Code Specialist (Registered Architect) (Data Centers)

Jacobs; Lexington (KY); Hybrid; USD 132,900 - 182,700; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) plan

Unlimited paid time off

Stock purchase at a discount

Job summary

Jacobs is looking for a Code Specialist in Lexington, Kentucky, to ensure compliance with building codes and regulatory standards for Data Center projects. This senior-level position requires a professional degree in Architecture and an active Registered Architect license, along with at least 15 years of experience. The role includes responsibilities such as advising project teams, providing compliance strategies, and mentoring internal teams. Jacobs offers a hybrid work environment along with a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and a 401(k) plan.

Qualifications

• 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 types.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary authority on building codes and zoning regulations.
• Provide code analysis and compliance strategies during project planning.
• Advise project teams on code-related design decisions.

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

Education

Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch)

Active Registered Architect (RA) license in U.S. jurisdiction

Job description

At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.

Your impact

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.

Here’s what you’ll need

• 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 projectsBackground in peer reviews, third‑party plan reviews, or authority‑side code analysis
• LEED, WELL, or other sustainability credentials (a plus, not required)

Employees have access to medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance, a 401(k) plan, and the ability to purchase company stock at a discount. Eligible employees may also enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan. Jacobs has an unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full‑time salaried/exempt employees, seven paid holidays, and caregiver leave. Certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

The base salary range for this position is $132,900.00 to $182,700.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered for employment.

Job posted on April 16, 2026. This position will be open for at least 3 days.

We value collaboration and believe that in‑person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.

Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.