AIA Documents

Term from Contracting industry explained for recruiters

AIA Documents are standardized construction contract forms and documents created by the American Institute of Architects. Think of them as pre-written templates that construction professionals use to make agreements between different parties in building projects. These documents are like the industry's gold standard - they're trusted formats for contracts between building owners, contractors, and architects. They help everyone avoid misunderstandings by using consistent language and terms that have been refined over many years. It's similar to how rental agreements usually follow a standard format, but for construction projects.

Examples in Resumes

Managed project documentation using AIA Documents and AIA Contract Documents

Processed and reviewed AIA Documents for 20+ commercial construction projects

Coordinated with architects and contractors using AIA Document standards

Typical job title: "Contract Administrators"

Also try searching for:

Construction Contract Administrator Project Coordinator Construction Document Specialist Project Administrator Construction Contract Manager Document Control Specialist Construction Project Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a dispute between a contractor and owner regarding AIA document interpretations?

Expected Answer: Should discuss experience with conflict resolution, knowledge of contract terms, and ability to facilitate communication between parties while ensuring proper documentation and compliance with AIA standards.

Q: What process would you use to manage changes to an existing AIA contract?

Expected Answer: Should explain change order procedures, proper documentation methods, and how to ensure all parties review and approve modifications while maintaining project timeline and budget.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key differences between AIA Document A101 and A102?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that A101 is for fixed-price contracts while A102 is for cost-plus contracts, and understand when each is most appropriate to use.

Q: How do you ensure proper processing of contractor payment applications?

Expected Answer: Should discuss reviewing documentation, verifying work completion, checking for proper signatures, and understanding payment schedules according to AIA standards.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the most common AIA document types you might encounter?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with basic contract types like owner-contractor agreements, owner-architect agreements, and contractor-subcontractor agreements.

Q: How do you organize and maintain AIA document files?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic file organization systems, tracking methods, and understanding of which documents need to be kept together.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of AIA document types
  • File organization and tracking
  • Processing simple change orders
  • Basic contract administration

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Managing multiple project contracts
  • Processing complex change orders
  • Payment application review
  • Contract modification coordination

Senior (5+ years)

  • Contract dispute resolution
  • Advanced document interpretation
  • Team training and supervision
  • Project risk management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic AIA document types
  • Unfamiliarity with construction industry terms
  • Poor attention to detail in document processing
  • Lack of experience with contract administration