Project Architect

Description

As part of achieving its mission, D4C (NGO) is seeking a project architect to support the design process in its different phases: research, schematic design, design development, construction documents, and site supervision. Depending on the project needs, the expertise and interest of the project architects, tasks will include action oriented research and identification of programmatic needs based on a site analysis and a participatory approach with various stakeholders, development of concept design proposals, design development, construction drawings, bill of quantities and specifications, bidding and site supervision.   

About D4C

D4C (Design for Communities) is an NGO based in Beirut that empowers designers and professionals from a variety of backgrounds to engage in community projects in different countries. The interdisciplinary platform connects architects, landscape & urban designers, planners, environmental, climate, mechanical & civil engineers through a diverse portfolio of projects operating at the highest levels of innovation in the field.

Our mission is to empower the design community to actively collaborate, engage, learn and implement innovative and sustainable projects to improve the quality of life of the local communities.

D4C targets the upskilling of communities through an inclusive design hub that democratizes a participatory approach. It gives the opportunity for students, fresh graduates and professionals to use their creative and innovative spirit to actively collaborate, design and engage in building sustainable projects for marginalized communities. It thrives to promote and strengthen design at the core of the development of inclusive, empowered and self-sustainable environments for present and future generations.

Our vision is to have an impact driven design hub that develops innovative sustainable community-based programs and projects.

D4C aims at harnessing the power of design and innovation at the crossroads of impact-driven initiatives. It pioneers sustainable development while triggering creativity, problem-solving, curiosity, and motivation for community empowerment. It integrates technology as part of the design strategy to lead both social and environmental projects for marginalized communities.

Reporting to: Executive director

Responsible for: Coordination of architectural projects

Location: Beirut, Lebanon 

Contract Type: Part-time Consultancy

Period of Employment: 3 months

Application Deadline: September  26, 2025

Role description

The Project Architect will have the following key responsibilities:

• Undertake an action oriented research applicable for the development of the project
• Assist in identifying programmatic needs based on a site analysis and a participatory approach with various stakeholders 
• Prepare proposals for multiple concept design alternatives in coordination with other departments and team members and assist Department Manager/ Lead architect in presentation deliveries to clients and stakeholders and concept design approvals.  
• Review local rules and regulations to ensure the construction project falls within all constraints
• Develop the design, and produce construction drawings, bill of quantities and specifications 
• Coordinate the design with other trades and disciplines
• Develop and execute the bidding process, contractor selection and procurement 
• Supervise the site and construction works
• Coordinate effectively with other team members throughout project lifecycle
• Other tasks assigned by the executive director  

Qualifications and Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture.  
• 3 to 4 years of experience in architectural practice and /or construction
• Experience of working with a team of volunteers and/or staff.
• Experience in coordinating and managing projects
• Prior experience in the humanitarian/NGO sector.
• Experience in conducting needs assessments, architectural programming, community engagement, concept design, design development drawings, construction documents and tender packages, including Bill of quantities, specifications and project schedules. 
• Experience in bidding processes and site supervision 
• Full proficiency  in AutoCad, digital design tools & Adobe programs
• Good presentation and graphic communication skills
• Full proficiency in Microsoft Office and advanced proficiency in excel
• Proficiency in project management tools and software.  
• Ability to coordinate multiple parallel processes with potentially conflicting deadlines. 
• Strong ability to creatively communicate in written and spoken English and Arabic.

Personal qualities

• Leadership skills and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to work as a team manager and colleague in an international and multicultural environment. 
• Self motivated, ability to take initiative and work independently. 
• Open-minded, willing to learn and onboard and drive change.
• Able to work under tight deadlines with a problem-solving mentality
• Strong organizational skills
• Team player, Creativity and problem-solving skills
• Ability to take initiative and work independently
• Ability to be flexible, resourceful and innovative in a variety of situations.
• Displays honesty, integrity, and a strong sense of values and ethics in all actions and decisions. 
• Adaptable to different working conditions, including working under pressure and tight timelines.
• Strong ability to creatively communicate visually and in written and spoken English and Arabic
• Strong communications skills, specifically able to reflect sensitivity when communicating with vulnerable population
• Capacity to maintain relationships and communications in a multicultural environment. 
• Understanding of and acceptance of the fundamental principles of D4C. 
• Ability to work within and team and coordinate with all D4C teams.

Terms and conditions 

The position is a part time job for a three months probationary period, may be offered a longer term, and is renewable on mutual agreement. 

The salary will be paid on a monthly basis, based on an hourly rate. 

The position is based in Beirut, Lebanon. 

Working hours will depend on the tasks at hand and will be agreed upon by both parties. The successful candidate must be willing to work extra hours and on weekends, when necessary. 

The successful candidate is expected to start working by October 2025. 

How to apply

Applications should be submitted at hr@d4communities.org  with the job title mentioned above in the email subject no later than September 26, 2025 and should include:

• A curriculum vitae with details of your education and career history
• A portfolio displaying your personal work   
• A cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, relating your skills, knowledge, and experience to the requirements of the job description and personal specification. Your particular interest and motivation in applying for this role should also be outlined.
• Contact information of at least two persons who can provide employment references.