Architect: Facilities Accessibility Specialist
Full-time, in-person or remote

Position description

Practice architecture from a place of supporting full inclusivity and equity for persons with disabilities—as well as for others for whom physical barriers keep them from leading a full life. At Studio Pacifica, our specialists consult with architectural design teams, developers, civic planners, educators, corporations and others in the greater community to help all meet (or exceed) American with Disabilities (ADA) requirements. 

This position is focused on in-house document review services and on-site accessibility observation for projects under construction. Your goal: to ensure compliance with ADA standards, Fair Housing Act (FHA) guidelines and state and local accessibility code requirements. Ideal candidates will be detail-oriented, collaborative team players willing to advocate for “anything but institutional” inclusive designs for clients across the country. 

Yes, we’re looking to make the world a better place through architecture. 

Firm attributes

At Studio Pacifica, we believe everyone deserves to live their best, barrier-free life. 

Our specialized practice is driven by a belief in universal design—a way of thinking about design that translates to built environments that work for people of all ages and abilities. Studio Pacifica’s six-person staff has architectural expertise as well as (in several cases) first-hand experience dealing with a world of physical barriers.

Founded in 1993, today our nationally recognized accessibility firm consults with some of the most respected architectural design firms (and their notable clients) in the areas of civic, commercial, education, hospitality, medical and multi-family residential. By working collaboratively with Studio Pacifica, many clients have experienced how inclusive design can enhance their core concept.

Studio Pacifica is located along the boat sheds of Lake Union. Yes, it’s a very Seattle space. 

Job responsibilities:  these are illustrative in nature and may expand as experience increases

• Review construction documents (including product submittals) generated by others or compliance with a specific list of codes that address accessibility…
• Report your observations through a standardized report format
• Provide technical assistance to clients during design and construction phases of a project
• Visit projects under construction to observe for a defined list of barriers…
• Report your observations through a standardized report format
• Audit existing buildings to confirm compliance with accessibility requirements
• Track and organize reporting for various projects to ensure timeliness of reviews
• Participate in project administration tasks 
• This position reports directly to Karen Braitmayer, FAIA, Principal 

Qualifications

Requires a minimum of five-years of architectural or construction management (or related experience) as well as a bachelor’s degree in engineering, architecture (or related field) and supervisory ability (or a combination of education and training and/or experience that provides an equivalent background required to perform the work).  

Desired qualifications  

• Ability to read construction documents in all phases of design and…
• Read, interpret and apply code language
• Expertise and/or knowledge with ADA, FHA and state accessibility codes (highly desired)
• Accreditation or certification demonstrating experience with principals of accessible design such as the ICC Accessibility Plans Examiner certification, CASI or RAS (highly desired)
• Fluency with Office Suite, Bluebeam and other document review software
• Experience working directly with clients (desired)
• Experience working directly on-site with construction teams (desired)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with emphasis on positive teamwork, cheerfulness, maturity and integrity

Additional information

Work will require occasional travel in the Puget Sound region or farther afield. All travel expenses will be compensated and standard workday pay provided. 

Studio Pacifica offers continuing education, 75% paid health insurance premiums,
100% reimbursement for professional memberships and competitive compensation.

Send resume (and a writing sample) to hi@studiopacificaseattle.com