Lead In-House Architect – Design & Compliance (Lahore)

True North; Lahore; On-site; PKR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Job description

True North is an ISO-certified Project Management and Facility Management company delivering integrated solutions across commercial, retail, residential, and institutional projects in Pakistan. Our certifications - ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environment), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety) - reflect the discipline and accountability we bring to every engagement.

About the Role

As our project pipeline grows, we are adding an in-house Architect to lead design across architectural, interior, and landscape scopes. Based in Lahore and reporting to the Head of Projects, you will own design delivery from brief to handover - producing buildable, code-compliant packages, coordinating with consultants and contractors, and staying engaged on site to protect design intent through to completion.

Key Responsibilities

Design Development

• Produce concept designs, schematic drawings, design development packages, and tender and construction documentation across architectural, interior, and landscape scopes.
• Prepare 2D drawings, 3D models, presentation visuals, material boards, and finish schedules.
• Maintain a complete drawing register in line with ISO 9001 documentation standards.

BOQ & Specifications

• Develop bills of quantity, technical specifications, and finishes schedules in coordination with QS and procurement teams.
• Ensure all design packages are scoped accurately for cost and buildability.

Coordination

• Liaise with structural, MEP, and FM consultants to resolve interface issues, RFIs, and design clashes.
• Coordinate with PM teams on project sequencing, programme, and constructability reviews.
• Prepare submission drawings and manage approvals with LDA, CDA, SBCA, Cantonment Boards, and other relevant authorities.
• Ensure full compliance with local building bye-laws, fire and life-safety codes, and accessibility standards.

Client Engagement

• Lead design presentations, manage client feedback cycles, and document all design decisions and change orders formally.

Site Supervision

• Conduct regular site visits, issue site observation reports, review samples and mock-ups, and resolve contractor queries to protect design intent on the ground.

Quality & Safety

• Work within True North's ISO 9001, 14001, and 45001 frameworks.
• Champion sustainable material choices and safe site practices across all projects.

About You

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture (B.Arch) from an HEC-recognised institution.
• Active PCATP (Pakistan Council of Architects & Town Planners) registration.
• 4–7 years of post-qualification experience across architectural, interior, and landscape or exterior design.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign).
• Strong understanding of Pakistan's building codes, approval processes, and construction practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communication in English and Urdu.
• Valid driving licence and willingness to travel to project sites across Pakistan.
• Master's degree, rendering skills in Lumion, V-Ray, or Enscape, and experience on fit-out, retail, hospitality, or institutional projects are a distinct advantage.
• Design sensibility
• Technical rigor
• Code & compliance awareness
• Strong coordination
• Site judgment
• Client-first communication

What we Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and portfolio.
• Exposure to a diverse range of project types across commercial, retail, residential, and institutional sectors.
• The opportunity to build and shape an in-house design function within a growing, ISO-certified PM & FM organisation.
• Professional development support, including training and industry accreditation.
• A collaborative, standards-driven environment where design quality and delivery discipline are equally valued.

Interested candidates are invited to send a current CV and portfolio (PDF, under 15 MB) to [e-mail] with the subject line "Architect - [Your Name]".

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a portfolio review followed by an interview with the projects leadership team.

True North is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from qualified candidates regardless of gender, religion, or background.