DEFINITION
Under direct and general supervision, performs professional architectural work and manages capital projects of varying sizes across a broad range of County project types. Inspects and prioritizes needed construction, modifications, and building repairs; coordinates projects with departments; prepares project plans, specifications and requests for proposals. Responsible for consultant coordination, project budgeting, code compliance review, and contract administration; oversees the construction of projects and assures contractor compliance, performs related work as assigned.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXERCISED
Receives direct (Capital Projects Architect I) or general (Capital Projects Architect II) direction from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff
CLASS CHARACTERISTICS
Capital Projects Architect I: This is the first licensed professional level in the series. Initially under close supervision, incumbents perform professional duties in support of Public Works construction projects. As experience is gained, assignments become more varied, complex, and difficult; close supervision and frequent review of work lessen as an incumbent demonstrates skill to perform the work independently. Positions at this level usually perform most of the duties required of the positions at the II level but are not expected to function at the same skill level and usually exercise less independent discretion and judgment in matters related to work procedures and methods. Work is usually supervised at project-specific progress milestones and fits an established structure or pattern. Exceptions or changes in procedures are explained in detail as they arise.
Capital Projects Architect II: This is the journey-level classification in the Capital Projects Architect series. Positions at this level are distinguished from the Capital Projects Architect I by the performance of the full range of duties as assigned, working independently, taking on larger and more complex projects and assignments, and exercising judgment and initiative. Positions at this level receive only occasional instruction or assistance as new or unusual situations arise and are fully aware of the operating procedures and policies of the work unit.
This class is distinguished from the County Architect in that the latter has overall division-level administrative responsibility for the management of Countywide architectural, capital planning, facility maintenance and real property functions.
EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (Illustrative Only)
Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignment of different positions.
- Prepares and participates in the preparation of architectural design work for County facilities including developing project program requirements, master planning, sketch and preliminary plans, complete working drawings, specifications and cost estimates
- Directs and coordinates all phases of major capital projects.
- Prepares and administers consultant contracts.
- Conducts design and constructability reviews of architectural documents.
- Coordinates with regulatory agencies, contractors, and user departments.
- Monitors project schedules and budgets.
- Provides technical guidance to unlicensed staff.
- Participates in assessments and prioritization of construction, rehabilitation and remodeling projects under consideration.
- Coordinates development of requests for bids; conducts pre-bid conferences, participates in vendor selections.
- Coordinates construction projects, prepares change orders, monitors project compliance and schedule.
- Coordinates development of request for proposals for space acquisition including lease and alterations needed to meet the needs of requesting departments.
- Maintains project records including progress reports, financial reports, and timelines.
- Evaluates space needs, prepares recommendations, monitors property acquisitions and needed modifications to space.
- Reviews drawings, specifications and other deliverables prepared by others for compliance with federal, state and County standards, laws, and regulations.
- Serves as point of contact regarding construction and space needs for County departments.
- Prepares detailed progress reports and agenda items to present to the Board of Supervisors and others.
- Represents the County at meetings with state and local officials and/or others regarding County building projects.
- Performs other related duties as assigned.
The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge and ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
QUALIFICATIONS
Knowledge of:
- Principles and practices of architecture and construction project management including facility planning, design, construction, remodeling and rehabilitation.
- Principles and practices of public agency contract negotiation, administration, project management and evaluation.
- Applicable federal state and local laws, regulations, standards and policies of design and construction such as building codes, Federal ADA and State accessibility code requirements, and zoning codes.
- Structural, mechanical and electrical systems as related to institutional, commercial and office buildings.
- Principles and methods of cost estimating and evaluating appropriate building materials for projects.
- Principles of budgetary administration and control.
- Business information systems principles including design and related Computer Aided Design (CAD) & Building Information Modeling (BIM) software applications.
- Project scheduling, budgeting, and reporting methods.
- Techniques for providing a high level of customer service by effectively dealing with the public, vendors, contractors, and County staff.
- The structure and content of the English language, including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
- Modern equipment and communication tools used for business functions and program, project, and task coordination, including computers and software programs relevant to work performed.
