Remote Principal Sustainable Design Architect

Placements24; Gqeberha; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health & wellness benefits

Professional development allowances

Global project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Sustainable Design Architect to lead globally remote projects in sustainable architecture. You will drive energy-efficient design, LCAs, and certifications (LEED AP, BREEAM) across international clients, mentoring teams and shaping high-impact, climate-responsive buildings from concept to completion.

This remote-first role offers flexibility, a competitive package, and opportunities to influence urban development from Port Elizabeth to worldwide locations.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture, Sustainable Design, or related field is required.
• At least 12 years of architectural design experience with focus on sustainable/green building practices.
• LEED AP certification or equivalent mandatory.
• Proven experience leading sustainability initiatives on large-scale projects.
• Expertise in energy modeling, LCAs, and environmental simulations.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of sustainable design strategies for global projects.
• Provide expert guidance on energy efficiency, water conservation, materials, and renewable integration.
• Manage process of achieving green building certifications (LEED AP, BREEAM).
• Conduct life cycle assessments and environmental impact analyses.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools to optimize building performance.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, clients, and stakeholders.
• Mentor junior architects and sustainability consultants.
• Stay at the forefront of research in sustainable architecture and urbanism.
• Develop and deliver presentations on sustainable design concepts to clients.

Skills

Leadership

Client-facing communication

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Climate-responsive design

Sustainability strategy

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Sustainable Design

Tools

Energy modeling software

Life cycle assessment tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking global architecture and sustainability consultancy, is seeking a Principal Sustainable Design Architect to join their fully remote team. This is a unique opportunity for a visionary leader passionate about environmental stewardship and innovative design to shape the future of sustainable architecture. You will be responsible for leading the integration of cutting-edge sustainable design strategies across a diverse range of international projects, from conceptualization through to completion. The role requires a deep understanding of green building principles, certifications (e.g., LEED, BREEAM), and advanced simulation tools, coupled with strong leadership and client-facing abilities. This position is a remote-first role, enabling you to work from anywhere, contributing to significant projects impacting cities worldwide, including future developments in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of sustainable design strategies for major architectural projects globally.
• Provide expert guidance on energy efficiency, water conservation, material selection, and renewable energy integration.
• Manage the process of achieving green building certifications (e.g., LEED AP, BREEAM Assessor).
• Conduct life cycle assessments (LCAs) and environmental impact analyses.
• Utilize advanced simulation tools (e.g., energy modeling, daylight analysis) to optimize building performance.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, clients, and stakeholders to champion sustainable design principles.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and sustainability consultants.
• Stay at the forefront of research and innovation in sustainable architecture and urbanism.
• Develop and deliver compelling presentations on sustainable design concepts to clients and at conferences.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Sustainable Design, or a related field.
• At least 12 years of experience in architectural design with a specialized focus on sustainable and green building practices.
• Accreditation as LEED AP or equivalent professional certification is mandatory.
• Proven experience leading sustainability initiatives on large-scale, complex projects.
• Expertise in energy modeling software, life cycle assessment tools, and other environmental simulation platforms.
• Deep understanding of climate-responsive design, passive strategies, and net-zero energy principles.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence decision-making.
• A passion for driving positive environmental change through design.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering significant flexibility and autonomy. Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and generous professional development allowances. You will have the opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects worldwide and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable built environment. This role offers the unique advantage of working from Port Elizabeth (or any approved remote location) while collaborating with a global team on impactful sustainable architecture.