Construction Documentation

Term from Architecture industry explained for recruiters

Construction Documentation refers to the complete set of detailed drawings, specifications, and written instructions that architects and designers create to guide builders in constructing a building. Think of it as a comprehensive instruction manual for constructing a building, similar to how furniture comes with assembly instructions, but much more detailed. These documents ensure that everyone involved in the construction process understands exactly what needs to be built, how it should be built, and what materials should be used. Other common names for this include "construction drawings," "working drawings," or "construction specs."

Examples in Resumes

Created complete Construction Documentation sets for three major commercial projects

Managed and reviewed Construction Documentation and Construction Drawings for residential developments

Led team in preparing detailed Construction Documentation and Working Drawings for hospital renovation

Typical job title: "Architectural Documentation Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Architectural Designer Project Architect Construction Document Specialist CAD Designer Documentation Coordinator Technical Architect Construction Documentation Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you manage changes in Construction Documentation during an ongoing project?

Expected Answer: Should explain their process for tracking changes, communicating updates to team members and contractors, and ensuring all parties are working from the most current documents. Should mention experience with document control systems and change order procedures.

Q: How do you ensure quality control in Construction Documentation?

Expected Answer: Should discuss review processes, coordination between different document sets (architectural, structural, mechanical), and methods for catching errors before documents go to construction.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the essential components of a complete Construction Documentation package?

Expected Answer: Should list main elements like floor plans, elevations, sections, details, specifications, and explain how they work together to provide complete building instructions.

Q: How do you coordinate Construction Documentation with different consultants?

Expected Answer: Should explain experience working with engineering consultants, understanding how to integrate their drawings and specifications into the main document set.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What software do you use for preparing Construction Documentation?

Expected Answer: Should be familiar with common architectural software like AutoCAD, Revit, or similar tools, and understand basic drawing standards and conventions.

Q: Explain the difference between construction drawings and specifications.

Expected Answer: Should understand that drawings show the visual aspects while specifications describe materials and quality standards in writing.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic drafting and drawing skills
  • Understanding of building components
  • Knowledge of architectural software
  • Basic document organization

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Detailed drawing preparation
  • Coordination with consultants
  • Building code compliance
  • Specification writing

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complete document set management
  • Quality control oversight
  • Team coordination
  • Complex project documentation

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of current building codes and standards
  • Unfamiliarity with common architectural software
  • Poor attention to detail in previous work
  • Lack of experience with document coordination