Architect - Community & Social Housing Projects

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 550,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Professional development opportunities

Medical aid and retirement fund

Generous annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an Architect in Soweto to lead social housing and community infrastructure projects, from concept through construction documentation, and to engage residents and stakeholders throughout the process.

The role requires at least 5 years in architectural practice, proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD and SketchUp, and SACAP registration is preferred. A focus on sustainable, affordable housing and collaboration with engineers and planners in Gauteng is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture is required.
• Master’s degree in Urban Design/Community Planning is advantageous.
• SACAP registration preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years in architectural practice with social housing experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for social housing and community projects from concept to completion.
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to understand needs and incorporate feedback.
• Develop drawings, models, and presentations communicating design intent.
• Ensure designs are cost-effective, sustainable and meet social housing requirements.
• Collaborate with engineers, urban planners and other consultants for integrated solutions.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations and accessibility standards in Gauteng.
• Manage project documentation including specifications and tender packages.
• Conduct site visits and construction supervision to ensure quality.
• Advocate for innovative and resilient design solutions in the social housing sector.
• Contribute to project proposals and grant applications.

Skills

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Architecture

Master's degree in Urban Design or Community Planning (advantageous)

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client is dedicated to improving communities through thoughtful design and is looking for a passionate Architect to focus on social housing and community infrastructure projects in Soweto, Gauteng, ZA . This role offers the chance to make a profound social impact by designing safe, sustainable, and inspiring living environments for residents. You will be involved in all phases of design, from initial community consultation and concept development to the finalization of construction documentation. The ideal candidate possesses a strong commitment to social responsibility, an understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities within community-focused developments, and proficiency in architectural design software. We seek an individual who can collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders, including community members, NGOs, and government bodies, to create projects that truly serve their purpose. This position is perfect for an architect who values social impact and wants to contribute meaningfully to the development and upliftment of communities in Soweto and the wider Gauteng region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for social housing and community-focused projects, from concept to completion.
• Engage with community members and stakeholders to understand needs and incorporate feedback into designs.
• Develop architectural drawings, models, and presentations that clearly communicate design intent.
• Ensure designs are cost-effective, sustainable, and meet the specific requirements of social housing initiatives.
• Collaborate with engineers, urban planners, and other consultants to deliver integrated solutions.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant building codes, regulations, and accessibility standards in Gauteng, ZA .
• Manage project documentation, including specifications and tender packages.
• Conduct site visits and construction supervision to ensure quality and adherence to design.
• Advocate for innovative and resilient design solutions within the social housing sector.
• Contribute to the development of project proposals and grant applications.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture.
• A Master's degree or specialization in Urban Design or Community Planning is advantageous.
• Professional registration with SACAP is preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in architectural practice, with demonstrable experience in social housing or community development projects.
• Proficiency in architectural software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp.
• Strong understanding of sustainable design principles and affordable housing typologies.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and community engagement skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders and manage differing perspectives.
• Experience with South African building codes and construction practices.
• A portfolio showcasing impactful community-oriented architectural work.
• Empathy and a genuine passion for social impact through design.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and commitment to social impact.
• Opportunity to work on meaningful projects that directly benefit communities in Soweto .
• Hybrid work model offering a balance of office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Professional development opportunities focused on community architecture.
• Contribution to a mission-driven organization with a strong social ethos.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Chance to build lasting relationships within the community development sector.
• Exposure to innovative approaches in social housing design.