Architecture and Building Code Expert

Opportunity Overview

Handshake is looking for experienced architects and building code professionals to support AI research through flexible, part-time contract work. This is not a traditional job. You’ll work from real building project materials, including drawings, specifications, and permit records, to build expert-level review tasks that test how well AI models handle professional architecture and plan review workflows. The Handshake AI program runs year-round, with project opportunities opening periodically across different areas of expertise.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity you can take on alongside your current role.

What You’ll Do

• Work from real building project drawings, specifications, and permit records to create expert review tasks, each focused on one professional workflow, such as zoning, egress, accessibility, or drawing-set quality control
• Write the prompt for each task and review AI model attempts to confirm where they fall short
• Define the critical components of a correct answer, so each task can be evaluated accurately
• Provide clear, structured written feedback to help improve AI model performance
• Work remotely and complete tasks at your own pace, with no set schedule or minimum hour requirement

Qualifications

• Degree: Completed Bachelor’s degree or higher in Architecture or a closely related field (Master’s degree preferred)
• Professional experience: At least 5 years of professional experience in the United States, with architecture or plan review experience, in a role such as: Licensed or practicing architect
• Plans examiner, building code reviewer, or building official
• Code consultant
• Accessibility (ADA) or fire and life safety reviewer
• US code expertise: Working knowledge of US building, accessibility, energy, and fire codes, applied in real projects
• Construction documents: Able to read full construction document sets, including architectural, structural, and MEP sheets, and cross-check them against each other

Additional qualifications (not required, but strengthen your application)

• Professional licensure as a registered architect (RA), or certifications such as ICC certifications (e.g., Certified Building Official, Plans Examiner) or a CASp
• Experience with a range of project types, such as commercial, institutional, multifamily, healthcare, or mixed-use, or with jurisdictions in multiple states
• Experience with zoning review, egress and life safety analysis, accessibility compliance, or drawing-set quality control

Required for all applicants

• Must be based in the United States and have US work authorization
• Experience limited to US codes and US practice
• Strong written communication and attention to detail
• Ability to explain complex code and design concepts clearly
• Ability to work independently in a remote, asynchronous environment