Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD)

JOIN OUR TEAM! Our team is redefining building design and engineering. AE Works is an award-winning firm ranked among the top U.S. A/E firms by Architectural Record and ENR East. We are recognized for our commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional results. Our mission is straightforward: to make building projects a better value. We thrive on solving complex challenges and creating solutions that enhance the built environment, enabling our clients to succeed in their most important endeavors.

About the role

AE Works is seeking a self-motivated and team-oriented RCDD Consultant to lead the planning and design of large-scale, enterprise-level cabling infrastructure supporting Information & Communications Technology (ICT) systems including:

• Wired and wireless data/voice
• Local Area Networks (LAN)
• Wide Area Networks (WAN)
• Nurse call systems
• Datacenters
• Overhead paging

This role involves working closely with multidisciplinary teams to design integrated, high-performance ICT infrastructure solutions that meet the operational needs of our clients. You’ll lead system audits, develop design documentation, and provide guidance throughout all project phases. The ideal candidate will possess strong technical expertise, leadership skills, and the ability to deliver technically compliant work with minimal oversight.

Location: Arlington, VA or Pittsburgh, PA with travel to client and project sites.

Responsibilities

• Conduct ICT infrastructure audits and site assessments. Document results, recommended solutions, and transition requirements.
• Prepare site-specific Division 27 design deliverables for SD, DD, and CD phase submissions, including:
  • Plans, elevations, and details
  • One-line and riser diagrams
  • System schedules and device legends
  • Basis of Design (BOD) narratives
  • Technical specifications
• Support rough order of magnitude construction estimates (ROM).
• Lead technical discussions and coordinate design requirements with project managers, architects, engineers, clients, and contractors.
• Support Construction Administration services:
  • RFI responses and technical clarifications
  • Review contractor shop drawings and product submittals for compliance with design intent
  • Conduct site observations to verify installation quality and system conformance
  • Review record documentation and closeout deliverables
• Promote continuous improvement by mentoring junior staff and contributing to design guides and templates, incorporating lessons learned.
• Stay current with emerging technologies, regulations, and industry trends.

Requirements

What’s Required:

• 5+ years of experience designing and specifying low voltage systems within an A&E environment.
• Proficiency with AutoCad, Revit BIM modeling, Bluebeam, and Microsoft Office (Word and Excel).
• Working knowledge of security design standards and best practices (BICSI, NFPA, TIA, etc.)
• Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) certification.

Qualifications

What Puts You Ahead:

• Experience designing for healthcare, higher education, and government facilities.
• Experience designing other special systems: Audio/Visual (AV), Electronic Security, fire alarm, etc.
• Experience designing outside cable plant
• Associate’s degree in Electronics Technology, Telecommunications, or related field a plus.

Benefits

At AE Works, we believe in supporting each person in their professional and personal journey. We offer:

• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, 401k)
• Generous paid time off, including a company-wide break from Christmas through New Year’s Day
• Flexible hybrid schedule
• Resources that promote mental health, financial wellness, and professional growth through training, education, and licensure support