Studio Operations Manager Job at Archinect in Los Angeles

About The Role

AENARA is a multidisciplinary design studio devoted to advancing technologies supporting human exploration and habitation beyond Earth. With a specific focus on construction technologies, AENARA supports the development of new research in architectural robotics, systems supporting crews in Earth-independent environments, and in space architecture.

We are seeking a highly organized, strategic, and detail-oriented Studio Operations Manager to lead administrative and operational functions in Los Angeles. This role is central to ensuring that all studio activities — from complex fabrication projects to creative partnerships — are delivered on time, on budget, and to the highest level of excellence.

The ideal candidate has a background in design, architecture, art production, or creative operations, with a demonstrated ability to oversee procurement and scheduling and develop partnerships or sponsorships that expand the reach and impact of the studio’s work.

Key Responsibilities

• Studio Operations & Project Management: Manage studio operations, including scheduling, procurement, resourcing, and workflow optimization.
• Oversee project timelines and ensure milestones are met across internal teams, collaborators, and external vendors.
• Lead procurement of materials, services, and components for large-scale, specialty projects with complex fabrication needs.
• Identify, negotiate, and manage vendor relationships and contracts, ensuring quality, cost-efficiency, and timely delivery.

Financial & Contractual Oversight

• Manage and track project and studio-wide budgets, invoicing, and reporting.
• Review contracts, scopes of work, and consultant agreements.

Business Development & Strategic Partnerships

• Support the growth of the studio by identifying and developing new business opportunities in the realms of design, art, and creative fabrication.
• Research and establish relationships with potential sponsors, partners, or grant-making institutions.
• Develop compelling proposals to support partnership or sponsorship opportunities.
• Represent the studio in external meetings and communications related to business development, funding, or client relations.

Qualifications

Required:

• 1–7 years of experience in studio management, operations, architectural or art production, or related fields.
• Experience managing complex project schedules across multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong vendor coordination and contract negotiation skills, especially in the context of bespoke fabrication or specialty construction.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and leadership abilities.
• Demonstrated experience in relationship management and client-facing roles.

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Fine Art, Architecture, Business Management, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience with business development, customer relationship management, and sponsorship and partnership development within creative or cultural sectors.
• Familiarity with large-scale fabrication, public art, architectural installations, or design/build workflows.

Additional Details

• This role is available as full-time or part-time.
• Must be available for coordination with teams based in Los Angeles.

Please apply with a CV, cover letter, and relevant work samples (portfolio or writing samples).