This job opportunity is available at ANY location in the United States. Ideally, selected candidates will be near a JACOBS U.S. based office, but we intend to hire the "best" candidates.
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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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
Core Competencies & Skills
- 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
Preferred Qualifications
- 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)
Jacobs is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, creed, color, national origin, ancestry, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, medical condition, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression and transgender status, mental disability or physical disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, citizenship, low-income status or any other status or characteristic protected by applicable law. Learn more about your rights under Federal EEO laws and supplemental language.
