04/27/2001 13320

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER 2

DEFINITION:

This is professional architectural work in designing or reviewing the designs of construction projects for the Commonwealth.

Employees in this class independently develop architectural designs for a variety of single and multi-discipline construction projects by handling projects from beginning to end, including the design and coordination of work with other disciplines, to ensure project integrity. Work also involves the review of designs prepared by outside consultants for conformity to architectural standards, agency rules, regulations and safety laws, and codes and may include the restoration, preservation and repair of Pennsylvania historic structures in keeping with the Secretary of Interior's standards for historic preservation in the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission. Assignments are received in project form and reviewed upon completion for compliance with architectural standards, agency requirements, and construction and safety laws and codes by an Architectural Supervisor or other professional supervisor.

EXAMPLES OF WORK:

Develops architectural designs for a variety of single and multi-discipline construction projects, and independently handles routine and complex projects from beginning to end for agencies throughout the Commonwealth.

Participates in plan development for major renovations and alterations and prepares a variety of detailed cost estimates for labor, materials, and equipment.

Serves as a project coordinator and independently reviews and evaluates the feasibility of work requests; determines the scope of work; conducts site survey; compiles data; prepares technical field reports; recommends architectural design solutions which may include the restoration, preservation or repair of Pennsylvania historic structures.

Utilizes Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) software and manual drafting techniques to create design drawings; calculates cost estimates; prepares contract documents; expedites the contracts; and solves problems during the construction of the project until completion.

Maintains construction cost records on projects; and provides cost estimates and general project information to reviewing architects, engineers and legal staff. Exchanges information with technicians and professionals, representatives of other departments, and internal department staff to facilitate a coordinated effort on construction projects and provide status updates.

Prepares architectural design data, calculations, detailed drawings and rough drafts of specifications in compliance with architectural principles and practices, agency requirements, and construction and safety laws and codes.

Reviews architectural project submissions for adherence to specifications, such as cost breakdowns, shop drawings, descriptive data, and other related information; approves submissions or reviews discrepancies with supervisor; and participates in job conferences.

Reviews shop drawings, catalogue cuts, and sources of supply to ensure compliance with contract specifications and project functionality.

Reviews and analyzes change orders from design professionals or contractors for credits, deletions or additions for construction projects to determine necessity, cost/benefit and compatibility with overall architectural design.

Performs related work as required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Knowledge of the principles and practices of architectural design, and materials selection.

Knowledge of the principles and practices of construction and construction cost estimating.

Knowledge of the principles of building construction, including the common practices and sequences for the various architectural structures such as wall bearings, steel frame, and reinforced concrete.

Knowledge of the standard reference sources for construction design, which include costs, principle applications, and characteristics of materials, fixtures, and equipment.

Ability to solve mathematical problems using algebra, plane and solid geometry, and plane trigonometry.

Ability to critically review and recognize a sound functional design and select materials to ensure an efficient and cost effective building or structure.

Ability to read and interpret architectural design and civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering drawings and specifications used in the design and construction of projects.

Ability to interpret, and apply Federal, state, and local codes, regulations, and standards pertinent to architectural projects.

Ability to assemble architectural specifications for Commonwealth buildings and structures.

Ability to operate a micro-station Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) system and provide skilled manual drafting services.

Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with associates, consultants, contractors, government officials, and the general public.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING:

One year as an Architectural Designer 1;

                                                                                                                                               or

Two years of professional architectural experience which involved designing components of commercial, institutional, or educational buildings or structures, and a bachelor's degree in architecture or architectural engineering or a closely related field which included major course work in architectural design;

                                                                                                                                              or

An equivalent combination of experience and training in architectural design work.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT:

Certain positions in this class may require licensure as a Registered Architect by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania or a reciprocal jurisdiction.