Sr. Architect

Overview

Do you want to join a team that's changing the world? Do you have a strong background as a Senior Architect? Then we're looking for you! Check out the job description and apply now! Put your skills to meaningful use, gain unique experience, and work with world-class team members with diverse backgrounds and expertise who share the same vision. Join the PECNA team today!

Responsibilities

Summary: We are proud to announce the establishment of a state-of-the-art Li-ion battery factory, set amidst the beautiful Kansas City Metro. This groundbreaking green-field factory will serve as a pioneering hub for innovation in sustainable energy solutions.

If you are passionate about contributing to a sustainable future and being part of a dynamic team shaping the electric vehicle revolution, this opportunity is tailor-made for you. We are seeking dedicated individuals to join us as full-time, on-site team members at our new, state-of-the-art factory located in the thriving city of DeSoto, Kansas.

Job Summary: The Senior Architect will lead architectural design and coordination across project phases within the EPC team, ensuring code compliance, cost efficiency, and alignment with facility standards. This role includes supervising design documentation, overseeing construction administration, and supporting multi-disciplinary integration in a high-performance manufacturing environment. The position requires strong leadership in project execution, quality assurance, and client communication while advancing workflows and design productivity. Candidates should bring technical expertise, construction knowledge, and a proactive mindset to support fast-paced project delivery.

Essential Duties:

Design & Documentation

• Lead architectural design from concept through construction, incorporating applicable codes and standards
• Supervise and review the preparation of contract drawings, specifications, and construction documents
• Make key design decisions involving spatial layouts, aesthetics, detailing, and materials
• Ensure project deliverables meet quality, accuracy, and compliance standards
• Ensure design meets all relevant codes
• Design of clean and dry rooms

Project Management & Execution

• Oversee project scope, schedules, budgets, and resource planning
• Monitor task progress, manage budget adherence, and adjust workflows as needed to maintain project milestones
• Serve as Architect of Record for applicable projects
• Provide input on project estimating, scheduling, and productivity improvements
• Answer RFI's, submittals, NOC's and other documentation as needed

Construction Administration

• Conduct and document site observations, including existing conditions and construction progress
• Resolve design and construction issues promptly during field execution
• Perform code reviews, prepare permit applications, and ensure compliance with life safety requirements
• Write feasibility studies, technical reports, and design recommendations
• Communication with authority having jurisdiction

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Lead cross-discipline coordination with engineering and construction teams
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to a collaborative team environment
• Support team development by identifying skill gaps and proposing training or resource solutions
• Drive team morale and project ownership to achieve high-performance outcomes

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Communicate regularly with clients, contractors, and local authorities
• Prepare correspondence, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Assist with business development efforts, including proposal preparation and pursuit strategies
• Represent the organization in public presentations and meetings with town officials

Innovation & Process Improvement

• Identify and implement workflow enhancements to increase design efficiency and quality
• Promote a first-principles mindset to support innovation in design and project delivery
• Leverage construction phase learnings to improve future project outcomes

Safety & Compliance

• Adhere to all safety protocols, including PPE requirements for site visits (e.g., Tyvek suits, respirators)
• Participate in required safety training and respirator fit testing as applicable

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements:

• To ensure the health and safety in the workplace and for the protection of our employees', wearing PPE is a possibility and includes equipment such as a full Tyvek suit, safety shoes, gloves, safety glasses, face mask, and a full hazmat suit that includes a respirator. A respirator fit test will be required based on functional area.

The foregoing description is not intended and should not be construed to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills and efforts or work conditions associated with the job. It is intended to be an accurate reflection of the general nature and level of the job.

Qualifications: Requirements - Required and/or Preferred

Education

• Required: Bachelor's degree in Architecture
• Preferred: Master's degree in Architecture

Essential Qualifications

• 7+ years of architectural experience, preferably in industrial, manufacturing, or high-tech facilities
• Advanced proficiency in Revit for architectural design and coordination
• Experience with building code compliance, life safety design, and permitting processes
• Demonstrated ability to lead or support teams through all phases of project execution
• Understanding of architectural standards, construction techniques, and sequencing
• Ability to interface effectively with engineers, construction managers, and commissioning agents
• Ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills with a high attention to detail

Preferred Qualifications:

• Strong knowledge of cleanroom, hazardous material, and process-related design considerations
• Experience with Design-Build or EPC project delivery models
• Familiarity with semiconductor, chemical, or battery production facility layouts and workflows
• Experience with industrial codes and standards, such as IBC, NFPA, and OSHA regulations relevant to manufacturing environments
• Proficiency in additional tools such as AutoCAD, Navisworks, BIM 360, Bluebeam, or project management platforms like Procore or Primavera P6
• Understanding of lean manufacturing principles and how they influence facility design

Required License(s):

• Licensed architect in the state of Kansas

Preferred Certification(s):

• NCARB Certification
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Safety Certification
• Certified Construction Specifier (CCS)
• Design-Build Institute of America (DBIA) Certification
• Autodesk Certified Professional: Revit Architecture

Physical Demands

Physical Activities: Percentage of time (equaling 100%) during the normal workday the employee is required to:

• Sit: 40%
• Walk: 30%
• Stand: 20%
• Lift: 10%

Required Lifting and Carrying: Not required (0%), Occasional (1-33%), Frequent (34-66%), Continuous (67-100%)

For this position, the required frequency is:

• Up to 10 lbs.: Occasional
• Up to 20 lbs.: Not Required
• Up to 35 lbs.: Not Required
• Team-lift only (over 35 lbs.): Not Required

About Us: At the heart of this visionary project, Panasonic is committed to manufacturing cutting-edge cylindrical lithium-ion cells that will power the future of electric mobility. These cells will be meticulously crafted to meet the growing demands of the automotive industry, supporting various electric vehicle manufacturers in their quest for eco-friendly transportation solutions.

This role presents a unique chance to be at the forefront of innovation, working within a forward-thinking organization that is committed to environmental responsibility and the advancement of green technology. Be a part of our mission to power the future and make a difference in the world of electric mobility with Panasonic!

Supplemental Information: Pre-employment drug testing is required. Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to respond to candidates of interest. All candidates must have valid authorization to work in the U.S. without restriction.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to characteristics protected by law.

Thank you for your interest in Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America.

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