State architects oversee the construction, renovation, and maintenance of state-owned properties in the US. They select architectural firms, ensure code compliance, and review construction plans. They also develop recommendations for renovations and maintenance and may audit budgets and accounts. The job requires a valid architect license and involves office work and travel.
In the United States, a state architect is a civic official who oversees activities related to the construction, renovation, and maintenance of state-owned properties. In addition to a lead architect, the state typically hires a support team to offer assistance. The operations of this office are separate from those of the office in charge of licensing architects, processing consumer complaints about architects, and handling other matters related to the practice of architecture in the state.
Although the state architect does not design government buildings, this government official plays a role in the bidding process, selecting the architectural firm to do the work, and supervising work on site. State architects need to consider code compliance and work with contractors and architects tasked with constructing or renovating state buildings to ensure they meet current building standards. This includes not just basic building code, but issues that may include accessibility for people with disabilities.
The state architect can review construction plans for state-owned medium and large buildings and can request changes if necessary. This party may also physically inspect buildings, meet with contractors, and audit budgets, accounts, and other documents. Acting as the state’s representative, the state architect works to ensure that state buildings are completed on time, as outlined in the plans, and in accordance with all applicable laws.
State architects can also develop recommendations for renovations and maintenance. When real estate no longer seems useful, the architect can review it and prepare a report with recommendations for final disposal, such as sale or donation. The state’s real estate stock is a matter of concern in this office, as it may be necessary to buy or sell land for building purposes. State architects are also often concerned about waste, which can be an issue on large government building projects, and they want to keep state assets adequate for their needs.
This job typically requires a lot of office work, as well as traveling across the state to view job sites and meeting with architects, contractors, and other parties. Generally, you must have a valid license to work as an architect and meet continuing education requirements to retain that license, if applicable. Assistants to a state architect can include fully qualified architects, as well as other support staff familiar with the industry and state government needs.
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