Project Architect – Design & Construction

Our client is a forward-thinking architectural firm that designs spaces meant to inspire, challenge convention, and endure. They are seeking a visionary Project Architect who brings equal passion to the initial concept sketch and the final project walkthrough. This is a rare opportunity for an architect who thrives at the intersection of bold design thinking and disciplined real-world execution.

Based in Nairobi, you will own the full project lifecycle — from concept ideation through schematic design, design development, construction documentation, and construction administration — while serving as the trusted face of the firm for clients and on-site stakeholders alike.

• Lead the development of comprehensive architectural designs, ensuring each project reflects both client vision and contextual appropriateness.
• Produce, review, and manage high-quality construction documentation sets including detailed plans, sections, elevations, and schedules.
• Ensure all designs comply with Kenyan building codes, local by-laws, and relevant Acts governing construction.
• Act as the primary architectural representative on-site, conducting regular site visits and progress observations to safeguard design intent.
• Review and process contractor submittals, shop drawings, and Requests for Information (RFIs) with precision and within agreed turnaround times.
• Issue field orders, design revisions, and clarification sketches to resolve on-site construction conflicts without compromising the original design vision.
• Participate in substantial completion inspections and generate comprehensive punch-lists to ensure project closeout standards are met.
• Serve as the primary client liaison — managing expectations, presenting design iterations, and maintaining strong professional relationships throughout the project.
• Coordinate with cross-functional consultant teams including structural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), and civil engineers to ensure integrated, buildable designs.
• Mentor and guide junior architectural staff, setting clear technical benchmarks and fostering a culture of design excellence.
• Collaborate closely with Project Managers to align architectural deliverables with project budgets and construction schedules.

• Must hold a Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution and demonstrate a portfolio of completed built work.
• Must have at least 5 years of progressive experience in an architectural firm, with demonstrable experience taking projects from concept through construction administration.
• Must be able to produce and critically review full construction documentation packages independently, catching technical gaps before they reach site.
• Must communicate design intent clearly to clients, contractors, and consultants — both verbally and through technical drawings.
• Must demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard design and documentation tools (AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, or equivalent BIM/CAD platforms).
• Must be able to manage multiple projects simultaneously, prioritising competing deadlines without sacrificing documentation quality.
• Registered Architect with the Board of Registration of Architects and Quantity Surveyors (BORAQS) is strongly preferred.
• Must exercise high integrity in contract administration, ensuring impartial, code-compliant decisions on site.

This is a full-time, Nairobi-based position. Based on the seniority of the role and prevailing Kenyan market rates for experienced Project Architects, the estimated monthly gross salary range is KES 150,000 – 280,000, commensurate with your portfolio, licensure status, and years of experience. The hiring firm will confirm the exact package during the interview process.

Ideal candidate: A licensed or license-eligible architect with 5+ years of hands-on experience across design and construction phases, a strong eye for detail, and the confidence to lead client conversations and site meetings with equal ease. You are equally comfortable in front of a drawing board and on a muddy construction site. You take mentorship of junior staff seriously and view it as part of your professional responsibility.

Do not apply if: You have experience limited to design phases only and have never administered a construction contract. Similarly, if you require close supervision on documentation tasks or have fewer than 5 years of relevant architectural practice, this role is not the right fit at this time.

To apply, submit your updated CV and a portfolio of relevant completed projects to Emerge Egress Consulting through their official recruitment channels. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an initial screening interview followed by a technical portfolio review. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis — apply as soon as possible.