Project Architect - Dubai, United Arab Emirates - Skidmore, Owings & Merrill

Description

At SOM, we are a collective committed to shaping a better future for our clients, communities and planet.

We aspire to create the most sustainable, impactful work through creative, interdisciplinary teams with all the resources and diversity of a global firm.

We value those who are passionate about excellence, innovation, integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. Together we can achieve great things.

Success at SOM Means

• Ideas: We believe in a meritocracy of ideas. We look to everyone to actively contribute to the discourse in the firm.
• Knowledge: We believe that expertise is the result of lifelong learning. We are not expected to know everything, but rather to passionately pursue answers, develop new skills and deepen our knowledge.
• Product: We strive for excellence in the concept, quality, and delivery of our work.
• Individual: We value individuals who bring the highest standards of professionalism and personal integrity in the way they work. Each person can develop and contribute their wealth of attributes, skills and knowledge to support the overall health of the firm.
• Team: We value the power of interdisciplinary integration. A positive team culture in which everyone collaborates openly towards common goals is essential.
• Firm: We have a history of making transformative contributions to the profession and our communities. We are constantly innovating and attempting to bring new approaches, solutions and processes to our work.

Position Summary

The Project Architect oversees the development of the design of a project along with the production of construction documentation within the established scope of work, program, and budget objectives.

The Project Architect has a project-focused view; and together with the Senior Designer, Technical Designer, and/or Project Manager (where applicable), is the co-leader of the project.

Depending on the scale or complexity of the project, the Project Architect may take on some Project Management responsibilities, including acting as the primary point of contact for the owner/client, and the full project team, inclusive of consultants.

Position Responsibilities

• Oversees the Architectural Project Team in all phases to achieve design, technical, and financial success. Exhibits initiative, process innovation, problem solving, and decision quality with a high attention to precision and accuracy at a project level.
• Provides significant input on the design direction and innovation(s) and furthers the development of architectural projects that are consistent with the scope of work and goals of the firm. Integrates criteria and input from all disciplines into design solutions.
• Establishes, communicates, and maintains standards of quality for documentation products for the full internal and external team. Supports the Technical Architect in the implementation of the Quality Management System for assigned projects.
• Demonstrates an advanced understanding of building materials, systems, specifications, codes, details and construction techniques. Is able to enrich design concepts through technical strategies and effectively uses appropriate tools to design and document at all project phases.
• Oversees consultants and knowledge resources to ensure that deliverables are coordinated, integrated, and support the performance goals of the project.
• Oversees and collaborates with the SOM High Performance Design Group in tracking energy, water, and carbon use intensities on a project and provides documentation for AIA 2030 reporting.
• Oversees and/or leads the production resources and schedules of documentation and presentations. When appropriate, produces presentation and contract deliverables such as diagrams, 3D models, drawings, specifications, renderings, physical models, and animations. Documentation should be consistent with firm standards for the publication and presentation of work.
• Fosters lasting and positive relationships with clients, the design community, and important government agencies (i.e. planning departments, commissions, and advocacy groups).
• Assists the Project Manager in establishing project budgets, schedules, and work plans.
• Oversees time and workload of team to meet project task deadlines and commitments, with limited interaction and direction from Partners and Principals while guiding and teaching less experienced staff. Oversees and guides the project team in identifying the appropriate followup process to address action items during all project phases.
• Oversees the implementation of the computer management program for the project and, when required, identifies the Digital Design Coordinator for the project. Promotes digital innovation.
• Oversees and/or leads the team's construction phase services scope.
• Attends and presents in owner/architect design meetings and owner/architect/contractor meetings. Reviews and approves meeting minutes.
• Attends and facilitates weekly internal project team meetings. Together with Project