Architecture Sustainability Director

Description

RIOS is an international design collective. We bring an interdisciplinary approach to design, creating projects that promote wellness and spark joy, and prioritize ecological health and environmental resilience. 

Our practice is a sincere expression of our belief that design is a dynamic exercise influenced by a collection of people representing diverse perspectives. With offices in six cities around the world, we take a hyperlocal approach to design that celebrates and promotes uniqueness of place and creates lasting positive impact. 

RIOS projects are defined by connectedness between architecture and landscape – the built and natural environments – and through responsiveness to their context and attunement to culture. In every project, from cups to cities, we unite people through extraordinary places and experiences. 

We have an immediate opening for Sustainability Director to lead the firm’s sustainability initiatives by integrating environmentally responsible practices into architectural designs, construction processes, and corporate strategies. This role involves collaborating with architects, landscape architects, clients, and industry partners to implement sustainable design solutions that reduce environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency and resource conservation. The Sustainability Director will also ensure compliance with industry standards and advocate for innovative approaches to green building practices. This role is critical to the firm's commitment to advancing sustainable architecture and ensuring every project is environmentally responsible and forward-thinking. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Execute the firm’s sustainability strategy, aligning with architectural and landscape  goals and client needs. 
• Educate and lead efforts in sustainable design, materials selection, and construction methodologies across all projects. 
• Assisting the delivery of advice on environmental design, sustainability benchmarking/implementation, building energy optimization, daylight & shading design, sustainable systems, materials and waste.   
• Collaborate with the executive team to embed sustainability into the firm’s mission, culture, and growth strategy. 
• Provide technical expertise to integrate sustainable design principles (e.g., LEED, WELL, BREEAM, ILFI) into architectural, landscape and interiors projects. 
• Work with internal teams across all design disciplines to ensure building performance, energy efficiency, waste reduction, carbon footprint and other environmental impacts are considered in every phase of design. 
• Innovate and promote the use of sustainable materials, renewable energy systems, and water conservation technologies. 
• Ensure all projects comply with local, national, and international environmental regulations and standards. 
• Stay updated on evolving global sustainability certifications, regulations, and trends to maintain leadership in sustainable design. 
• Educate and advise clients on sustainable building options, cost-benefit analysis, and long-term operational efficiencies. 
• Collaborate with clients and stakeholders to ensure sustainability objectives are met and maintained throughout the lifecycle of each project. 
• Report on sustainability achievements, energy savings, and innovations to internal teams and clients.
• Lead research initiatives to explore new sustainable technologies and innovative materials. 
• Foster partnerships with academic institutions, sustainability organizations, and industry professionals to drive innovation in green design. 
• Organize training programs for staff on sustainability practices and the integration of eco-friendly solutions in design. 
• Promote awareness and continuous education on environmental stewardship within the firm. 

Requirements

Qualifications: 

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Environmental Science, Sustainability, or a related field. 
• Minimum 12 plus years of experience in sustainable design or a related role, with leadership experience preferred. 
• Expertise in sustainable architecture practices, certifications such as LEED AP, WELL AP, or equivalent. 
• In-depth knowledge of energy efficiency, renewable energy systems, future- proofing and environmentally responsible materials. 
• Experience with aspects of building physics, performance analysis, and benchmarking tools.  
• Strong leadership, project management, and communication skills. 
• Ability to inspire and drive change while balancing client needs and environmental goals. 

Preferred Skills: 

• Experience with advanced sustainable technologies and environmental impact assessments. 
• Familiarity with life cycle assessment (LCA) and environmental product declarations (EPDs). 
• Knowledge of landscape design, urban planning, and sustainable development practices.