Affordable Housing Architect

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 420,000 - 640,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an Affordable Housing Architect for a socially conscious architectural practice based in Mahikeng, North West. This role focuses on designing low-cost, sustainable housing with strong community impact, from initial engagement to construction supervision.

You will lead design efforts, coordinate with engineers and planners, and ensure affordability, quality and compliance with local housing policies such as FLISP. Experience with public housing projects is preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture required.
• 3–5 years in architectural practice, with affordable housing experience.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit and SketchUp.
• Knowledge of SA housing policies (FLISP) is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design of affordable housing projects.
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to understand local needs for housing.
• Develop innovative and cost-effective design solutions that maximize value and minimize construction costs.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and documentation for tender and construction.
• Ensure designs comply with building codes, national housing standards, and accessibility requirements in the North West.
• Collaborate with engineers, urban planners, and social development professionals for integrated outcomes.
• Oversee construction phases to ensure quality, cost control, and adherence to design intent.
• Research and integrate sustainable building practices for affordable housing contexts.
• Contribute to project management, budget monitoring, and reporting for affordable housing initiatives in Mahikeng.

Skills

Community engagement

Budget awareness

Team collaboration

Cost-conscious design

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a socially conscious architectural practice focused on developing sustainable and community-oriented housing solutions, is seeking a dedicated Affordable Housing Architect to join their team in **Mahikeng, North West**. This role is driven by a mission to design and implement high-quality, cost-effective housing projects that address the critical need for accessible and dignified living spaces. You will be involved in all stages of the design process, from community engagement and conceptualization to detailed design development and construction supervision, with a strong emphasis on affordability, sustainability, and resident well-being. The ideal candidate will possess experience in designing for low-income communities, a deep understanding of cost-efficient construction methods, and a passion for making a positive social impact. Contribute to shaping inclusive communities in **Mahikeng** and the **North West** province.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design of affordable housing projects, ensuring compliance with client needs and funding requirements.
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to understand local needs and aspirations for housing.
• Develop innovative and cost-effective design solutions that maximize value and minimize construction costs.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and documentation for tender and construction.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant building codes, national housing standards, and accessibility requirements in the **North West**.
• Collaborate with engineers, urban planners, and social development professionals to ensure integrated project outcomes.
• Oversee construction phases to ensure quality, cost control, and adherence to design intent.
• Research and integrate sustainable building practices suitable for affordable housing contexts.
• Contribute to project management, budget monitoring, and reporting for affordable housing initiatives in **Mahikeng**.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree in Architecture.
• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in architectural practice, with demonstrated experience in affordable housing or low-cost residential projects.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp).
• Strong understanding of cost-effective construction methods, materials, and procurement strategies.
• Knowledge of South African housing policies and subsidies (e.g., FLISP) is advantageous.
• Excellent community engagement, communication, and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work effectively in challenging contexts and deliver projects on time and within budget.
• A passion for social impact and improving living conditions for underserved communities in **North West**.
• Experience with local building regulations in **Mahikeng** is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, along with the immense satisfaction of contributing to meaningful social development. You will work within a mission-driven organization that values teamwork and innovation in addressing housing challenges. Opportunities for professional growth and development in the social housing sector are available. This hybrid role allows for flexibility while ensuring vital on-site engagement and collaboration in **Mahikeng**. Join us in building better futures through thoughtful and accessible architecture in the **North West**.