Architect at U.S. Embassy South Africa

Duties

Basic Function of Position

• Working under the Overseas Buildings Operations (OBO) ORSC Deputy Director, the Architect is responsible for construction inspection, reviewing of plans, recommending approval of shop drawings and submittals, maintaining a daily log of construction activities, developing change orders including preparation of cost estimates, and other construction architectural duties for the  assigned projects in the Area of Responsibility. The Architect must be capable of working independently and provide professional architectural services in support of the project.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

Construction Site Management 50%

• Observes the execution of construction to assure adherence to approved shop drawings and specifications including inspection of construction workmanship, materials, methods, and equipment.
• Notifies the ORSC Deputy Director of potential conflicts in the design and non-conformity with the contract documents.
• Makes recommendations to the ORSC Deputy Director on how to correct deficiencies and resolve problems during construction.
• Maintains daily construction surveillance logs while ensuring contractor’s compliance with the terms and conditions of the contract between the construction contractor and the Government.
• Responsible for assuring that all construction work in his/her technical area of expertise is carried out in a safe and coordinated mann

Construction Administration 25%

• Reviews and analyzes the contractor’s change order proposals and substitution requests of services, equipment, and materials for cost and schedule impacts, and makes recommendations to the ORSC Deputy Director concerning compliance with the design intent of the contract documents.
• Reviews architectural drawings, technical specifications, and prepares independent government cost estimates for construction change orders or to support U.S. installed equipment.
• Prepares costs of alternatives to design and specifications when requested by the ORSC Deputy Director.
• Reviews and analyzes material samples, catalogs and brochures, shop drawings, installation manuals, and other technical documents submitted by the construction contractor for conformity with construction contract requirements.
• Prepare written reports of the analysis, incorporating comments, and provide recommendations and alternatives for appropriate action to the ORSC Deputy Director.
• Attend weekly and monthly meetings held by the construction contractor and/or OBO (e.g., QC meetings, pre-installation meetings, safety meetings, and other job site meetings as requested.).

Architectural Reports and documentation 25%

• Identifies architectural constructability concerns in the construction documents and non-compliant architectural works as observed on site.
• Reviews and evaluates construction details and data provided by the contractor and advises the ORSC Deputy Director  on the technical adequacy of the contractor’s submittals.
• Drafts plans and details to address constructability and/or design concerns using Computer Assisted Drafting (CAD) software. Reviews the contractor’s records to ensure that an accurate record of as-built conditions is being maintained.
• Identify and provide early notification of potential schedule slippages regarding the architectural construction activities.
• Prepares weekly, monthly, and other reports of the progress of construction as required by the ORSC Deputy Director.
• Prepares entries for the project daily log and reports; must provide digital photographic records to support reports.
• Reviews monthly pay applications related to architectural construction activities and provides evaluation to ORSC Deputy Director.
• Reviews any proposals for changes in construction or methods for time implications and submits recommendations to the
• ORSC Deputy Director including recommending the amount of time extensions that are justified by the change.

Qualifications and Evaluations

Requirements:

• All selected candidates must be able to obtain and hold a:
• Public Trust Security Clearance. 
• All selected candidates will be subject to a background investigation and may be subject to a pre-employment medical exam.  
• Selected candidate must be able to begin working within a reasonable period of time (12 weeks) upon receipt of agency authorization and/or clearances/certifications or their candidacy may end.

Education Requirements:

• University degree in architecture from an accredited institution is required.

Evaluations:

• You will be evaluated against the qualifications and requirements in this vacancy announcement. 
• You may be asked to complete a pre-employment language or skills test.
• You must complete the application form and provide the required documents. 
• Your application must address all the position qualifications and requirements including education, experience, language, and any knowledge/skills/abilities listed.  If you fail to submit a complete application, then your application may be disqualified for this position.

Qualifications:

Experience:

• At least five years of experience in the field of architecture related to building construction and renovations is required.

Job Knowledge:

• Must have knowledge of U.S. building codes and specifications including an understanding of DOS/OBO construction regulations and guidelines, OBO commissioning, and construction guidebook. Knowledge of local building and construction codes, architectural laws, codes, and permits applicable to local construction environment, local safety and security rules.
• Must be familiar with the local government structures, jurisdictions, key persons, processes to guarantee effective authorizations and related engagement. Professional knowledge in the field of architectural principles, practices and technical perspectives, as well as thorough professional knowledge in project management.

Skills And Abilities:

• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook) and Internet Research is required. Professional skills and experience using construction management software such as AutoCAD and Revit. Ability to create architectural cost estimates and review construction drawings for code compliance is required. Must be able to lift items up to 35 pounds. Must hold a valid driver’s license.