The City of Santa Barbara’s Public Works Department is searching for a Principal Architectto deliver public capital infrastructure projects. Be part of a high performing team that works collaboratively on a variety capital projects that benefit our community. This position will be the City’s technical expert in the field of architecture, supporting capital programs and policies throughout all City Departments including, but not limited to, Airport, Library, Parks and Recreation, Public Safety, and Waterfront. Through leading and mentoring a team of architects and engineers, the position oversees delivery of public projects from conception through construction. Working collaboratively and independently in a dynamic environment, the Principal Architect will serve a vital role in bringing projects to completion.
The Principal Architect will manage all aspects of the work of staff, consultants, and contractors responsible for providing design and construction services for capital projects. The position will oversee and participate in the technical aspects of capital projects including the preparation of plans, specifications, cost and quantity estimates, and bid documents for capital construction projects including providing quality assurance/quality control review and constructability/value engineering review of construction documents. The Principal Architect will negotiate terms and fees for consultant contracts and be responsible for approval of contractor and consultant pay requests. The position requires strong project and program management skills including establishing schedules and methods for providing assigned services, the identification of resource needs, and the effective allocation of resources accordingly.
The Principal Architect works collaboratively with facilities, business, and capital program managers across all City departments to identify, prioritize, and budget for capital project needs. The position recommends and assists in the implementation of capital program goals and objectives. The position will frequently prepare and present items to Council, Boards and Commissions, private and public organizations, outside agencies, and City management staff.
The Principal Architect is expected to provide exemplary customer service to all individuals by demonstrating a willingness to be attentive, understanding, responsive, fair, courteous, respectful, and to actively participate in maintaining a positive customer service environment.
EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING GUIDELINES Any combination of experience and training that would likely provide the required knowledge and abilities is qualifying. A typical way to obtain the knowledge and abilities would be:
Experience: At least six (6) years of increasingly responsible experience in architecture.
Education and/or Training: Equivalent to a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university with major course work in in Architecture, Engineering, or a closely related field.
License, Certificate and/or Other Requirements: Possession of a valid driver's license.
Possession of an appropriate, valid Architect License issued by the California Architects Board.
Possession of, or ability to obtain within eighteen (18) months, a valid Certified Access Specialist (CASp) certificate issued by the California Division of State Architect.
As a City of Santa Barbara employee, the work that you do has a tangible impact on our community. We are about more than the bottom line; our work ensures the health and safety of residents and visitors, protects and preserves our architectural heritage and the natural environment, and enriches lives.
As City employees, we are the stewards of this beautiful place. Our job is to help the elected officials serve everyone in our community and ensure Santa Barbara continues to be a special place for future generations. This is an exciting, and sometimes demanding, responsibility. It is important work that you can be proud to perform.
At the City of Santa Barbara, the best part of our organization is our people. As a City of Santa Barbara employee, you will work in a collaborative environment with other motivated individuals who are passionate about their work. We strive to provide employees with the support they need to thrive and grow while fulfilling our Mission.
The Mission of the Public Works Department is to provide the community with the sustainable foundation to thrive by delivering quality services and public infrastructure through efficient and fiscally responsible practices. Read more about the Public Works Department here: