Code Specialist (Registered Architect) (Data Centers)

Jacobs Engineering Group Inc.
Knoxville, United States of America
yesterday

Role details

Contract type
Permanent contract
Employment type
Full-time (> 32 hours)
Working hours
Regular working hours
Languages
English

Job location

Knoxville, United States of America

Tech stack

Static Program Analysis
Data Centers
Code Comments

Job description

The Code Specialist is a senior-level Registered Architect with deep expertise in building codes and regulatory compliance. This role serves as the Subject Matter Expert on building codes, zoning ordinances, life safety requirements, and regulatory standards for Data Center projects. The Code Specialist ensures all projects comply with applicable local, state, and national codes while supporting risk mitigation, quality assurance, and project efficiency., * Serve as the primary authority on building codes, zoning regulations, and life safety requirements across all Data Center projects

  • Interpret and apply local, state, and national building codes (e.g., IBC, IFC, ADA, NFPA, local amendments)
  • Provide code analysis and compliance strategies during project planning, design development, and construction
  • Review architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents for code compliance
  • Provide Quality Assurance and Quality Control reviews on Code Summary and Life Safety plans
  • Advise project teams on code-related design decisions, alternative methods, and variances
  • Coordinate with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), building officials, and plan reviewers
  • Support permitting and approvals, including responding to code comments and revisions
  • Identify potential compliance risks and proactively recommend solutions
  • Stay current on code updates and regulatory changes relevant to the Data Center market
  • Mentor and educate internal teams on code requirements and compliance standards
  • Support due diligence and technical reviews on complex or high-risk projects

Requirements

  • Expert-level building code knowledge
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Ability to translate complex code requirements into practical design guidance
  • Detail-oriented with a strong quality mindset
  • Collaborative mindset with confidence to influence senior stakeholders

Why This Role Matters

The Code Specialist plays a critical role in safeguarding project compliance, minimizing regulatory risk, and enabling successful project delivery. This position serves as a trusted advisor to design, construction, and leadership teams.

  • Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)
  • Active Registered Architect (RA) license in at least one U.S. jurisdiction
  • Minimum of 15 years of professional architectural experience
  • Extensive, hands-on expertise in building codes and regulatory compliance
  • Proven experience interpreting and applying building codes across multiple project and construction types
  • Strong understanding of life safety, accessibility, zoning, and fire code requirements
  • Demonstrated ability to interact effectively with building officials and regulatory agencies, * Multi-state architectural licensure
  • Experience supporting complex, large-scale, or multi-jurisdictional projects
  • Background in peer reviews, third-party plan reviews, or authority-side code analysis
  • LEED, WELL, or other sustainability credentials (a plus, not required)

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