Head Designer Job at Airswift Sweden (Saue)

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced Head Designer / Lead Architect to lead the architectural and design activities for food processing and manufacturing facilities in Estonia. The role has full responsibility for concept-to-permit-to-build design delivery, acting as the primary technical interface between the project organisation, multidisciplinary engineering teams, local Estonian building authorities, and regulatory bodies. The position requires strong technical competence in industrial/food-grade buildings, deep familiarity with local permitting and compliance processes, and the ability to manage complex stakeholder environments in a regulated industry.

Job Responsibility

Act as overall design authority for architectural scope across food production, processing, packaging, cold storage, and utility buildings
Lead the development of concept, basic, and detailed design in line with project requirements, food safety standards, and client specifications
Coordinate architectural design with process, mechanical, electrical, automation, and HSE disciplines
Ensure layouts support hygienic zoning, material flows, personnel flows, and future expandability
Serve as the primary contact point with local municipalities, building authorities, and permitting agencies in Estonia
Manage and coordinate building permit applications, design approvals, and authority reviews
Ensure full compliance with: Estonian Building Code and Planning Act
Fire safety regulations (Päästeamet requirements)
Environmental and noise regulations
Local zoning, land-use, and planning constraints
Lead technical discussions, clarifications, and revisions requested by authorities
Ensure architectural designs align with food industry regulations and standards, including: Hygienic design principles
GMP, HACCP, and food safety requirements
Cleanability, segregation, and material selection
Coordinate layouts to support audits by food safety authorities and certification bodies
Lead and mentor internal and external designers, architects, and BIM teams
Manage design schedules, deliverables, and interfaces across multiple project phases
Review and approve drawings, specifications, calculations, and technical documentation
Support procurement and construction teams with technical clarifications and site queries
Provide architectural support during construction, including: Design clarifications
Review of shop drawings and as-built documentation
Technical input to change management
Participate in site inspections and coordination meetings as required

Requirements

Degree in Architecture or equivalent (Master’s preferred)
Licensed Architect or eligible for recognition in Estonia (EU qualification preferred)
Minimum 10–15 years’ experience in industrial or complex building projects
Proven experience in food, FMCG, pharmaceutical, or clean industrial facilities
Demonstrated experience working directly with Estonian building authorities
Strong knowledge of: Industrial building design
Food-grade construction and hygienic zoning
Fire and life safety design
BIM-based design coordination
Solid understanding of Estonian permitting, planning, and approval processes
Ability to manage multiple stakeholders across international project teams
High level of written and verbal communication skills

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