Lead Sustainable Design Architect

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive executive salary

Health and wellness benefits

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sustainable Design Architect in Sandton, Gauteng. You will champion sustainable design across a diverse portfolio, lead design teams, and drive energy efficiency, green certifications, and renewable integration.

The role blends leadership with hands-on design review in a hybrid environment. You'll collaborate with engineers and clients to deliver environmentally responsible, high-performance buildings, mentoring staff and advancing the firm's commitment to

Qualifications

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP or equivalent
• 9+ years architectural experience with at least 5 years in sustainable design leadership
• LEED Green Associate/AP or Green Star SA Accredited Professional is highly desirable
• Proven leadership in sustainability initiatives on significant architectural projects
• Proficiency in energy modeling software (IES VE, EnergyPlus) and daylight analysis tools
• Strong understanding of passive design principles, building physics, and low‑carbon technologies
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills
• Experience working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and managing client expectations
• Proficiency in Revit/BIM and related software

Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of sustainable design strategies into all project phases, from concept to completion.
• Conduct and oversee energy modeling, lifecycle assessments, and daylight simulations.
• Research, specify, and advocate for the use of sustainable materials and systems.
• Guide project teams in achieving relevant green building certifications (LEED, Green Star SA, etc.).
• Collaborate with engineers and consultants to optimize building performance and integrate renewable energy solutions.
• Educate clients and project teams on the value and implementation of sustainable design.
• Stay current with global advancements in sustainable architecture, green technologies, and policy.
• Develop reports and presentations to communicate sustainability performance and strategies.
• Ensure sustainability goals are effectively translated into design and construction documentation.

Skills

Leadership

Energy modeling

Daylight analysis

Communication

Presentation skills

Team collaboration

Education

Architect registration (SACAP) or equivalent

LEED Green Associate or Green Star SA Accredited Professional

Tools

Revit

BIM

IES VE

EnergyPlus

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned architectural practice with a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and innovative design solutions, is seeking a Lead Sustainable Design Architect to join their esteemed team in Sandton, Gauteng . This crucial role involves championing and integrating sustainable design principles across a diverse portfolio of projects. You will lead design teams in developing energy-efficient, environmentally conscious, and healthy buildings. The ideal candidate will possess in-depth knowledge of green building certifications (e.g., LEED, Green Star), passive design strategies, renewable energy integration, and sustainable materials. This position operates on a hybrid model, fostering collaboration within the Sandton office while offering remote work flexibility. Your expertise will be vital in shaping a more sustainable built environment within Gauteng and contributing to the firm's leadership in green architecture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the integration of sustainable design strategies into all project phases, from concept to completion.
• Conduct and oversee energy modeling, lifecycle assessments, and daylight simulations.
• Research, specify, and advocate for the use of sustainable materials and systems.
• Guide project teams in achieving relevant green building certifications (LEED, Green Star SA, etc.).
• Collaborate with engineers and consultants to optimize building performance and integrate renewable energy solutions.
• Educate clients and project teams on the value and implementation of sustainable design.
• Stay current with global advancements in sustainable architecture, green technologies, and policy.
• Develop reports and presentations to communicate sustainability performance and strategies.
• Ensure sustainability goals are effectively translated into design and construction documentation.

Requirements

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP or equivalent international body.
• Minimum of 9 years of architectural experience, with at least 5 years dedicated to sustainable design leadership.
• Accreditation as a LEED Green Associate/AP or Green Star SA Accredited Professional is highly desirable.
• Proven experience in leading sustainability initiatives on significant architectural projects.
• Proficiency in energy modeling software (e.g., IES VE, EnergyPlus) and daylight analysis tools.
• Strong understanding of passive design principles, building physics, and low‑carbon technologies.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Experience working collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and managing client expectations.
• Familiarity with advanced architectural design software (Revit, BIM).
• Residency in or willingness to relocate to Sandton, Gauteng , comfortable with a hybrid work schedule.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, retirement fund contributions, and generous opportunities for professional development and continued education. Work on innovative and impactful sustainable projects within South Africa . The hybrid work model ensures flexibility and work-life balance. Be part of a leading architectural firm in Sandton , recognized for its commitment to design excellence and sustainability.