Architectural Design Lead

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a prestigious architectural firm in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal to appoint an Architectural Design Lead. You will guide design teams, mentor architects, and translate complex briefs into innovative spaces.

The role requires a Master’s in Architecture, 10+ years of practice, SACAP registration, and a strong portfolio across typologies. Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite is essential. On-site with a competitive package.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent.
• 10+ years of professional architectural experience with design leadership.
• Registered Professional Architect with SACAP.
• Portfolio showing high-quality design across typologies.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong knowledge of South Africa building codes and construction processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead design direction and conceptual development from inception to completion.
• Mentor and manage a team of architects and designers.
• Develop design proposals, presentations and master plans.
• Ensure design quality, innovation and feasibility throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate with clients, consultants and regulatory bodies.
• Oversee design development and construction documentation.
• Conduct design reviews and provide feedback to teams.
• Stay current with trends and technologies and integrate them where appropriate.
• Uphold sustainability and best practices in design.
• Represent the firm in client meetings and public forums.

Skills

Design leadership

Architecture design

Mentoring juniors

Client communication

Project management

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Suite

SA building codes

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious architectural firm known for its award-winning designs and commitment to sustainable urban development, is seeking an experienced and visionary Architectural Design Lead for their office in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal . This leadership position is integral to the conceptualization and execution of innovative architectural projects. You will be responsible for guiding design teams, fostering creative excellence, and ensuring that projects meet the highest aesthetic and functional standards while adhering to client briefs and project constraints. We are looking for a dynamic individual with a proven track record in leading design processes, mentoring junior architects, and translating complex ideas into tangible, inspiring spaces. This role offers the chance to shape the built environment in a region experiencing significant growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction and conceptual development of architectural projects from inception to completion.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects and designers, fostering a collaborative and creative studio culture.
• Develop design proposals, presentations, and master plans for a diverse range of projects.
• Ensure design quality, innovation, and technical feasibility throughout the project lifecycle.
• Collaborate effectively with clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies to achieve project objectives.
• Oversee the preparation of design development and construction documentation.
• Conduct design reviews and provide constructive feedback to design teams.
• Stay current with architectural trends, materials, and technologies, and integrate them into designs where appropriate.
• Uphold the firm's commitment to sustainability and best practices in design.
• Represent the firm in client meetings and public forums related to design.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent qualification.
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in architectural practice, with significant experience in design leadership roles.
• Registered Professional Architect with SACAP.
• Demonstrated portfolio showcasing high-quality design work across various project typologies.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Strong understanding of building codes, regulations, and construction processes in South Africa.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• A passion for design excellence and innovation.
• Experience in the KwaZulu-Natal region is advantageous.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary package and benefits, including a performance-based bonus structure, medical aid, and retirement fund contributions.
• Our client invests in their employees' growth through continuous professional development programs and opportunities to work on high-profile projects.
• The position is based in our state-of-the-art offices in Richards Bay , providing a stimulating and professional working environment.

This is an excellent opportunity for a seasoned architect to advance their career in a vibrant coastal city.