Ability to:
- Prepare architectural plans and specifications using Computer Aided Design (CAD)and office software for construction and renovation projects.
- Read and interpret engineering and architectural plans and specifications.
- Manage, organize and coordinate the various components of projects.
- Direct and maintain multiple projects simultaneously consisting of a variety of contractual activity in multiple areas.
- Prepare construction materials and labor estimates for projects.
- Prepare comprehensive technical reports and specifications, and related business correspondence.
- Understand, interpret, and apply all pertinent laws, codes, regulations, policies and procedures, and standards relevant to work performed.
- Investigate issues with existing buildings in conjunction with Facilities staff and determine probable causes of, and solutions for damaged, leaking or failing construction assemblies and systems.
- Effectively represent the department and the County in meetings with governmental agencies; community groups; various business, professional, and regulatory organizations; and in meetings with individuals.
- Independently manage and maintain multiple projects of varying sizes simultaneously consisting of a variety of contractual activity in multiple areas.
- Use tact, initiative, prudence, and independent judgment within general policy and procedural guidelines.
- Effectively use computer systems, software applications relevant to work performed, and modern business equipment to perform a variety of work tasks.
- Communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, using appropriate English grammar and syntax.
- Establish, maintain, and foster positive and effective working relationships with those contacted in the course of work.
Education and Experience:
Any combination of training and experience that would provide the required knowledge, skills, and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the required qualifications would be:
Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree with major coursework in engineering, architecture, project management, or a related field
and
Capital Projects Architect I: Three (3) years of increasingly responsible experience as a professional architect, at least two of which have been on major building construction projects for a public agency and included project supervision.
Capital Projects Architect II: Two (2) years of experience performing increasingly responsible architectural work at a level equivalent to the County’s classification of Capital Projects Architect I.
Licenses and Certifications:
- Must possess a valid US driver’s license upon date of application. Must obtain California driver’s license following hire date per California DMV regulations.
- Must possess a valid license to practice as an Engineer or Architect in the State of California.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
- Mobility to work in a standard office setting and use standard office equipment, including a computer; to operate a motor vehicle and visit various County sites.
- Also mobility to work in the field; to sit, stand, and walk on level, uneven, or slippery surfaces; occasionally reach, twist, turn, kneel, bend, stoop, squat, crouch, grasp and make repetitive hand movement in the performance of daily duties; to climb and descend ladders; ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials and objects averaging a weight of 10 pounds.
- Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen.
- Hearing and speech to communicate in person and over the telephone.
- Finger dexterity is needed to access, enter, and retrieve data using a computer keyboard or calculator and to operate standard office equipment.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS- Employees work primarily in an office environment with moderate noise levels, and controlled temperature conditions.
- Also includes field work with exposure to loud noises, cold and hot temperatures, inclement weather conditions, chemicals, mechanical and/or electrical hazards, and hazardous physical substances and fumes.
- Employees may interact with upset staff and/or public and private representatives in interpreting and enforcing departmental policies and procedures.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS
Some departments may require pre-employment screening measures before an offer of employment can be made (i.e. background screening, physical examination, etc.).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
HOW TO APPLY
A complete, original application must be filed for each position you are interested in applying for. Applicants must apply online through the County’s automated application system at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/humboldtcountyca.
Applications must be submitted no later than the final filing date and time listed on the job flyer.
It is important that your application shows all the relevant education and experience you possess. Human Resources staff does not consider or review resumes or attachments. Incomplete applications will be rejected.
Please read the job requirements section of the announcement. Be sure you meet these requirements since they will be carefully evaluated during the selection process.
Your performance in any employment examinations will be compared with the performance of others who take the tests. The examination results will be emailed to you as quickly as possible.
SELECTION PROCEDURE
The County utilizes a set of rules to ensure that our hiring processes are fair and equitable. Applications will be screened and those considered qualified will be invited to appear for an oral and/or written examination. Meeting the requirements does not guarantee inclusion into the selection process. Depending upon the number of applications received, the selection process may consist of additional application screening, written and/or practical exam(s), oral interview, or any combination thereof.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does it take to fill out the application?
