Lead Sustainable Design Architect

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Conference opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Sustainable Design Architect in Stellenbosch to drive environmental innovation across projects. You will embed green building principles, lead research, and develop sustainability frameworks within a top architectural practice.

The role requires a passion for ecological design, SACAP registration, and a track record of guiding projects to green certifications. Join a Cape Town–region firm with a strong emphasis on sustainable impact.

Qualifications

• Registered SACAP Architect with professional practice credentials.
• Minimum 8 years of architectural experience with a focus on sustainable design.
• Proven track record leading sustainable design on significant projects.
• Deep knowledge of green building principles, technologies, and rating systems (e.g., Green Star SA, EDGE).
• Proficiency in energy modeling and lifecycle assessment tools.
• Excellent understanding of building physics, climate-responsive design and materials.
• Strong communication, presentation, and collaboration skills.
• Inspiring leadership to influence project teams and clients.
• Experience with parametric design and computational optimization is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sustainable design strategies and frameworks for all projects.
• Lead integration of passive design, renewable energy, and sustainable materials.
• Conduct lifecycle assessments and environmental impact analyses.
• Guide teams to achieve green building certifications (Green Star SA, EDGE).
• Collaborate with clients and consultants to define sustainability goals and metrics.
• Research and stay updated on advancements in sustainable architecture and technologies.
• Develop and deliver internal training on sustainable design best practices.
• Advocate for sustainable design principles within the firm and industry.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation on sustainability performance.

Skills

Sustainability leadership

Stakeholder collaboration

Communication

Ecological design advocacy

Education

Professional Architect qualification (SACAP)

Tools

Energy modeling software

Lifecycle assessment tools

Parametric design tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a visionary architectural firm at the forefront of sustainable development, is seeking an inspirational Lead Sustainable Design Architect to drive environmental innovation across their projects in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This role is central to embedding green building principles and cutting-edge sustainable strategies into every aspect of the design process. You will be responsible for leading research, developing sustainable design frameworks, and collaborating with project teams to achieve ambitious environmental performance targets. The ideal candidate is passionate about ecological design, possesses a deep understanding of green building certifications (e.g., Green Star SA, EDGE), and has a proven ability to translate complex sustainability concepts into practical, aesthetically pleasing, and high-performing buildings. Join a forward-thinking practice in the heart of the Cape Winelands, dedicated to creating a more sustainable built environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement sustainable design strategies and frameworks for all projects.
• Lead the integration of passive design techniques, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable materials.
• Conduct lifecycle assessments and environmental impact analyses.
• Guide project teams in achieving green building certifications (e.g., Green Star SA, EDGE).
• Collaborate with clients and consultants to define sustainability goals and performance metrics.
• Research and stay updated on the latest advancements in sustainable architecture and green technologies.
• Develop and deliver internal training on sustainable design best practices.
• Advocate for and promote sustainable design principles within the firm and the wider industry.
• Prepare technical reports and documentation related to sustainability performance.

Requirements

• Professional Architect qualification registered with SACAP.
• Minimum of 8 years of architectural experience, with a strong emphasis on sustainable design.
• Demonstrated experience in leading sustainable design on significant projects.
• Expert knowledge of green building principles, technologies, and rating systems.
• Proficiency in energy modeling software and lifecycle assessment tools.
• Excellent understanding of building physics, climate-responsive design, and material science.
• Strong communication, presentation, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to inspire and influence project teams and clients.
• A commitment to environmental stewardship and innovative design solutions.
• Experience with parametric design and computational tools for optimization is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and an exceptional benefits package, including comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, and opportunities for professional development focused on sustainable practices. This role provides a unique chance to work on pioneering projects that have a positive environmental impact, based in the beautiful and intellectually vibrant setting of Stellenbosch . Employees benefit from a supportive and collaborative work culture, regular workshops, and the chance to attend leading sustainability conferences. Join a practice that is shaping the future of environmentally responsible architecture in the Western Cape and contributing to a greener planet.