Architectural Designer - Sustainable Community Housing

Placements24; Riverton (UT); On-site; USD 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Meaningful projects addressing housing

Professional development opportunities

Supportive team environment in Upinton

Career growth within a socially aware

Exposure to diverse housing challenges

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape is seeking an Architectural Designer to craft sustainable, affordable community housing. You will lead design from concept through construction, engaging communities to reflect their needs and constraints.

The role emphasizes low-cost construction, local materials, and climate-appropriate solutions, with collaboration across engineers, QS, and development practitioners. A passion for social impact is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture is required.
• 3–5 years of architectural design experience, housing or community projects preferred.
• Strong understanding of sustainable design principles and low‑income housing challenges.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit and SketchUp; 3D modeling and rendering a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop sustainable, affordable community housing designs.
• Engage with community members to gather feedback and inform design.
• Produce detailed drawings, models and specs using industry software.
• Collaborate with engineers, QS and development practitioners for integrated designs.
• Research affordable materials and technologies suitable for the Northern Cape climate.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, standards and accessibility.
• Provide construction support and client presentations as needed.
• Prepare design reports for clients, funders and communities.
• Stay current with best practices in sustainable housing design.

Skills

Communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Community engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client is an innovative architectural practice committed to designing sustainable and affordable housing solutions for communities. We are seeking a passionate Architectural Designer to join our team in **Upington, Northern Cape**. This role focuses on developing functional, environmentally responsible, and contextually appropriate designs for community housing projects. You will be involved in all stages of the design process, from conceptualization and community engagement to detailed design development and construction support. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of sustainable design principles, low-cost construction techniques, and a desire to make a positive social impact. Experience with local building materials and methods in the **Northern Cape** region would be highly advantageous. Join us in **Upington, Northern Cape**, and contribute to creating dignified and sustainable living environments that enhance the quality of life for residents.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop innovative and sustainable architectural designs for community housing projects, focusing on affordability, functionality, and environmental performance.
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to understand their needs and incorporate feedback into the design process.
• Produce detailed architectural drawings, models, and specifications using industry-standard software.
• Collaborate with engineers, quantity surveyors, and community development practitioners to ensure integrated and buildable designs.
• Research and specify appropriate, cost-effective, and sustainable materials and construction technologies suitable for the **Northern Cape** climate and context.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant building codes, housing standards, and accessibility requirements.
• Provide technical support during the construction phase, assisting contractors in the implementation of designs.
• Prepare design reports and presentations for clients, funding agencies, and community groups.
• Stay current with best practices in sustainable housing design and affordable housing development.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture.
• Minimum of 3-5 years of experience in architectural design, with a focus on housing or community development projects.
• Demonstrated understanding of sustainable design principles and low-income housing challenges.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp.
• Experience with 3D modeling and rendering is a plus.
• Strong understanding of construction methods and materials relevant to affordable housing.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and community engagement skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Familiarity with the climatic conditions and building regulations in the **Northern Cape** is desirable.
• A passion for social impact and community-focused design.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work on meaningful projects that address housing needs.
• Professional development opportunities focused on sustainable and community design.
• A supportive team environment in **Upington, Northern Cape**, committed to social impact.
• Contribution to creating improved living conditions for communities.
• Exposure to diverse project challenges and innovative solutions in housing design.
• Potential for career growth within a socially conscious firm.