Cape Town, ZA Hybrid Full-time

SAOTA is hiring a Junior Architectural Researcher

About the Role

Contribute to the advancement of architectural design through targeted research and knowledge curation. In this role, you will collaborate with project teams to identify and evaluate materials, construction technologies, and building systems that align with design intent and performance standards. Your work will directly inform decision-making across a range of high-profile projects.

What You'll Do

Conduct in-depth research into current and emerging architectural products and systems, responding to project-specific inquiries and senior guidance. Source innovative solutions from international markets, applying sound judgment and technical understanding. Present findings with clarity, supported by performance data, availability insights, and application context.

Maintain awareness of global design developments by engaging with leading architectural publications and industry networks. Share relevant discoveries with internal teams to support informed design choices. Assist in refining and expanding both physical and digital resource libraries, ensuring materials are accurately documented and curated to reflect project needs and design philosophy.

Help develop a vetted global network of suppliers and manufacturers, focusing on regions of strategic importance. Evaluate partners based on quality, reliability, and regional suitability. Represent the Resource Centre in communications with external specialists, gathering technical specifications and performance details while upholding professional standards.

Requirements

  • Formal qualification in architecture
  • Minimum of three years of professional experience in architectural research or technical specification
  • Proven ability to research, assess, and present architectural materials and systems
  • Strong grasp of construction methods, material performance, and system integration
  • Excellent written and spoken English with precise communication skills
  • Ability to follow documentation standards and adapt to evolving templates
  • Reliable home internet connection with minimum 20Mbps upload and download speeds
  • Flexibility to work from home or on-site in Cape Town as needed

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience managing or contributing to architectural material libraries

Benefits

  • Hybrid work arrangement balancing office and remote work
  • Access to curated physical and digital architectural resources
  • Opportunities to connect with global suppliers and manufacturers
  • Exposure to international design trends and emerging technologies
  • Professional growth through continuous learning and research
Required Skills
Architectural ResearchMaterial SpecificationTechnical DocumentationArchitectural SystemsDesign InterpretationResearch & DevelopmentDigital Library ManagementPhysical Library CurationConstruction TechnologiesDesign Decision Support Architectural ResearchMaterial SpecificationTechnical DocumentationArchitectural SystemsDesign InterpretationResearch & DevelopmentDigital Library ManagementPhysical Library CurationConstruction TechnologiesDesign Decision Support
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About company
SAOTA

Award-winning international architecture firm working across six continents with expertise in master planning, commercial, hospitality, residential, and public buildings.

SAOTA is known for its innovative design approach, blending contemporary architecture with regional and cultural contexts to create spaces that respond to light, space, and life.

All jobs at SAOTA Visit website
Job Details
Department Resource Centre
Category other
Posted a month ago