Architect

Engineering

40 hours per week, Full-Time, Non-Exempt

The Architect is involved in the planning and design of County facilities related to architectural, landscaping, planning and aesthetic issues.  Projects involving this position range from streetscapes to space planning and building design.  The Architect works primarily with the Building section within the Engineering Division, with other County departments and divisions, and consultants, as directed by the County Engineer.  This position reports to the Principal Engineer II – Buildings.

Essential Functions

1. Assists County departments and divisions with office space planning.
2. Prepares conceptual and architectural plans for County spaces, including office space plans for departments and divisions, and for interior and exterior public spaces.
3. Assists the Highway Section of the Engineering Division in the design and preparation of plans for streetscape projects, including the design of pavement patterns, signage, and the selection of materials, and the preparation of specifications and contract documents.
4. Assists the Park Section of the Engineering Division regarding design of special projects and plan and specification review.
5. Assists Somerset County Planning Board regarding issues related to architectural and urban design.
6. Prepares grant applications for County and municipal projects to County, State and Federal programs.
7. Reviews plans and specifications.
8. Prepares for and attends meetings to explain status of projects and solicit comments.
9. Assists municipalities that have shared services agreements with Somerset County in urban and architectural design issues.
10. Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Public Works.

Essential Qualifications

• The position requires a Master of Architecture degree or Landscape Architecture degree from an accredited college.
• Five years of experience in architectural and/or landscape design, maintenance and construction of projects, including the preparation and review of construction plans and specifications.
• Knowledge of architectural and landscape design and experience in office space planning and design of public spaces.
• In order to effectively interact with the concerns of local citizens, municipal officials, various State and Federal agencies, the media, and conduct public hearings on proposed projects, the incumbent must possess excellent oral, written and graphic communications skills, with special emphasis on conveying complex technical issues to a non-technical audience.
• The Design Specialist must possess a valid New Jersey Driver’s License.
   

Preferred

• Knowledge of County policy and procedures.
• Knowledge of AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and Microsoft PowerPoint.