Senior Conservation Architect - Heritage Buildings

Placements24; Queenstown; On-site; NZD 96,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development support

Generous annual leave

Membership reimbursements

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Conservation Architect to lead heritage preservation and restoration across Queenstown, Eastern Cape. You will assess conditions, plan conservation strategies, and implement restoration with a focus on authenticity and minimal intervention, while collaborating with heritage authorities and specialists.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s in Architecture with Conservation, SACAP registration, 8+ years of relevant experience, and strong AutoCAD/Revit skills.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture with Conservation specialization.
• Minimum 8 years of heritage conservation experience.
• Registration with SACAP is essential.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit.

Responsibilities

• Conduct condition assessments and historical research for heritage buildings and sites.
• Develop conservation management plans and restoration strategies with minimal intervention to preserve original fabric.
• Prepare drawings, specifications and schedules for conservation works.
• Oversee projects ensuring compliance with heritage guidelines and regulations.
• Coordinate with heritage bodies, authorities, engineers, and specialists.
• Manage budgets and timelines for conservation initiatives in Queenstown.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Project management

Client management

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Architecture (Conservation)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About the Role Our client is a highly respected architectural firm dedicated to the preservation and sensitive restoration of heritage buildings and historical sites across Queenstown, Eastern Cape, and surrounding regions. We are seeking an experienced Senior Conservation Architect to lead our efforts in safeguarding and revitalizing valuable architectural assets. This role requires a deep understanding of historical construction techniques, materials, and architectural styles, combined with modern conservation methodologies. You will be responsible for assessing the condition of heritage structures, developing conservation strategies, and overseeing restoration projects to ensure authenticity and longevity. The ideal candidate will possess a strong passion for heritage preservation, meticulous attention to detail, and a proven track record in managing complex conservation projects. You will work closely with heritage authorities, material scientists, and craftspeople to maintain the integrity and character of these significant buildings. Join our dedicated team in Queenstown, Eastern Cape, and make a tangible contribution to preserving South Africa's rich architectural legacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed condition assessments and historical research for heritage buildings and sites.
• Develop comprehensive conservation management plans and restoration strategies, ensuring minimal intervention and maximum preservation of original fabric.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and schedules for conservation and restoration works.
• Oversee the execution of conservation projects, ensuring compliance with heritage guidelines, building regulations, and best practices.
• Liaise effectively with heritage bodies, local authorities, engineers, and specialist consultants.
• Manage project budgets and timelines for conservation and restoration initiatives in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.
• Advise clients and stakeholders on appropriate materials, repair techniques, and maintenance practices for heritage structures.
• Mentor junior architects and provide technical expertise in heritage conservation.
• Prepare reports, presentations, and documentation for heritage impact assessments and approvals.
• Stay updated on national and international standards and advancements in heritage conservation architecture.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture with a specialization in Conservation or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in architectural conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of heritage buildings.
• In-depth knowledge of historical architectural styles, materials, and traditional construction methods.
• Proficiency in architectural drafting software (AutoCAD, Revit) and historical documentation techniques.
• Experience in preparing conservation plans and heritage impact assessments.
• Strong understanding of relevant legislation, policies, and guidelines pertaining to heritage conservation in South Africa.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong negotiation, communication, and client management abilities.
• Professional registration with SACAP is essential.
• Experience working within the Eastern Cape region is advantageous.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package commensurate with expertise.
• Opportunity to work on historically significant and architecturally important projects.
• Professional development support for specialized conservation training and conferences.
• A passionate and dedicated team environment in Queenstown, Eastern Cape.
• Contribution to the preservation of cultural heritage for future generations.
• Exposure to unique restoration challenges and innovative conservation solutions.
• Generous annual leave and professional membership reimbursements.