Director, Architecture

New York City, NY • Manhattan, NY

359d • Remote

About The Position

The NYC Department of Buildings is responsible for ensuring the safe and lawful use of buildings and properties by enforcing the NYC Construction Codes, Energy Code and Zoning Resolution. We facilitate compliant development with integrity, efficiency and professionalism. We are committed to becoming the premier municipal building organization, dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all New Yorkers and making our City safer. Your team: The Code and Zoning Interpretation Division, headed by the Assistant Commissioner for Code and Zoning Interpretation, consists of two units: The Architecture unit, and the Code and Zoning Interpretation unit (CZI). CZI Division reviews legislation and rules and provides comments on technical issues as well as operational impacts to the Development process; provides training to staff and the public on the technical requirements; and issues interpretations and guidance materials on the requirements. The Division also reviews requests for variations and appeals to denials of code and zoning determinations, as well as answers public challenges to Zoning compliance for approved construction projects.

Requirements

• A valid New York State Registration as an Architect is required.
• Six (6) years of full-time paid experience in architectural work, at least two (2) years of which shall have been as an administrative architect.

Nice To Haves

• Minimum 10 years of architectural experience in large-scale residential, commercial and institutional construction projects preferred.
• Strong background in NYC Construction Codes, NYC Zoning Resolution, and NYS multiple dwelling law is preferred.
• Extensive experience in the requirements of the International Building Code, International Existing Building Code, and the New York City Building Code.
• Extensive knowledge of, and experience with the New York City Council's legislative processes.
• Demonstrated keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, organization, writing and analytical skills.
• Ability to multi-task without sacrificing quality, meet/manage deadlines, and function well in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability and enthusiasm for code related projects and project management.
• Ability to observe, analyze, recommend, and implement courses of action to improve quality, efficiencies and accuracies.
• Ability to manage effectively and motivate project teams and/or committees.
• Ability to be a creative, communicative, and powerful presenter.
• Ability to work effectively and execute tasks independently.

Responsibilities

• Participate and, in collaboration with the Director, Code & Zoning Interpretation, and Director, Engineering, manage the new DOB NOW Determinations and Appeals process that will digitize the currently paper-based determinations and appeals process.
• Manage the upcoming technical and operational changes from Mayoral Priority Programs that will necessitate additional process changes and policy decisions.
• Take ownership of each individual project given and bring the highest level of professionalism in completing the projects.
• Oversee the processing of many CCD-1s and ZRD-1s at the Technical Affairs level and be responsible for implementing processes enhancements.
• Participate in leading role in construction code revisions, as well as associated rules.
• Participate in critical role in the adoption and implementation of the existing building code.
• Represent the Department as technical expert to meet with industry stakeholders, city agencies and/or elected officials regarding code and zoning related issues.
• Perform and manage complex research regarding construction codes, referenced design standards, and related laws and rules.
• Answer questions from the public regarding construction codes, referenced design standards, and related laws and rules.
• Draft Buildings Bulletins that provide the public with interpretations and clarifications on complex issues.
• Coordinate with the Assistant Commissioner of Technical Affairs and Code Development, and Executive Director of Engineering in managing various projects.
• Support and further the Agency's commitment to improving operations and implementation of technology-based solutions.
• Work with the Borough Management to oversee the processing of objection sheets and initial approvals generated by plan examination.
• Attend monthly Borough Commissioners meeting to discuss policies and procedures.
• Respond to incidents during weekends, holidays and disasters to provide coverage for Borough Offices and Emergency Team.
• Create and prepare training materials and conduct regular internal training for borough technical staff.
• Prepare presentation materials for a variety of audiences.

Benefits

• Public Service Loan Forgiveness eligibility.
• Open to qualified persons with a disability who are eligible for the 55-a Program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Industry: Justice, Public Order, and Safety Activities
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees