Architect at ISM Africa

We are seeking a highly skilled and professionally registered Building Architect to join our team and lead architectural components of our construction and infrastructure projects. This role is ideal for a motivated and legally accredited professional who is capable of not only designing buildings but also securing regulatory approvals, particularly planning permissions, through the use of their professional license.

The Architect will play a central role throughout the lifecycle of our projects — from concept design and statutory compliance to construction supervision and final handover — ensuring all developments are executed to the highest standards of design, safety, functionality, and legal conformity.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Development

• Lead architectural design and planning for new developments, refurbishments, and renovations.
• Prepare conceptual designs, detailed drawings, 3D models, specifications, and material selections.
• Coordinate with structural engineers, quantity surveyors, MEP consultants, and project managers to ensure fully integrated project solutions.
• Maintain design integrity and alignment with client requirements, budget, and site context.

Regulatory Compliance & Approvals

• Use your official Architectural Registration License to apply for and obtain planning permissions and other statutory approvals from relevant authorities.
• Liaise with local planning offices, zoning departments, and compliance bodies to facilitate project approvals.
• Ensure all designs conform with building codes, planning regulations, environmental standards, and other statutory requirements.

Project Management & Oversight

• Participate in project scheduling, budgeting, and risk analysis.
• Attend site meetings, conduct inspections, and monitor site works to ensure they align with design intent and statutory requirements.
• Issue instructions and documentation (e.g., site instructions, variation orders, progress reports) to contractors as needed.
• Ensure project execution adheres to architectural specifications, safety regulations, and legal conditions tied to approvals.

Stakeholder Communication

• Engage with clients, contractors, consultants, and government officials to communicate design objectives and compliance strategies.
• Act as the architectural authority on planning-related legal matters across the organization’s portfolio of developments.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Architecture from a recognized institution.
• Registered Architect with [Insert Registration Authority, e.g., Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors of Kenya (BORAQS), RIBA, AIA, etc.].
• Valid license to practice as an Architect and to make statutory planning applications.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-registration experience, including full project lifecycle delivery.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating design excellence and regulatory success.

Skills & Competencies

• Deep knowledge of local planning laws, building codes, and approval processes.
• Proficiency in architectural software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Suite).
• Strong communication and negotiation skills with ability to interface with regulatory bodies and multi-disciplinary teams.
• High attention to detail, problem-solving ability, and time management.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating closely with broader project teams.