Job Summary
The Strategic Space Planner plays a critical role in shaping the physical learning environment of the institution by evaluating planning and optimizing the use of all space types including spaces for academics athletics healthcare research operations etc. to strategically maximize the efficient use of space. This position will assess strategic growth initiatives and assist in the planning and development of strategic objectives for the organization. Conduct studies on operational effectiveness capacity utilization and operating cost containment. This position collaborates with faculty administrators and facilities staff to ensure that academic space usage aligns with institutional goals pedagogical needs enrollment trends and 5yr prioritization and 10 yr strategic plans. This position will make recommendations related to campus spaces based on industry best practices USHE standards facilities conditions assessments university goals and targets and other unique space planning needs of the institution. This position will utilize a strong understanding of business process analysis workforce planning and operational reviews.
Responsibilities
Develop and oversee the space management database system Conduct comprehensive space utilization analyses and develop recommendations for effective space allocation and reallocation Manage studies and other projects for U Facilities and Campus Planning Partner with campus departments and leadership to assess current and future space needs based on program growth Analyze and visualize data about campus space uses sizes and scheduling patterns as well as the impact of proposed and ongoing changes. Conduct onsite space surveys validate existing floorplans and update space drawings using AutoCAD or similar software Develop and maintain a space inventory system tracking square footage occupancy and utilization rates across all campus facilities. Support long-range planning capital strategy new construction renovation and space utilization initiatives for all non-clinical space on the UU Campus Prepare reports visualizations and presentations that clearly communicate space usage data and planning scenarios Facilitate stakeholder meetings and space planning workshops with campus units Coordinate and align space planning efforts with the institutions strategic plan master plan project prioritization plans and accreditation requirements. Benchmark space standards and utilization metrics against peer institutions and best practices in higher education. Monitor the implementation of space planning strategies and provide post-occupancy evaluations. Analyze and visualize data about campus space uses sizes and scheduling patterns as well as the impact of proposed and ongoing changes. Collaborate with the university Space Planning and Scheduling to ensure space changes are being accurately tracked in Archibus and/or GIS so as to provide an always current inventory of assets. Participate in on-site space audits to create and validate databases by observing campus conditions. Conduct research assignments related to past current and future best practices related to space planning and space metrics that will inform university decision making. Required; Bachelors degree in Architecture Urban Planning Facilities Management or a related field. 4 -6 years of relevant experience in space planning facilities planning or institutional research preferably in a higher education setting Strong analytical skills including experience with data collection analysis and visualization tools (e.g. Excel Tableau Power BI ArcGIS Pro). Proficiency in design software such as AutoCAD GIS or similar. Strong understanding of database creation and management best practices. Ability to build comprehensive clear and accurate data reports within spreadsheet and database systems. Highly proficient with Microsoft Excel Archibus and other space management software. Experience with data visualization and creation of data dashboards. Excellent communication collaboration and project management skills. Ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and manage multiple priorities.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelors degree or equivalency (one year of education can be substituted for two years of related work experience) plus three years of support experience in an administrative environment. A commitment to provide excellent customer service required. Demonstrated human relations communication managerial negotiating planning and analytical skills are essential to this position. Computer competencies include Word Office as well as working knowledge of AutoCAD and GIS .