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IA Interior Architects translates client goals, brand and culture into powerful environments built around people, processes, technologies and business drivers. Our clients in diverse markets worldwide require high-performance, visually compelling and sustainable environments to move their enterprise forward, support their culture, engage their staff, integrate technology and drive efficiencies. As architects, designers, workplace strategists and environmental specialists in the largest global architecture firm concentrating exclusively on interiors, we help clients articulate and align their business strategies and core values with the dynamic use of space.
Our team members are collaborative, creative, professional, expert and entrepreneurial. Joining our team requires skill, daring, leadership, teaming, humor and a love of interiors.
Aviation / Airport Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced Aviation / Airport Subject Matter Expert to join our Miami studio. This role offers a clear path to leadership for a Project Architect or Project Manager ready to take on full responsibility for project and program management.
The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in aviation and airport environments, guiding complex projects from early planning through delivery while serving as a trusted advisor to clients and internal teams.
Job Responsibilities
Leadership & Program Management
Serve as the primary client liaison, leading relationships from initial needs assessment through project delivery
Provide aviation/airport expertise across planning, design, and implementation phases
Manage large-scale aviation projects and multiple concurrent assignments
Support long-term program strategies for aviation clients and airport authorities
Project Management
Prepare and negotiate fee proposals and consultant contracts
Lead projects from inception through construction administration
Oversee risk management planning, identifying challenges and implementing mitigation strategies
Ensure adherence to project budgets, schedules, billing, and profitability targets
Coordinate stakeholder engagement, including airport authorities, operators, and regulatory bodies
Integrate sustainability, resiliency, and operational efficiency into aviation projects
Design & Technical Coordination
Collaborate with design and technical teams to shape aviation-focused design concepts
Coordinate with senior technical staff to resolve complex design challenges
Oversee preparation of contract documents and ensure compliance with codes, standards, and ADA requirements
Lead or support production of schematic design, design development, and construction documents
Direct construction administration activities and coordinate with contractors and consultants
Champion BIM standards and digital collaboration tools across project teams
Business Development
Identify and pursue aviation and airport project opportunities
Contribute to proposals, interviews, and marketing presentations
Build and maintain strong client relationships to generate repeat and referral business
Support strategic growth initiatives within the aviation sector
Mentorship & Team Leadership
Assign tasks, oversee deliverables, and provide guidance to team members
Mentor staff and support professional development
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing team environment
Education, Work Experience, and Leadership
Education
Degree in Architecture or Interior Design (or equivalent experience)
10–15+ years of professional experience, including:
Aviation / airport project experience (required for SME role)
5+ years managing projects
Licensed Architect or Interior Designer required
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities
Deep understanding of aviation/airport planning, operations, and design standards
Familiarity with complex procurement processes and industry guidelines
Experience with building systems and envelope detailing (preferred)
Advanced proficiency in:
Revit (BIM modeling)
Adobe Creative Suite
Microsoft Office Suite
Strong presentation, graphic communication, and storytelling skills
Excellent verbal and written communication abilities
Ability to lead complex, multidisciplinary teams in highly regulated environments
Interior Architects, Inc. (IA) provides equal opportunity in all aspects of recruitment and employment to all persons without regard to their race, color, creed, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marital status, nationality, national origin or ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, veteran status, uniformed service member and to promote the full realization of equal employment opportunities.