Operations Director

Kent, WA
Full Time
Executive


Operations Director

Join a Mission-Driven A/E Firm That’s Building More Than Just Projects

Spees Design Build (SDB) is a nationally recognized architecture and engineering firm driven by purpose, integrity, and technical excellence. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB), we specialize in delivering complex, mission-critical design solutions for federal agencies.
Our work directly supports those who serve, and we approach every project with a deep sense of responsibility and pride. At SDB, we are committed to delivering best-value solutions through collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering dedication to quality
We foster a culture where people support one another, challenge the status quo, and grow together. From cross-disciplinary teamwork to shared successes, our environment encourages open communication, professional development, and meaningful work that makes a difference.

Where Potential Meets Purpose: Spees Design Build

We are currently seeking a highly motivated Operations Director to join our growing A/E team in Kent, WA. In this role, you will work directly with the CEO, COO and department leaders across the firm. This role offers the opportunity to lead and oversee complex, multi-disciplinary design efforts for federal clients—including the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense—on projects that directly improve built environments and public-sector communities. From design phase initiation through to final construction punchlist, the Operations Director provides strategic oversight and leadership, guiding Project Managers and discipline leads to ensure seamless execution across all phases of the project lifecycle.

As Operations Director, you will be responsible for leading our Project Managers, technical discipline leads, and supporting business development/marketing efforts ensuring that final deliverables meet scope, schedule, and compliance expectations. From design phase initiation through final construction support, you will guide our team to deliver integrated, technically sound, and mission-aligned solutions across the full project lifecycle.
At Spees Design Build, we value technical excellence, and client-focused collaboration, to deliver service-oriented design solutions. This position offers the opportunity to shape high-impact projects that improve critical infrastructure and public-sector facilities across the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated strength in Leading and Managing A/E design teams.
  • Ability to cultivate client relationships to secure revenue streams and inspire teams to deliver aligned project outcomes.
  • Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
  • Active professional licensure as a Registered Architect (RA), Professional Mechanical Engineer (PE), or Professional Electrical Engineer (PE).
  • Minimum 15 years of progressive A/E experience, preferably on federal projects.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present ideas clearly to both clients and teams.
  • Proven analytical and critical-thinking abilities to support design development and problem-solving.
  • Strong knowledge of design and coordination tools.
  • Hands-on experience overseeing the development of multi-disciplinary drawing sets and technical specifications.
  • Understanding of applicable codes, building standards, and effective space planning strategies
  • Team-oriented mindset with a commitment to contributing to a collaborative and inclusive studio culture.
Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Lead and manage multidisciplinary teams through all phases of design, from planning to construction administration, for federal and state clients.
  • Serve as primary point of contact for internal project management and design disciplines; overseeing the management of scope, schedules, budgets, and overall project performance.
  • Lead internal meetings, stakeholder sessions, and client presentations.
  • Oversee the review and approve drawings, specs, estimates, and bid packages for code and regulatory compliance (UFC, VA TIL, IBC, NFPA).
  • Coordinate with internal staff and external consultants to develop cohesive, technically sound solutions.
  • Lead QA/QC reviews and enforce firm-wide quality standards.
  • Provide construction support services: submittal/RFI reviews, site visits, punch lists, and progress checks.
  • Mentor junior staff and promote adherence to design and documentation standards.
  • Manage consultant scopes and assist with contract and fee negotiations.
  • Contribute to firm initiatives and support special projects as needed.

What SDB offers:

Spees Design Build offers a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support the well-being and financial security of our team members. Benefits include:
  • Hybrid Work Schedule
  • Medical and Dental Insurance Options
  • Company Life Insurance Plan
  • Tax-free Health Savings Account (HSA)
  • Flexible Paid Time Off (PTO) policy
  • Performance-based bonuses
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching
Salary Range
  • $160,000 – $200,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications (DOE).
Spees Design Build Commitment
It is the employment policy and practice of Spees Design Build to recruit and to hire qualified employees without discrimination based on race, color, religion (including religious dress and grooming practices), sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, age, mental and physical disability, pregnancy, medical condition, genetic information, political affiliation, union membership, status as a parent, marital status, military or veteran status, or other classes protected by applicable law, and to not discriminate concerning compensation and opportunities for advancement, including upgrading, promotion, and transfers. We will provide reasonable accommodation to qualified individuals throughout the application, interviewing, and employment process. If you require reasonable accommodation, please contact us.

Growth, Gratitude, and Opportunity
At Spees Design Build, we know that people do their best work when they’re supported, challenged, and appreciated. That’s why we believe in more than just project delivery—we invest in our team. Whether it's growing into new roles, tackling ambitious design challenges, or simply enjoying quarterly events, picnics, and offsite team-building retreats, we create space for both professional success and genuine connection. You'll be surrounded by people who care about their work and each other, and who bring energy, and humility to the office every day. If you're ready to be part of something bigger, there’s no better place to build your career.

Spees Design Build Awards
  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2024
  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2023
  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2022
  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2021
  • Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies 2020
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