Research Architect

About the role

SAOTA/ARRCC is looking for a detail‑oriented Research Architect to lead the creation and curation of knowledge‑based content that supports and optimises the firm’s architectural and design workflow. Based in Cape Town, you will work closely with internal teams to keep the studio at the cutting edge of materials, technologies and regulatory standards.

Key responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate the latest architectural materials, technologies, and systems.
• Maintain and expand a digital and physical knowledge library, ensuring compliance with global and regional regulations.
• Collaborate with the Resource Centre and design teams to validate suppliers, manufacturers and research findings.
• Develop technical content for manuals, guidelines and templates that align with SAOTA/ARRCC’s brand standards.
• Share research insights globally, fostering engagement and continuous improvement within the studio.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in Architecture with at least 5 years of post‑qualification experience.
• Strong technical knowledge of architectural materials, elements and systems.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Professional, accountable, resource‑ful and able to handle confidential information.
• Must reside in Cape Town and have reliable remote‑work capability (20 Mbps+ internet).

Required skills

• Architectural materials knowledge
• Architectural systems knowledge
• Research methodology for architecture
• Remote‑work setup with high‑speed internet

What we offer

• Opportunity to work with a globally recognised design team.
• Access to cutting‑edge projects that shape architectural innovation.
• Collaborative environment that values research‑driven design.