Associate Design Architect

Take the lead in shaping major residential projects from early concept design through to Development Application (DA). You’ll play a pivotal role driving design strategy, feasibility, and planning direction for large-scale Class 2 multi-residential projects. Ensuring every concept aligns with client vision, regulatory frameworks, and sustainability goals.

As part of the national design team, you’ll help drive design quality and innovation across the practice, influencing key urban and residential outcomes on a national scale. This is a pivotal position for an architect who enjoys setting creative direction and guiding design integrity from front-end strategy.

You’ll join a nationally recognised, design-led studio celebrated for its collaborative culture, sustainability credentials, and long-term pipeline. As a carbon-neutral certified practice, sustainability is embedded across design philosophy and operations.

What You'll Do

Lead projects from feasibility and concept design through to DA submission

Develop and coordinate planning strategies, including Planning Proposals, SSDAs, and DAs

Oversee design integrity through all phases, ensuring compliance with client and regulatory requirements

Collaborate closely with the national design team to elevate design standards across projects

Manage consultant coordination and stakeholder engagement

Guide Revit documentation across all project stages for quality and consistency

Liaise with clients, authorities, and contractors to resolve design and compliance issues

Mentor junior team members to support professional growth and design excellence

What You'll Bring

Architectural registration in NSW (preferred)

10+ years’ experience delivering projects from concept through to DA

Proven ability in design leadership, feasibility, and project coordination

Strong working knowledge of SEPP, ADG, NCC, and NSW planning controls

Proficiency in Revit and confident documentation skills

Demonstrated experience leading large-scale residential (Class 2) projects

Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills

Australian citizenship or permanent residency

About The Practice

A leading national design practice shaping Australia’s urban landscape for over 30 years. Known for design innovation, technical excellence, and a people-first culture, the studio combines creativity with commercial and environmental awareness to deliver enduring outcomes across residential, hotel, and mixed-use sectors.

Perks

Diverse Project Exposure: Engage with varied project types across sectors

Training & Development: Access in-house and external programs, plus a $1000 annual training fund

Structured Performance Reviews: Regular probationary and annual reviews to support progression

Opportunities for Promotion: Clear and transparent career pathways within the firm

Mentorship Programs: Participate in structured mentoring for professional and personal growth

Support for Architectural Registration: Receive financial and managerial backing to obtain NSW registration

Exciting Projects: Contribute to projects shaping cities across Australia

Dynamic Studio Culture: Join a collaborative, design-led environment celebrating creativity

Professional Growth: Develop within a national network of design advocates and thought leaders

How To Apply

To confidentially discuss this opportunity, contact Jess Baker on or email .

About Kappa Executive Search

Kappa Executive Search is a boutique recruitment firm specialising in Architecture, Interior Design, and Project Management sectors. We partner with leading consultancies and top-tier talent across Australia to build lasting career connections.