Associate Director

Surbana Jurong Consultants Pte Ltd; Singapore; On-site; SGD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architectural firm in Singapore is seeking an experienced Project Architect with 15 to 20 years of relevant experience to lead complex, large-scale projects. The ideal candidate will have a degree in architecture, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of local building codes. Responsibilities include project planning, design delivery, client coordination, and team mentorship. The company promotes teamwork and a fun workplace, aiming to create sustainable solutions for the future.

Qualifications

• At least 15 to 20 years of experience in managing complex projects.
• Registration with the Board of Architects (BOA), Singapore is preferred.
• Strong understanding of local building codes and planning parameters.

Responsibilities

• Support the Project Director in project cost planning and resource deployment.
• Translate design intent into executable architectural solutions.
• Represent the Project Lead in client and consultant meetings.
• Assist in preparation of fee proposals and contract documents.
• Supervise and mentor project architects and junior team members.

Skills

Project leadership

Team management

Architectural design

Communication skills

Analytical capabilities

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture

Job description

Your Responsibilities

• Project Leadership
  • Support the Project Director in establishing and maintaining project cost plans by monitoring manpower, information flow, equipment use, and overall resource deployment to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
  • Steer and direct the project team to ensure alignment with project goals, schedules, and quality benchmarks.
  • Identity potential risks or unresolved issues early and propose and implement effective solutions.
  • Maintain close and regular communication with the Project Director to report on project progress, design direction, technical and regulatory challenges, and contractual matters.
  • Lead and coordinate the work of assigned teams to ensure timely delivery of milestones and overall project success.
• Design & Technical Delivery
  • Translate design intent into executable architectural solutions.
  • Lead the detail design development phase through to tender documentation, ensuring architectural layouts, detailing, and material selection align with project design intent and client vision.
  • Review and guide team members to deliver and maintain quality and technical rigor.
  • Ensure full compliance with all applicable planning and building guidelines, regulations and codes of practice.
  • Guide and direct the preparation and submission of authority approvals and other relevant applications.
  • Collaborate with consultants to ensure seamless technical integration and resolve coordination issues efficiently.
• Client, Consultant Coordination
  • Represent the Project Lead in client, consultant, and technical coordination meetings, chairing sessions where appropriate.
  • Liaise directly with clients to manage expectations, communicate project progress, and address design or technical issues.
  • Coordinate with external consultants (structural, M&E, C&S, QS) to resolve technical issues and maintain alignment across disciplines.
  • Conduct site inspections to ensure design and technical solutions are properly implemented, and that all works comply with building codes and specifications.
• Project Documentation & Contract Administration
  • Assist the Project Director in the preparation of fee proposals, contract administration documents, and project correspondence.
  • Ensure timely invoicing upon completion of project stages.
  • Oversee the collation, organisation, and coordination of construction documentation, ensuring clarity and adherence to client and office standards.
  • Direct and guide architectural and technical team members on the preparation of construction drawings and packages.
  • Lead the architectural team in producing complete and coordinated tender documentation, reviewing deliverables for quality and compliance.
• Leadership & Mentorship
  • Supervise, mentor, and inspire project architects, coordinators, and junior team members to foster professional growth and maintain high design standards.
  • Encourage a collaborative work culture that supports innovation, accountability, and continuous learning.
  • Guide the architectural team in liaising with suppliers, contractors, and stakeholders to ensure smooth delivery and implementation.
  • Take on additional management support tasks as necessary, drive collaboration between project teams, and perform other project‑related duties to support continuous improvement and project success.

Pre-requisites and Preferred Qualifications

• At least 15 to 20 years of relevant experience, with leadership in delivering complex, large-scale projects in Singapore or the region.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Registration with the Board of Architects (BOA), Singapore is preferred. Has comprehensive knowledge of and extensive experience in the architecture industry.
• Shows a deep understanding of local building codes and planning parameters, especially for complex mixed-development projects.
• Exhibits strong analytical capabilities coupled with effective management skills, including the ability to inspire and guide a creative team.
• Capable of leading project teams and resolving issues quickly and effectively throughout project development.
• A collaborative and strategic thinker, focused on achieving optimal project outcomes.
• Possesses excellent verbal and written communication abilities.
• Demonstrates the ability to manage time efficiently to meet challenging deadlines and client requirements.

Real Impact, Made Together

SAA is a member of the Surbana Jurong (SJ) Group, a diverse and collaborative collective of problem solvers for the built environment, continually reimagining ways to create a smart and sustainable future. As one of SJ’s 10 member companies, SAA is part of a global network of professionals in more than 120 offices in over 40 countries.

Submit Your Application

Please submit your application to our Career Portal at: SAA Architects Careers

At Surbana Jurong, we put talent, hard work, teamwork and a fun workplace together to approach problems and solve them creatively and collaboratively. Join us in making a positive impact on the world!