Lead Architect - Sustainable & Innovative Design

Placements24; Richards Bay; Remote; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Generous annual leave

Professional development and training

Conference access

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Architect for a fully remote role to guide design from concept to completion on sustainable projects.

You will mentor design teams, coordinate with consultants, and ensure quality while leveraging digital tools.

The ideal candidate has 10–12 years post-graduate experience, professional registration, and a strong track record of high-performance buildings.

Qualifications

• Professional registration as an Architect (e.g., PrArch) with the relevant architectural council.
• 10–12 years of post-graduate experience with leadership in innovative and sustainable design projects.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software (Revit, Rhino, Grasshopper, AutoCAD) and visualization tools.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable design principles and green building certifications (LEED, BREEAM, Green Star).
• Proven ability to lead and inspire design teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client relationship management skills.
• Experience delivering complex, high-performance buildings.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple projects remotely.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and materials.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for innovative and sustainable projects.
• Develop compelling design concepts and articulate the design vision to clients and stakeholders.
• Mentor and manage design teams, fostering creativity and ensuring design quality.
• Oversee the technical development of designs, ensuring compliance with codes and sustainability goals.
• Collaborate with consultants to integrate sustainable systems and technologies.
• Conduct design reviews, presentations, and workshops using advanced digital tools.
• Stay at the forefront of sustainable design practices, materials, and technologies.
• Manage project timelines and budgets in collaboration with project managers.
• Ensure design intent is maintained through construction documentation and administration.
• Actively contribute to the firm's thought leadership in sustainable and innovative architecture.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Client relations

Project management

Remote work

Tools

Revit

Rhino

Grasshopper

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning architectural firm with a pioneering approach to sustainable and innovative design, is looking for a dynamic Lead Architect for a fully remote position. This is a unique opportunity to shape cutting-edge projects and lead design vision from concept to completion. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional creative talent, a deep commitment to environmental design principles, and proven leadership skills. You will be responsible for guiding design teams, ensuring design excellence, and fostering a culture of innovation. This role is perfect for a seasoned architect who thrives in a remote setting, values collaboration through digital platforms, and seeks to make a significant impact on the built environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for innovative and sustainable projects.
• Develop compelling design concepts and articulate the design vision to clients and stakeholders.
• Mentor and manage design teams, fostering creativity and ensuring design quality.
• Oversee the technical development of designs, ensuring compliance with relevant codes and sustainability goals.
• Collaborate with consultants to integrate sustainable systems and technologies effectively.
• Conduct design reviews, presentations, and workshops using advanced digital tools.
• Stay at the forefront of sustainable design practices, materials, and technologies.
• Manage project timelines and budgets in collaboration with project managers.
• Ensure design intent is maintained through construction documentation and administration.
• Actively contribute to the firm's thought leadership in sustainable and innovative architecture.

Requirements

• Professional registration as an Architect (e.g., PrArch) with the relevant architectural council.
• A minimum of 10-12 years of post-graduate experience, with a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership in innovative and sustainable design projects.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, Rhino, Grasshopper, AutoCAD) and visualization tools.
• In-depth knowledge of sustainable design principles, green building certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM, Green Star), and performance analysis tools.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire design teams.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and client relationship management skills.
• Demonstrated experience in delivering complex, high-performance buildings.
• Ability to work autonomously and manage multiple projects effectively in a remote work environment.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and materials.

Benefits

This fully remote position offers a highly competitive salary and the ultimate flexibility to work from anywhere. Our client provides comprehensive health benefits, generous annual leave, and significant opportunities for professional development, including access to conferences and specialized training. You will be part of an internationally recognized practice, working on inspiring and impactful projects that push the boundaries of sustainable design. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning, with strong support for remote employees to achieve work-life balance and career advancement.