Duties and responsibilities of the project architect

Project architects manage construction projects from the conceptual design stage to the completion of construction. In this role, a designer leads teams of engineers and contractors as they meet directly with clients to develop and execute large-scale projects on time and within budget. This position balances active architectural activities with a leadership role in both the design and drafting of construction plans, overseeing construction throughout the project life cycle.

Duties and responsibilities of the project architect

Design and preliminary drafting of construction plans

One of the main responsibilities of a designer is to design and write construction plans for residential, commercial and industrial construction projects. Project architects work with drafting software like AutoCAD to design blueprints and then present these plans to clients and construction teams. In this aspect of the role, a designer will typically work with engineers to ensure that design elements, such as structures and building elements, are developed in accordance with local codes and meet customer needs.

Consult customers

Project architects also consult directly with clients to determine a project's needs and client specifications for many design elements. In addition to initial meetings with clients to determine project scope, set budgets and generate contracts, the project architect frequently meets with clients to discuss progress, clarify questions that arise during the construction process, and report on development . . . of the site. A designer can also communicate with clients after the project is completed to make sure it meets the client's needs and expectations.

Supervise construction contractors and crews.

A designer will also make frequent site visits during the construction project to monitor the contractor's progress, answer questions that may arise and ensure that milestones are completed according to the project schedule. The project architect provides expertise and advice throughout the construction process, taking action to avoid delays and making changes to the project or initial plan as needed. The experience gained is particularly useful in this aspect of the position.

Visit and review job sites

Project architects may also be responsible for site planning and development to ensure projects meet safety, environmental and zoning requirements. In some cases, this requires the project architect to have a solid understanding of local and national building regulations and standards. Throughout the project, the project architect will also conduct site visits and reviews to ensure these standards are met and properly implemented at all stages of construction.

Prepare documents and specifications

As part of the development and design process, a project architect also prepares project documents and specifications for both contractors and clients. A successful project architect should be able to translate complex construction documents into accessible and usable specification sheets to provide contractors with vital project information. This may also include the preparation of material specification documents for certain elements of the project and the development and maintenance of a project manual

Budget management and planning

Finally, project architects must manage both schedules and project budgets to ensure construction projects are completed on time and within established budgets. A designer must be highly organized and able to determine which contractors are needed and set project milestones and deadlines. Additionally, a designer may be responsible for identifying material needs and costs and developing cost reduction strategies to ensure profitability.

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