Lead Architect - Urban Planning & Development

Placements24; Willows (CA); On-site; USD 72,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

In-office role

Growth opportunities

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Paid holidays

Bonuses

Training access

Conference attendance

Innovation culture

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Architect with urban planning expertise to lead master plans for major developments in Welkom, Free State. You will steer design direction, engage communities and stakeholders, and align projects with regulatory standards.

The role requires a Master’s degree, SAIA/SACAP accreditation, 10+ years of experience in large-scale projects, and a proven leadership track. It is an in-office position with strong growth, a competitive package, and access to top design tools.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or closely related field.
• Professional accreditation (SAIA, SACAP).
• 10+ years of relevant experience in architectural design and urban planning.

Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee master plans and architectural concepts for major urban development projects.
• Lead design teams in creating detailed architectural designs.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and zoning research for Welkom developments.
• Engage with community stakeholders, local government, and developers to integrate diverse needs.
• Ensure designs comply with planning regulations and building standards in Free State, ZA.
• Manage project budgets and schedules for urban planning initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder negotiation

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning

SAIA/SACAP accreditation

10+ years experience

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

GIS

Lumion

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a visionary Lead Architect with expertise in urban planning and large-scale development to join their prestigious firm in Welkom, Free State, ZA. This role is crucial for steering the design direction of significant urban renewal and expansion projects, requiring a deep understanding of integrated city planning, community engagement, and sustainable development practices. You will be at the forefront of designing master plans and architectural frameworks that will shape the future landscape of Welkom and surrounding areas. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven track record in managing complex projects from conception through to completion, ensuring innovative design solutions that meet both aesthetic and functional requirements. This position offers the opportunity to influence urban development policies and to lead a talented team of architects and urban designers in creating vibrant, resilient, and inclusive communities within the Free State region. Your leadership will be key in fostering a design-centric approach to urban challenges.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and oversee master plans and architectural concepts for major urban development projects.


• Lead design teams in the creation of detailed architectural designs, ensuring coherence and adherence to project vision.


• Conduct thorough site analyses, feasibility studies, and zoning research for new developments in Welkom.


• Engage with community stakeholders, local government, and developers to integrate diverse needs into project plans.


• Ensure all designs comply with national and provincial planning regulations and building standards in Free State, ZA.


• Manage project budgets and schedules for urban planning initiatives, ensuring efficient resource allocation.


• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including civil engineers, environmental consultants, and landscape architects.


• Present design proposals and project updates to clients, government bodies, and the public.


• Promote best practices in sustainable urban design and resilient infrastructure development.


• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior urban planners and architects within the team.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or a closely related field.


• Professional accreditation (e.g., SAIA, South African Council for the Architectural Profession - SACAP).


• 10+ years of relevant experience in architectural design, urban planning, and large-scale project leadership.


• Demonstrated expertise in master planning, zoning law, and development processes.


• Proficiency in advanced design and visualization software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, GIS, Lumion).


• Strong understanding of environmental impact assessments and sustainable urban development strategies.


• Exceptional leadership, communication, and stakeholder negotiation skills.


• Proven ability to manage complex, multi-phase projects within strict timelines and budgets.


• Experience working with public sector clients and understanding of public procurement processes.


• A robust portfolio showcasing significant contributions to urban planning and development projects.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package.


• Opportunity to lead transformative urban development projects in Welkom.


• Full-time, in-office role with excellent team synergy.


• Extensive opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.


• Access to state-of-the-art design tools and technologies.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.


• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.


• Performance-based bonuses.


• Company-sponsored training and conference attendance.


• Supportive work environment focused on innovation and collaboration.