum Qualifications

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  Bachelor's degree and/or equivalent experience required. Preferred fields include architecture, planning, facilities management, or project management.

  
  
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  At least 3 years of experience in space planning, facilities management, project coordination, or a related field.

  
  
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  Demonstrated ability to manage space portfolios and planning initiatives aligned with institutional priorities.

  
  
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  Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.

  
  
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  Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and project management or scheduling software.

  
  
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  Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.

  
  

Preferred Qualifications

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  Experience in higher education or a complex institutional environment.

  
  
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  Ability to manage multiple priorities independently while working collaboratively within a team.

  
  
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  Familiarity with construction project workflows, space transition planning, or occupancy management

  
  

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.