Architecture Studio Leader

AECOM • Cleveland, OH

6d • $140,000 - $170,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

Are you ready to lead transformative architecture projects and build client partnerships that shape communities? AECOM ’s Ohio Buildings + Places team is seeking an Architecture Studio Leader to join our Cleveland, OH team. This is a respected leadership role for those who are passionate about elevating project outcomes and cultivating a culture of excellence.
About the Ohio Buildings + Places Team
Our Ohio practice - anchored by large studios in Columbus and Cleveland - is one of the most established and highest-performing B+P practices in AECOM’ s West Region. Our Ohio-led client base is global and includes Public Non-Federal, Cultural + Civic, Higher Education, Science & Technology, and Transit, plus a full suite of Federal clients (ANG, NASA, DHS, GSA, NPS, VA, USACE, USAF, USSF). Most clients are repeat partners, recognizing our positive impact to their organizations. We operate as a fully integrated, multidisciplinary studio, offering those clients:
Architecture & Interiors
Building Systems & Structural Engineering
Urbanism, Planning & Landscape Architecture
Workplace Strategy & Advisory
Digital Delivery & Technology Solution
Design excellence is at the core of our identity. Since 2022, Ohio B+P projects have earned nearly 30 design awards, reflecting our commitment to craft, performance, resiliency, and innovation at every scale.
As the Cleveland Architecture Studio Leader, you will be responsible for elevating design outcomes, strengthening client relationships, and cultivating a high‑performing, collaborative culture.
Successful candidates will demonstrate an ability for promoting a culture of design and technical excellence and collaboration, leading and managing project teams, providing leadership-by-example, and sharing knowledge through pin-ups, charrettes, and technical reviews.
Why Join AECOM Ohio B+P
Work with a high-performing, collaborative team on projects that matter.
Engage across multi-disciplinary practices and business lines, with opportunities to shape the regional architecture discipline strategy.
Build a Cleveland market presence while delivering design excellence and measurable client impact.
If you’re a motivated, design forward team leader who thrives at the intersection of people, practice, and project delivery, we’d love to meet you. Join us in Cleveland and help deliver the work that matters.

Requirements

• BA/BS in Architecture + 8 years of relevant experience or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education
• Architectural licensure required. (Ohio preferred)
• Proven track record of leading multi-disciplinary teams on complex projects.
• Demonstrated ability to meet or exceed project performance and staff utilization targets.
• Experience in client relationship management and contributing to business development.
• Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to mentor and develop junior staff.
• Demonstrated ability to cultivate and lead teams that consistently deliver design excellence and technical rigor.”
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Familiarity with BIM workflows, parametric design tools, Adobe Creative Suite, Sketchup/Rhino and a proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, and other industry-standard tools necessary for the role.

Nice To Haves

• 10 years of architectural experience, including 5+ years in a leadership role
• Experience as a practicing architect and project manager responsible for the delivery of diverse, complex programmatic projects.
• Self-motivated with proven leadership skills and have managed teams or studios of 10+ people.
• Experience managing complex new-builds and major renovations; large-scale project experience is a plus.
• Understanding of contract types and alternate delivery methods (Design-Build, CMaR, etc.); DBIA certification is a plus.
• Interest or experience in integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the A/E service model.
• Sustainable design certifications (LEED, WELL)

Responsibilities

• Champion AECOM’s design philosophy and uphold best‑in‑class quality standards.
• Guide teams through all phases of design, ensuring technical and visual excellence.
• Provide high-level QA/QC across all teams and project phases.
• Drive integration of sustainable design principles and emerging technologies.
• Collaborate hand-in-hand with the Columbus Architecture studio leader under a “One Ohio” philosophy.
• Mentor, support, and develop architectural staff at all career stages.
• Recruit, retain, and promote diverse, exceptional talent.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning.
• Oversee the execution of multiple, complex projects from concept through construction.
• Partner with Project Managers to define scope, staffing strategies, fee proposals, schedules, and work plans.
• Manage studio performance metrics including utilization, quality, profitability, and staffing.
• Build and deepen relationships with new and existing clients.
• Lead and contribute to pursuits, interviews, and strategic growth initiatives.
• Elevate AECOM’s design presence in Cleveland and across the region.

Benefits

• AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level