Architectural Technical Leader - Civic & Justice

Overview

Architectural Technical Leader - Civic & Justice at NELSON Worldwide. The Technical Leader is a Licensed Architect and Detention Specialist responsible for QA/QC adherence, documentation standards, and maintaining a high level of technical proficiency. Serves as the resident technical expert within the office management and firm-wide technical teams, mentoring in document control practices and ensuring superior quality in construction documents, development, and coordination.

Establishes and promotes local or firm-wide best technical practices, QA/QC processes, and document standards. Inspires innovative use of systems, products and technology through the introduction of new products, systems, and technologies. The Technical Leader also contributes to staffing and performance and has the ability to seal construction documents.

Experience in Civic & Justice building typologies is strongly preferred (e.g., Correctional facilities, Detention Centers, Courthouses). Other preferred experience includes municipalities, police and fire stations, city and county buildings, and other public works/public safety buildings.

• Architecture license required in at least one state
• Bachelor of Architecture from an accredited university (minimum)
• 20+ years of experience in architecture
• Experience as a Technical Director, Account Manager, and/or Senior Project Manager
• Excellent understanding of building technology, documentation, and project delivery
• Knowledge of sustainability, integrated design, LEED/Well/Energy Star guidelines
• Extensive knowledge of building construction, materials, and standards
• Extensive knowledge of zoning and building codes and ADAAG regulations
• Proficiency in Deltek Vision / Vantagepoint
• Proficiency in financial management concepts
• Familiarity with software used by project teams (Newforma, Bluebeam, Revit, Sketch Up, Rhino, Grasshopper, Pro Core, InDesign, Enscape, CAD)
• Strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills
• Self-motivated with strong management skills
• Innovative problem-solver with strong design skills
• Ability to ensure permitting requirements are incorporated into deliverables
• Experience across large-scale projects and various building types
• Expertise in construction administration management

• Lead planning and execution for large-scale projects
• Manage QA/QC procedures per company protocols and project process requirements
• Provide QA reviews on larger projects
• Set goals and expectations for high-quality construction documents
• Lead risk management through QA/QC and document control processes
• Space planning and construction document review for code and ADA compliance
• Review and train teams on building and accessibility code reviews
• Assist teams in working with local jurisdictions on permit review and code interpretations
• Review and comment on client contracts as requested
• Foster diversity and inclusive environment
• Communicate effectively, organize tasks, and manage time frames
• Lead initiatives to strengthen culture, knowledge, and capabilities
• Mentor and develop talent within the studio
• Promote a positive studio environment and team harmony
• Leverage individual strengths for professional development and team performance
• Provide constructive feedback to support continuous learning
• Lead QA/QC and technical design education initiatives during meetings
• Review and contribute to project proposal plans for deliverables and timelines

• Meet weekly with project leads to track progress
• Direct project leads to resolve project-related issues
• Evaluate team skills and provide staffing recommendations
• Participate in staffing and interview processes with Practice Leadership
• Stay knowledgeable about active projects

• Update and maintain NELSON QAQC Standards
• Ensure project leads follow QA/QC protocols
• Review project boards for efficient delivery
• Oversee construction document assembly for each project phase
• Identify risks and communicate with project manager and leadership
• Review drawings and specifications for quality control
• Guide project teams on design details and constructability
• Evaluate new construction systems/materials for suitable applications and liability
• Utilize NELSON resources to deliver quality technical design
• Share best practices across the studio
• Prioritize and meet deadlines, delegate tasks, and deliver high-quality service
• Review and approve Revit details and assemblies for library use
• Conduct occasional site visits to observe detailing and share learnings
• Provide guidance during Construction Administration on RFI responses and submittal reviews

• Review project budgets and mentor teams to follow them
• Manage projects of significance within the practice to support workload and utilization targets

• Provide budget/proposal support and optimize project profitability
• Review project budgets and coordinate fees to ensure profitability and consistency
• Define scope of work, establish project fees, and develop budgets
• Experience working…