At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. Your Impact At Jacobs, you’ll have the opportunity to drive meaningful change within a leading global organization. As the third-largest architectural firm worldwide by revenue, Jacobs is ENR-ranked #1 in Science & Technology, #2 in Higher Education, and #1 in Program Management—for four consecutive years. We lead the way in building design and construction, offering exceptional opportunities to contribute to innovative, high-impact projects. We are expanding our leadership team to strengthen our presence in the Texas higher education market and across various geographies in the western U.S. As part of this growth, we are seeking a dynamic Higher Education Practice Leader to join our West Central Leadership Team. This new leadership role will focus primarily on Texas, while also supporting strategic initiatives across the broader West Central region and the Northwestern United States. In this role, you’ll gain access to top-tier talent, cutting-edge expertise, and valuable lessons learned across our Science & Technology, commercial, and private sectors. You’ll leverage this global knowledge base to bring fresh insights and proven strategies into our higher education projects. Your contributions will help further differentiate Jacobs in a competitive market, shaping the future of learning environments around the world. Why Join Us * A caring, inclusive culture and passionate people * Jacobs is the 3rd largest architectural firm in the world by revenue * In Texas alone, we have over 200 professionals ready to deploy on higher education projects, plus 150 architects across the West with direct higher education experience * A robust practice in Texas with a large higher education client base and a wide range of client contracts and agreements Primary Responsibilities * Lead and grow our Higher Education practice, primarily in Texas, with a focus on the West Central region * Shape the strategic direction of the practice across various western geographies, including California, Oregon, Idaho, and Washington * Serve as the operational and delivery lead for the higher education market sector * Collaborate with sales teams to leverage university relationships and drive business development * Develop and maintain strong internal and external client networks * Identify and elevate premier design opportunities in the market * Participating in Go/No-Go decisions and strategic planning * Lead proposal development, interviews, and team formation for RFPs and RFQs * Foster a collaborative, high-performing project team culture * Set and manage client expectations through surveys and milestone check-ins * Oversee project financials, schedules, staffing, and quality assurance * Facilitate communication plans and conduct regular status reviews with clients and teams * Ensure contract obligations are met, and risks are effectively managed * Provide strong team leadership to drive value, efficiency, and client satisfaction * Bachelor’s degree in architecture and licensure as a Registered Architect (AIA) * Proven leadership experience in the higher education sector, including managing a sizable practice and strong name recognition among university executives * Background in Science and Research facilities— Jacobs’ primary focus in the higher education space is on complex technical projects, including research laboratories, clean rooms, and other engineering-driven solutions. that our architects and engineers work so well together on. * Hands-on leader with full life cycle project management experience and established university client relationships * Experience leading 15-20 large higher education projects in the $30-50 million range, with several exceeding $250 million * 10+ years designing and delivering innovative complex technical design projects for higher education clients including research laboratories (engineering, health science, biology, chemistry, etc.) * 10+ years of management involving direct client contact and full responsibility for projects, with examples of new construction project delivery from design through construction * 10+ years of experience working as a licensed project architect * Deep understanding of university client dynamics and the ability to navigate complex relationships * Senior Project Managers with recent, relevant university projects and strong client relationships who are ready to step into a leadership role will also be considered. Ideally, you’ll also have: * Master’s degree * NCARB certificate holder Join us in this new position to make a lasting impact on the future of higher education in Texas, and various geographies in the west. If you are passionate about leading and growing and robust practice, we want to hear from you! Apply Now to be part of our innovative team at Jacobs! Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language.