rat [LAB] - Research in Architecture & Technology
Website:
rat-lab.org
Job details:
We're HiringFounder's Office | Studio Operations ArchitectLocation: Delhi NCR (Full-Time)
At rat[LAB] Studio, we are not looking for a conventional Executive Assistant.
We are looking for an architect who wants to become the Founder's left hand—someone who thrives on ownership, enjoys managing people and systems, and wants to learn what it takes to build and run a design-led organisation from the inside.
Working directly with Architect Sushant Verma, this role sits within the Founder's Office and is responsible for ensuring that the studio operates with clarity, efficiency and excellence every single day.
If you're an architect with 1–3 years of professional experience, possess exceptional organisational skills, and aspire to grow into a leadership position beyond conventional architectural practice, we'd love to hear from you.
Your RoleThis position combines the responsibilities of a Founder's Office Associate, Studio Operations Manager, Business Associate, Executive Assistant, HR Coordinator and Team Leader.
You will be entrusted with the smooth functioning of every operational aspect of the studio while serving as the primary coordination point between the Founder, the internal team, clients and external collaborators.
As you grow within the organisation, you will also gain a deep understanding of the business of architecture and design, gradually evolving into a trusted Business Associate who contributes not only to operations but also to the strategic growth of rat[LAB] Studio and its allied verticals.
Key ResponsibilitiesFounder's Office- Manage the Founder's calendar, meetings, travel plans and daily priorities.
- Coordinate all external communication directed to the Founder's Office.
- Schedule and organise client meetings, consultant interactions, institutional collaborations and speaking engagements.
- Accompany the Founder for client meetings, presentations, site visits, lectures, keynote talks, workshops and important industry events whenever required.
- Follow up on action items, ensuring commitments are executed efficiently and on time.
- Maintain confidentiality while handling sensitive business information.
Studio Operations- Oversee the day-to-day functioning of the studio and ensure smooth coordination across all departments.
- Monitor office administration, procurement, repairs, maintenance, studio infrastructure and vendor coordination.
- Ensure office supplies, equipment and studio resources are always available and functioning.
- Coordinate with vendors, consultants, execution partners and service providers.
- Identify operational challenges proactively and resolve them before they affect workflow.
People & HR Operations- Lead the recruitment process for various positions within the studio.
- Coordinate interviews and, where appropriate, conduct first-round interviews on behalf of the Founder.
- Manage the complete onboarding and offboarding process for all team members.
- Handle all internal communication across the organisation.
- Maintain employee records, documentation, contracts, operational files and internal systems.
- Coordinate leave records, documentation and administrative processes.
- Ensure all organisational documentation and internal workflows remain updated and efficiently managed.
Culture & Leadership- Foster a positive, professional and collaborative studio environment.
- Take ownership of employee wellbeing and help maintain a warm and welcoming workplace culture.
- Coordinate team outings, celebrations, workshops and team-building activities.
- Ensure every member of the studio feels supported, heard and empowered to perform at their best.
- Support conflict resolution and facilitate healthy communication within the team whenever required.
- Lead by example and gradually grow into a leadership role within the organisation.
Who We're Looking ForWe are specifically looking for Architects.
Essential Requirements- Bachelor's degree in Architecture.
- 1–3 years of professional experience in an architecture or design practice.
- Outstanding organisational and communication skills.
- Excellent written English and professional email etiquette.
- Strong ownership, accountability and problem-solving ability.
- Confidence while interacting with clients, consultants, institutions and senior professionals.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- High emotional intelligence and people management skills.
- A positive attitude and willingness to take initiative beyond a defined job description.
Why This Role is DifferentThis is not an administrative position.
You will gain direct exposure to:
- Business development
- Studio management
- Team leadership
- Recruitment & HR operations
- Client relationship management
- Project coordination
- Public speaking and institutional collaborations
- Entrepreneurship and business strategy
- Decision-making alongside the Founder
This role is designed for someone who wants to understand how an internationally recognised architecture and technology practice is built and scaled from within. Over time, you will transition from managing operations to becoming a trusted Business Associate, actively contributing to the studio's long-term vision and growth.
What We Offer- A highly competitive salary based on your experience, competency and overall suitability for the role.
- An even more competitive performance-based bonus structure, rewarding your contribution towards business growth, operational excellence and strategic initiatives across the organisation.
- Direct mentorship from Architect Sushant Verma, working closely within the Founder's Office.
- Exposure to business development, leadership, entrepreneurship and high-level decision-making.
- The opportunity to understand how an internationally recognised architecture, technology and education ecosystem is built and managed.
- A clearly defined long-term growth path from Studio Operations into Business Leadership within the organisation.
- The opportunity to work across multiple verticals, including architecture, bespoke facades, interiors, public art, education, AI-driven design initiatives and emerging ventures under the rat[LAB] ecosystem.
Application ProcessIf this opportunity excites you, please do more than simply click Apply.
Email your application to info@rat-lab.org with the subject line:
Founder's Office | Studio Operations Architect
Your email must include:
- Your CV
- Portfolio
- A personalised cover letter addressed to Architect Sushant Verma
Your cover letter should clearly explain:
- Why you believe you are the right fit for this role.
- Why you wish to work directly with the Founder.
- How your background, attitude and aspirations align with the responsibilities outlined above.
- What unique value you believe you can bring to rat[LAB] Studio.
Applications without a thoughtful cover letter are unlikely to be considered.
Interviews will be scheduled immediately, and candidates available for immediate joining will be given preference.
We're not looking for someone to simply manage a calendar.
We're looking for someone who wants to help build the future of rat[LAB] Studio from the Founder's Office.
Click on Apply to know more.