Interior Architectural Designer

Organizational Setting

The Infrastructure Services (CSLI) within the Logistics Services Division (CSL) is responsible for the maintenance of the headquarters premises and for providing services to FAO employees. CSLI assists FAO Decentralized Offices in facilities maintenance, technical projects, infrastructure activities and technically innovative systems to reduce their carbon footprint. CSLI also coordinates the special safety projects funded by the Government of Italy, which involves upgrading the headquarters buildings to the current safety norms. In addition, it drives the implementation of Corporate Environmental Responsibility Strategy within headquarters and Decentralized Offices.

The post is located in the Corporate Logistics and Operational Support Team of the Infrastructure Services (CSLI) within the Logistics Services Division (CSL) at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy.

Main Purpose

The Interior Architectural Designer coordinates and oversees the design of architectural solutions for headquarters and field buildings applying UN security, safety and sustainable standards.
 

Supervision Received/Exercised

The Interior Architectural Designer reports to the Facilities Management Officer in charge of the civil works within FAO headquarters; according to the business needs, she/he might cooperate with other Facilities Management Officers operating in other sectors (technical installations, Field Offices, Corporate Environmental Responsibility, or others). Work is performed autonomously, showing a high degree of initiative and independent judgment. Supervision received is focused on facilitating service delivery. The incumbent provides guidance and training to other staff and/or affiliate workforce.
 

Working Relationships

The incumbent maintains a wide range of contacts with managers and staff throughout the Organization. The incumbent collaborates closely with internal clients and outside contractors, ensuring the quality and timeliness of the services.

Key Functions/Results

•    Prepare a concept and detailed architectural drawings considering structural/systems constraints; prepare technical specifications, cost estimates and presentations related to internal refurbishment as well as small-scale infrastructure projects.
•    Design architectural solutions for headquarters and field buildings applying UN security, safety and sustainable standards.
•    Carry out surveys of structural, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC), plumbing and installation systems for headquarters and field buildings and prepare technical drawings.
•    In collaboration with the Facilities Management Officer in charge of space management, develop space planning and office space design proposals, focusing on innovation, functionality, ease of maintenance, value for money, ergonomics and sustainability.
•    Design specific building safety and upgrading projects according to local building codes.
•    Update headquarters and field architectural plans as well as technical installations in the Revit database model.
•    Ensure adherence to the FAO drawing and documental standards for architectural and engineering documents.
•    Support project management activities contributing to the coordination and oversight of construction and alteration works to ensure that the quality of contractors' services is in accordance with set terms and conditions, codes and standards as well as health and safety rules and regulations.
•    Liaise with projects stakeholders to reach mutually satisfactory approaches to problems.
•    Update Supervisor/Managers periodically on projects status.
•    Apply commonly used architectural standards, codes and practices for projects related to the design and implementation of refurbishment or new construction projects.
•    Carry out site visits, technical assessments and prototype inspections.
•    Review project proposals to assess technical feasibility and resources estimation.
•    Prepare technical specifications, construction drawings (when needed), bills of quantity and cost estimates for bidding packages.
•    Assist the Supervisor in preparing draft proposals for construction and alteration work including preparation of construction drawings, technical specifications, bills of quantity and cost estimates.
•    Participate in technical review of submitted offers; study drawings and sketches for review and discussion to determine extent of work required; present alternative solutions to problems as needed.
•    Perform other related duties as required.

Impact of Work

The incumbent plays a lead role in the coordination of design architectural support services FAO. The incumbent's work has a direct impact on the smooth and efficient work as well as the reputation of the work unit.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

Education: Secondary school education. A technical/vocational certificate in construction/architecture/engineering or related area.
Experience: Five years of experience in facility maintenance, or design and construction of complex projects.
Languages: Working knowledge (proficient - level C) of English and limited knowledge (intermediate - level B) of one of the other FAO official languages (French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese or Russian).
IT Skills: Very good knowledge of the MS Office applications, Internet and office technology equipment. Full proficiency with computer aided design software (CAD) and a minimum of three (3) years of experience with BIM software (Revit or similar).

Competencies

•    Results Focus
•    Team Work
•    Communication
•    Building effective relationships
•    Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Technical Skills

•    Demonstrated competency in modern building techniques applied to office buildings.
•    Capacity to deliver cost estimates and time plans for renovation or new construction projects.
•    Experience in the integration of energy-saving and environmental-friendly solutions in office building renovation projects.
•    Knowledge of European and Italian building codes for fire safety, workplace safety and furniture ergonomics.
•    Experience in space planning is desirable.
•    Demonstrated skills in the use of graphic, 3D rendering and presentation software. 

Desirable Qualifications and Skills
 
•    Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite.
•    Previous experience in projects related to office buildings. 
•    Working knowledge (proficient - level C) of Italian.