- You should allow 30 – 45 minutes to fill out your application.
Can I change my application after submitting it?
- No. Once an application has been submitted, it is final. Applicants may submit a new application with updated information during the filing period if they wish. Only the most recent application submitted will be considered. All other applications will not be considered.
How long until I hear back from you and how can I check for updates on my application?
- You may receive communications regarding your application at different stages of the selection process. Important updates will be sent to the email address listed in your governmentjobs.com account at the time of notification. To ensure you don't miss any critical information, we recommend keeping your email address current and regularly checking both your inbox and junk mail folders throughout the process. You can also log into your governmentjobs.com account at any time to check your application status. If you have any questions about your application's progress, please contact the County of Humboldt Human Resources Personnel Division at 707-476-2349 or personnel@co.humboldt.ca.us.
Will I be informed if I am not selected for an interview / Oral Exam?
- Yes, you will be informed via email if you are not selected for an interview / Oral Exam.
OUR COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION
Research indicates that individuals in protected classes can be less likely to submit a job application. The County of Humboldt is dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace where our employees are free to bring their full selves to work each day in an environment that allows them to reach their full potential. The County Board of Supervisors has made organizational commitments to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the County is working to ensure that these commitments are reflected in all we do. The County recognizes that certain populations (BIPOC, Disabled Persons, Veterans, LGBTQIA+ community members, etc.) face systemic and structural challenges which may inhibit their ability to satisfy every requirement of the position. In recognition of these structural and systemic factors, the Human Resources Department understands that experience can be gained in many ways – oftentimes, outside of formal institutions – and strives to take a holistic approach in assessing an applicant’s qualifications for a position.
If you’re excited about this role but your past work experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we strongly encourage you to apply.
REASONABLE ACCOMMODATIONS
The County of Humboldt is committed to providing equal access and opportunities in its programs, activities, and employment, and does not discriminate on the basis of mental or physical disabilities. The Human Resources Department is located in the Humboldt County Courthouse, which has an accessible entrance on 4th Street. Accessible parking is available adjacent to the 4th Street entrance and on the 4th Street side of the K Street lot. Special testing arrangements may be made to accommodate disabilities or religious convictions. If invited to an examination and you are in need of a reasonable accommodation, please contact Human Resources immediately at (707) 476-2349 so arrangements can be made.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER
The county is an equal opportunity employer. We enthusiastically accept our responsibility to make employment decisions without regard to race, religion or religious creed, color, age, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, marital status, medical condition, mental or physical disability, military service, or any other classification protected by federal, state, or local laws or ordinances.
MEDICAL EXAMINATION
A pre-employment medical examination provided by the County may be required upon offer of employment.
OTHER EXAMINATIONS
Some positions also require psychological evaluation and/or extensive background investigation.
LICENSES
Some classifications require possession of valid professional and/or technical licenses. Some classifications may require the possession of a valid California driver’s license.
PROBATIONARY PERIOD
Persons appointed to regular County positions serve a probationary period. This is normally six (6) months but could be up to one (1) year. All designated safety employees serve a one-year probationary period.
EMPLOYMENT ELIGIBILITY
It is the County’s intention to hire only those workers who are authorized to work in the United States, pursuant to the Immigration Act of 1990. If you are offered employment, you will be required to verify your eligibility to work in the United States. For law enforcement positions you will be required to verify your U.S. citizenship or legalized status.
DISASTER SERVICE WORKERS
All County of Humboldt employees are designated Disaster Service Workers through state and local law (California Government Code Section 3100-3109). Employment with the County requires the affirmation of a loyalty oath to this effect. Employees are required to complete all Disaster Service Worker-related training as assigned, and to return to work as ordered in the event of an emergency.
THE PROVISIONS OF THIS BULLETIN DO NOT CONSTITUTE AN EXPRESS OR IMPLIED CONTRACT. THE COUNTY OF HUMBOLDT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE NECESSARY MODIFICATIONS TO THE EXAMINATION PLAN IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE HUMBOLDT COUNTY MERIT SYSTEM RULES.
