04/27/2001 13310

ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER 1

DEFINITION:

This is professional architectural work in designing or reviewing the designs of small or routine construction projects or component parts of larger and more complex projects and structures for the Commonwealth.

Employees in this class serve as the architect for projects involving small buildings and structures of standard design or designs component parts of a large, complex architectural system when the controlling parameters for the system have been developed. Work may involve the review of designs prepared by consultants for conformity to architectural standards, agency rules and regulations, and safety laws and codes. Work is usually confined to one phase of architecture or architectural design, involves coordinating that specialty with engineering disciplines, 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 given 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 small buildings and structures such as salt storage sheds, roofs, and interior partitions and ceilings, or component parts of large, complex construction projects for the Commonwealth.

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

Reviews work requests and discusses project scope with supervisor; conducts site survey, assembles data, prepares technical field reports and recommends architectural design solutions which may include the restoration, preservation and repair of Pennsylvania historic structures.

Utilizes Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) software and manual drafting techniques to create design drawings, and calculates preliminary cost estimates.

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 cost breakdowns, shop drawings, catalogue cuts, sources of supply, descriptive data, and other related information submitted by consultants for adherence to specifications, contracts, and project function. Participates in job conferences, and approves submissions or reviews discrepancies with the supervisor.

Reviews and analyzes change orders for construction projects from design professionals or contractors on credits, deletions or additions 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 common practices and sequences for various architectural structures such as wall bearings, steel frames, 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 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 construction projects.

Ability to assemble architectural specifications for small structures or components of larger 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:

Successful completion of the training program for an Architectural Designer Trainee;

                                                                                                                                                            or

One year 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.