Lead Sustainable Buildings Architect

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work

Professional development

Generous annual leave

Cutting-edge projects

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Lead Sustainable Buildings Architect to spearhead environmentally conscious design in a remote practice from Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape. You will guide teams, advance green building strategies, and ensure high environmental performance across diverse typologies.

Join a globally collaborating, remote-first firm, driving LCAs, energy simulations, and material research while mentoring junior staff and engaging with external stakeholders to push the boundaries

Qualifications

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP.
• Master’s degree or equivalent in Architecture, Sustainable Design, or related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of architectural experience with a strong focus on sustainable design.
• Proven experience leading sustainability initiatives on complex building projects.
• In-depth knowledge of green building rating systems (Green Star SA, LEED, BREEAM).
• Proficiency in energy modeling software (eQUEST, EnergyPlus) and LCA tools.
• Familiarity with passive design strategies and renewable energy systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• Accreditation as a Green Star SA Accredited Professional (or similar) is desirable.
• Experience with low environmental impact material selection.

Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of sustainable design principles into all phases of the architectural process.
• Develop and implement strategies for achieving high-performance green building certifications.
• Conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs) and energy modeling simulations.
• Research and recommend innovative sustainable materials, technologies, and systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize building performance for energy efficiency, water conservation, and occupant well-being.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on sustainable design to project teams and clients.
• Develop and present sustainability reports, strategies, and design solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in sustainable building science and policy.
• Mentor junior architects and designers in sustainable design practices.
• Engage with external consultants, researchers, and regulatory bodies on sustainability matters.
• Promote a culture of sustainability within the firm and externally.
• Ensure compliance with relevant environmental regulations and standards.

Skills

Architectural leadership

Sustainable design

Energy modeling

LCA tools

Education

Master's degree in Architecture / Sustainable Design

Tools

eQUEST

EnergyPlus

Green Star SA tools

Job description

About the Role Our client is seeking an visionary Lead Sustainable Buildings Architect to spearhead their commitment to environmentally conscious design within their fully remote practice. This role is central to developing and implementing strategies for sustainable architecture across a range of project typologies. You will guide design teams, conduct research into innovative green building technologies, and ensure that projects achieve high standards of environmental performance and certifications (e.g., Green Star, LEED). This position requires a deep understanding of passive design principles, renewable energy integration, material science, and water conservation strategies. As a remote-first organization, you will collaborate with colleagues and clients globally, leveraging digital tools to foster a sustainable future for the built environment. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant impact from your home base in **Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape**, shaping a more sustainable built future.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of sustainable design principles into all phases of the architectural process.
• Develop and implement strategies for achieving high-performance green building certifications.
• Conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs) and energy modeling simulations.
• Research and recommend innovative sustainable materials, technologies, and systems.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to optimize building performance for energy efficiency, water conservation, and occupant well-being.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance on sustainable design to project teams and clients.
• Develop and present sustainability reports, strategies, and design solutions.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in sustainable building science and policy.
• Mentor junior architects and designers in sustainable design practices.
• Engage with external consultants, researchers, and regulatory bodies on sustainability matters.
• Promote a culture of sustainability within the firm and externally.
• Ensure compliance with relevant environmental regulations and standards.

Requirements

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP.
• Master's degree or equivalent in Architecture, Sustainable Design, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in architectural practice, with a strong focus on sustainable design.
• Proven experience leading sustainability initiatives on complex building projects.
• In-depth knowledge of green building rating systems (e.g., Green Star SA, LEED, BREEAM).
• Proficiency in energy modeling software (e.g., eQUEST, EnergyPlus) and LCA tools.
• Familiarity with passive design strategies and renewable energy systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a remote setting.
• Strong collaboration and team leadership capabilities.
• Accreditation as a Green Star SA Accredited Professional (or similar) is highly desirable.
• Experience with material selection for low environmental impact.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge sustainable projects.
• Flexible and remote working environment.
• Professional development and training opportunities in green building technologies.
• Contribution to meaningful environmental impact through design.
• Collaborative and mission-driven team culture.
• Generous annual leave.