Architectural Assistant

Roles and responsibilities

• Ensure the contractor/s compliance with the standards and specifications of the contract documents.
• Maintain records of the contractor human and equipment daily resources.
• Undertake all site supervision and inspections when required or instructed by the Resident Engineer (RE) or the Assistant Resident Engineer (ARE).
• Liaise and daily follow up with the contractor. This is to ensure the contractor is managing its resources, health and safety, and equipment needs on the site.
• Be familiar with the project’s contract documents, detailed drawings, specifications, and health and safety measures together with any associated updates.
• Prepare daily report to the RE or ARE. This includes works orders, materials delivery, and daily inspections program.
• Follow up and implement any site instructions made by the RE and ARE.
• Apply and implement all quality controls and quality procedures of the site.
• Prepare any site measurements and surveying checks needed by the RE or ARE for pipes alignments and levels.
• Co-ordinate and co-operate with client project manager during their site inspections in the presence of the RE or ARE.
• Monitor contractor QA/QC activities and maintain relevant records.
• Assist the ARE and RE in the preparation of any correspondences in compliance with the contract documents and site requirements.
• Where site problems are found, work with the RE or ARE to resolve them promptly.
• Monitor the start-up, commissioning and handover of the site works. Including maintaining records of the project milestones.
• Maintain records of materials tests performed and executed works.
• Audit inspections for conformity to contract documents and contractor submitted plans.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements :

• Minimum 10 years of experience within similar projects
• Middle East experience preferred
• Relevant experience in the construction supervision

Preferred Qualifications :

• Technical Degree and/or equivalent

Desired candidate profile

1. Reviewing Architectural Plans and Specifications

• Plan Review: Examining architectural blueprints, designs, and specifications to ensure that they comply with building codes, zoning regulations, safety standards, and client requirements.
• Compliance Check: Ensuring that all work follows the approved architectural design and complies with local building codes, accessibility standards, and safety regulations.
• Coordination with Architects and Engineers: Working closely with architects, engineers, and other stakeholders to clarify design intent and resolve any discrepancies between the drawings and actual construction.

2. Site Inspections and Monitoring

• On-Site Inspections: Visiting construction sites regularly to inspect the progress of work and verify that it adheres to architectural plans and specifications.
• Quality Control: Checking the quality of construction materials, finishes, and workmanship. This includes verifying that the materials used are consistent with those specified in the project plans.
• Structural and Aesthetic Evaluation: Ensuring that the construction matches the intended aesthetic design while also being structurally sound and safe.
• Documentation of Findings: Documenting inspection findings, including any discrepancies or issues observed during site visits, and reporting these to the relevant parties (project managers, architects, contractors).

3. Ensuring Code and Safety Compliance

• Building Code Compliance: Ensuring that all aspects of the construction, including structural components, electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC, comply with local, state, and national building codes.
• Health and Safety Regulations: Monitoring that the construction process complies with safety regulations, including OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) guidelines, to prevent workplace accidents and ensure the safety of construction workers and future building occupants.
• Accessibility Standards: Ensuring that the building meets accessibility requirements, such as those set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), to provide equitable access for all individuals.

4. Managing Non-Compliance Issues

• Identifying Violations: Identifying any non-compliance with design plans, codes, or regulations, and working with contractors and architects to address the issues.
• Issuing Reports: Preparing detailed inspection reports, including findings, issues, and corrective actions required, which are submitted to the project stakeholders.
• Change Order Management: Verifying whether changes to the design or construction process (change orders) are in compliance with regulations and ensuring that any changes are properly documented.

5. Project Coordination and Communication

• Liaison Role: Acting as a liaison between contractors, architects, engineers, and local authorities to ensure smooth communication and project coordination.
• Client and Stakeholder Communication: Providing updates to clients, project managers, and other stakeholders on the progress of inspections and compliance status, and addressing any concerns they may have.
• Inspection Schedules: Coordinating and scheduling inspections to ensure that all necessary stages of construction are reviewed at the appropriate times.

6. Final Inspections and Occupancy Approval

• Final Walkthrough: Conducting a final inspection before the building is occupied or handed over to ensure that everything is completed according to the approved plans and specifications.
• Certificate of Occupancy: If applicable, assisting in the process of obtaining the certificate of occupancy (CO) by ensuring all necessary compliance checks and inspections have been completed.