Associate

dhk Architects; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Job summary

dhkArchitects in Johannesburg, South Africa, seeks an experienced Lead Architect/Associate to lead large-scale projects from concept to construction. The role requires design excellence, technical depth, and a proven record managing complex assignments across sectors.

You will coordinate across disciplines, prepare construction documentation to high standards, lead design teams, and ensure projects align with the studio's vision. Fluent English and willingness to travel support the role.

Qualifications

• SACAP-registered professional architect with post-qualification registration.
• 10–15 years post-qualification experience in architectural practice.
• Strong academic background with recognised architectural qualifications.

Responsibilities

• Develop design concepts and translate them into detailed and deliverable project solutions.
• Lead architectural projects from initiation through construction and closeout.
• Coordinate across disciplines, clients, and consultants to ensure successful project delivery.
• Prepare and manage construction documentation and detailing to the highest standard.
• Manage design teams and ensure alignment with the firm's vision and standards.
• Apply deep technical knowledge and creative thinking to complex design challenges.
• Oversee quality assurance of documentation and site execution standards.

Skills

Leadership

Conceptual design

Project management

Collaborative skills

Education

SACAP-registered Professional Architect

Architectural degree (Bachelors/Masters)

Tools

Revit

BIM/CDE

Enscape

Adobe Creative Cloud

MS Office

Job description

Johannesburg, South Africa | Posted on 08/14/2026

We're seekingan experienced and highly skilled Lead Architect/ Associate to lead large-scaleprojects from concept to construction. This role demands exceptional designtalent, an advanced technical understanding, and proven experience in managingcomplex projects through all phases. You will work on iconic urban developmentsthat reflect dhk's leading design ethos, playing a central role in the creativeand executional aspects of major projects.

WhatYou'll Do

• Develop design concepts and translate theminto detailed and deliverable project solutions.
• Lead architectural projects from initiationthrough construction and closeout.
• Coordinate across disciplines, clients, andconsultants to ensure successful project delivery.
• Prepare and manage construction documentationand detailing to the highest standard.
• Manage design teams and ensure alignment withdhk's vision and standards.
• Apply deep technical knowledge and creativethinking to complex design challenges.
  
• Oversee quality assurance of documentation andsite execution standards.
  

Requirements

Qualifications& Experience

• SACAP-registered ProfessionalArchitect.
• 10-15 years'post-qualification experience in architectural practice.
• Strong academic background withrecognised architectural qualifications.
• Demonstrated track record ofmanaging and delivering large, complex projects across sectors includingmixed-use, commercial, residential, hospitality, civic and education.

TechnicalSkills

• Expert proficiency in Revit andBIM Common Data Environment (CDE). Revit assessment required.
• In-depth knowledge ofconstruction documentation and detailing.
• Strong understanding ofcollaboration and modelling techniques and Revit best practices.
• Working knowledge of Enscape,Adobe Creative Cloud Suite and Microsoft Office tools.
• Comprehensive understanding ofbuilding systems, regulations, and construction methodologies.
• Advanced skills in interpretingtechnical and commercial project feasibility.

KeyAttributes

• Visionary designer with refinedspatial and conceptual design sensibility.
• Strong leadership and projectmanagement abilities.
• Detail-oriented with rigorousstandards for execution and delivery.
• Skilled communicator acrossinternal and external teams.
• Adaptable and proactive withexcellent time and resource management.
  

OtherRequirements

• Fluent in English (spoken andwritten)
• Willingness to travel based onproject needs
  
• A competitive salary commensuratewith experience and expertise.
• Exposure to iconic urban andarchitectural projects across the continent.
• Career development opportunitiesin a progressive, design-led environment.
  
• A studio culture grounded ininnovation, excellence, and collaboration.
  

About dhkArchitects

dhkArchitects is one of the largest and leading design-led architectural studiosin Africa. Our strength comes from a unique blend of creative design thinking,technical capability, implementation expertise and strategic vision.

Ourreputation is built not only on landmark architecture but also on ourlongstanding commitment to designing integrated environments. We believearchitecture should enhance and shape its context - a philosophy rooted inurban design. At dhk, we foster a culture of progressive design,high-performance, and collaboration, where urban thinking drives innovation inbuilt form.

We supportpersonal and professional growth through mentorship, development initiatives,and a studio environment that encourages experimentation, leadership, andambition.