Associate Architect

The Talent Barn; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architecture firm is seeking an experienced Design Lead to shape world-class hospitality spaces. You'll manage creative projects, mentor a design team, and ensure technical excellence from concept to construction. The ideal candidate has 8–10 years of architecture experience and a master's degree, with expertise in sustainable building practices and Autodesk BIM.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years of experience in architecture, with a proven portfolio.
• 2–3 years in a senior or leadership role.
• SACAP registered.

Responsibilities

• Turn client visions into compelling design concepts.
• Ensure technical accuracy and material research.
• Oversee documentation and delivery of projects.

Skills

Project Leadership

Creative Vision

Technical Excellence

Mentoring

Sustainable Practices

Education

Master's in Architecture or Architectural Technology

Tools

Autodesk BIM

Job description

The Role

This is not your average desk-bound architecture job. You’ll be shaping world-class hospitality spaces in some of the most breathtaking locations on the planet — from remote tented safari camps to cutting-edge eco-resorts. You’ll take ownership of design direction, technical excellence, and team leadership from concept to construction.

You’ll be:

• Leading projects that demand equal parts creative vision and ruthless attention to detail.
• Translating wild ideas into buildable, sustainable, and unforgettable guest experiences.
• Mentoring a high-performing design team and collaborating with clients who think big and dream bigger.
• Owning the design journey from first sketch to final handover, with a hands-on approach at every stage.

What You’ll Bring

• 8–10 years in architecture, with a portfolio that proves you can deliver complex hospitality projects (bonus points if you’ve worked on luxury lodges, tented camps, or five-star hotels).
• 2–3 years in a senior or leadership role — you know how to inspire a team and get things done under pressure.
• Master’s in Architecture or Architectural Technology, SACAP registered.
• Mastery of Autodesk BIM and deep technical construction knowledge.
• A love for materials, detailing, and sustainable building practices in challenging environments.
• The flexibility and resilience to work across time zones, climates, and cultures.

What You’ll Do

• Dream it: Turn a client’s vision into a concept that feels inevitable.
• Prove it: Back up design flair with technical rigour, material research, and construction know-how.
• Build it: Oversee documentation, tendering, procurement, and on-site delivery.
• Lead it: Manage and mentor a talented team of designers, technologists, and consultants.
• Protect it: Keep projects on time, on budget, and in line with the original design intent.