Principal Architect - Sustainable Design

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Comprehensive benefits

Leadership training

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a visionary Principal Architect to lead an East London design studio in the Eastern Cape. The role drives environmentally conscious, contextually responsive design, mentoring a team and managing complex projects from inception to completion.

The ideal candidate has deep expertise in sustainable design, strong leadership, and proficiency with BIM tools (Revit) and visualization software. This is a senior leadership opportunity in a dynamic, award-winning practice.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture (recognized institution).
• At least 10–12 years in architectural practice with leadership experience.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles and green building certifications (LEED, EDGE).
• Proficiency in BIM software (Revit) and visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of innovative, sustainable architectural designs.
• Oversee project teams ensuring high-quality output and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with clients to translate vision into functional spaces.
• Ensure compliance with building codes and environmental standards.
• Mentor junior architects and designers for growth.
• Manage timelines, budgets, and resources.
• Represent the firm in client meetings and presentations.
• Research and integrate sustainable technologies and materials.
• Contribute to the firm’s thought leadership in sustainable architecture.
• Maintain relationships with consultants, contractors, and regulators.

Skills

Leadership

Client relationship management

Mentoring

Sustainability

Strategic thinking

Education

Professional degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit BIM

3D visualization tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning architectural practice renowned for its commitment to sustainability, is seeking a visionary Principal Architect to lead their innovative design studio in East London, Eastern Cape . This senior leadership role is integral to driving the firm's vision for environmentally conscious and contextually responsive design. You will be responsible for conceptualizing and delivering cutting-edge projects, mentoring a talented team of architects and designers, and fostering client relationships. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional design talent, a deep understanding of sustainable building principles, and a proven ability to manage complex projects from inception to completion. This is a unique opportunity to shape the built environment of East London and beyond, championing sustainable architectural solutions. We are looking for a thought leader who can inspire and guide our design processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of innovative architectural designs with a strong focus on sustainability.
• Oversee project teams, ensuring high-quality design output and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with clients to understand their vision and translate it into functional and inspiring spaces.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant building codes, regulations, and environmental standards.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and designers, promoting professional growth and design excellence.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.
• Represent the firm in client meetings, presentations, and public consultations in East London .
• Research and integrate sustainable technologies, materials, and strategies into design proposals.
• Contribute to the firm's thought leadership in sustainable architecture.
• Maintain strong relationships with consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.

Requirements

• Professional degree in Architecture from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of 10-12 years of progressive experience in architectural practice, with a significant portion in a leadership or principal role.
• Demonstrated expertise in sustainable design principles, green building certifications (e.g., LEED, EDGE), and energy-efficient design strategies.
• Proficiency in advanced architectural design software, including BIM (e.g., Revit) and visualization tools.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex, large-scale architectural projects.
• Exceptional design sensibility, creativity, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong leadership, team management, and client relationship skills.
• Excellent knowledge of South African building regulations and planning processes.
• Registered with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP).
• Excellent communication and presentation abilities.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonus structure.
• Comprehensive medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance benefits.
• Significant opportunities for professional development and leadership training.
• Chance to lead impactful and award-winning projects in the Eastern Cape .
• A dynamic, collaborative, and creative work culture.
• Relocation assistance may be available for the right candidate.
• Annual leave and paid sick leave.