Job Description

Summary

The County Architect serves as the primary liaison with architects, engineers, construction contractors and municipalities. The County Architect provides technical guidance to the Department Directors and is responsible for the oversight and management of professional design firms selected for various projects within the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) relating to the various types of buildings constructed, owned, maintained or operated by the County of Delaware.

Essential Duties

• Coordinates with Department Directors to establish project goals and objectives to inform the scope and budget for various capital projects
• Develops the scope of work for projects on the Capital Improvement Plan
• Creates detailed project schedules for projects identified in the capital improvement program
• Evaluates County program needs to determine the square footage required for delivery of services
• Collaborates with Department Directors, architects, and engineers to deliver functional and visually appealing designs
• Acts as an in-house technical resource for members of the Sustainability team
• Maintains a monthly report of active design projects that is submitted to the Director of Public Works
• Develops feasibility reports and design proposals
• Investigates buildings and sites proposed for acquisition by the County to secure data, such as measurements, condition of building systems, and approximate renovation costs
• Prepares preliminary drawings, designs and specifications
• Coordinates with the County Solicitor and Real Property Manager on arrangements for appraisals, title reports, environmental testing and building and/or land surveys.
• Serves as the County\'s liaison with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) on review and approval of design documents, required submissions for interpretation of codes, and public presentations
• Issues Request for Proposals seeking professional design services, including the development of a scope of work, creation of an evaluation committee, and recommendations on selection for approval by County Council
• Partners with the Central Purchasing Department to establish a public bidding timeline for capital projects
• Reviews design submissions from professional design firms and provides comments to ensure the documentation reflects the project scope and established budget, and compliance with County standards and building code
• Attends progress meetings with the design team and contractors during construction
• Demonstrates experience planning and developing facilities including, but not limited to campus layouts, parking facilities, playgrounds, athletic fields, and storm water management systems
• Prepares reports and provides updates to the County senior leadership and County Council as required.

• Perform other duties, tasks and special projects, as needed.

Qualifications

Qualifications / Requirements:

• Professional degree in Architecture, Engineering, Construction Management or related field is required.
• Professional Registration in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
• 7-10 years of relevant experience in design and construction
• Knowledge of the planning, zoning and land development process
• Must be able to read and interpret construction drawings and associated operation and maintenance materials.
• Excellent drawing skills and familiarity with design and rendering software
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team environment, prioritize work, manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and quickly adjust or change course as needed.
• Ability to present information and answer questions in public meetings.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, communication skills, flexibility, and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated ability to work with culturally diverse people
• Proven negotiation skills
• Visual awareness and an eye for detail
• Demonstrated ability to organize complex projects, meet critical deadlines and assume primary responsibility for completion of assignments.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Strong customer service experience.
• Ability to work as part of a team.
• Ability to identify problems and forward to correct person.
• A valid driver\'s license is required.
• Ability to travel throughout the County and municipalities and navigate buildings and construction sites as required.

Preferred Skills, Knowledge & Experience:

• Cross-training in architecture and engineering
• Good knowledge of architectural practice and theory
• Good knowledge of the principles and practices of architectural design and drafting
• Knowledge of green building rating systems
• Ability to follow office protocols
• Ability to handle and resolve recurring problems.
• Ability to remain focused on daily operations.
• Familiarity with Delaware County is a plus

Computer Skills:

To perform this job successfully, an individual should have:

• Intermediate Word skills
• Intermediate Excel skills
• Intermediate Outlook skills (Email and Calendar)
• Advanced internet skills for research purposes
• Building management systems software skills
• Asset management software skills
• Project management software skills

Additional Information

Physical Demands:

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is frequently required to stand, walk, sit, drive to and from locations, and talk or hear. Occasionally, there is a need to reach above shoulders; kneel, stoop, crouch or squat; climb stairs; climb ladders; and work with an uncommon level of noise. This position also requires a keen sense of hearing and a strong sense of smell.

There are no special vision requirements listed for this position.

Work Environment:

• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
• Work is performed primarily inside in both office and mechanical/utility areas.
• Some outside observation of conditions or work in progress may be necessary.
• Ability to climb and work in high, precarious places (roof inspections).

Other:

• This position requires professionalism.
• Ability to work extended hours, when needed.
• On-call responsibilities for emergency response 24/7/365.

Residence Requirement: The County of Delaware has a residency requirement for employees. Anyone applying for this job must reside in Delaware County or be willing to move to the County within three months of starting employment.

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