Commercial Design Architect

Placements24; Mtubatuba Local Municipality; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Generous leave

Wellness programs

Job summary

Placements24 in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal, is seeking a seasoned Commercial Design Architect to lead design conception and delivery of high-impact commercial and mixed-use projects. Based in Richards Bay, you will guide clients and teams through concept development, detailed plans, and regulatory compliance, while shaping urban regeneration initiatives.

You will mentor junior staff, ensure project timelines and budgets are met, and collaborate with clients, engineers, and contractors to

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture.
• Minimum 8 years post-graduate experience in commercial/mixed-use design.
• Proven experience leading design teams and managing multiple projects.
• Expertise in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and rendering tools (V-Ray, Lumion).
• Solid knowledge of SA building regulations for Richards Bay and KwaZulu-Natal.

Responsibilities

• Lead design conception and development for commercial and mixed-use projects.
• Produce architectural drawings, renderings, and client presentations.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning, and accessibility standards.
• Collaborate with clients, developers, engineers, and contractors.
• Manage project timelines and design-phase budgets.
• Conduct site analyses and feasibility studies.
• Oversee construction documentation, specs, and contract administration.
• Mentor junior architects and design staff.
• Stay informed about trends in commercial architecture and urban design.

Skills

Design team leadership

Client management

Communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Architecture degree

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

V-Ray

Lumion

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished architectural practice known for its impactful commercial developments, is seeking a seasoned Commercial Design Architect to join their esteemed team. Based in the strategic industrial hub of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , this role focuses on the design and delivery of innovative commercial and mixed-use projects. The ideal candidate will possess a strong portfolio showcasing expertise in commercial building typologies, urban planning integration, and client-focused design solutions. You will be responsible for leading design conception, developing detailed architectural plans, and ensuring projects meet aesthetic, functional, and regulatory requirements. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape the commercial landscape of Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal , and contribute to significant urban regeneration initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design development of commercial and mixed-use architectural projects.
• Produce high-quality architectural drawings, renderings, and presentations for client and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure designs comply with all relevant building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards.
• Collaborate effectively with clients, developers, engineers, and contractors throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage project timelines and budgets for design phases, ensuring efficient delivery.
• Conduct site analysis and feasibility studies for new commercial developments.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed construction documentation, specifications, and contract administration.
• Stay informed about current trends and innovations in commercial architecture and urban design.
• Mentor junior architects and design staff, fostering a collaborative team environment.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-graduate experience, with a strong emphasis on commercial and mixed-use project design.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Expertise in architectural design software, including AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and rendering software (e.g., V-Ray, Lumion).
• Comprehensive understanding of South African building regulations and planning policies relevant to Richards Bay and KwaZulu-Natal .
• Strong ability to develop creative design concepts and translate them into technically sound solutions.
• Excellent client management and communication skills, with the ability to present ideas persuasively.
• Demonstrated experience in navigating complex stakeholder environments and achieving consensus.
• Knowledge of sustainable design principles applicable to commercial buildings.

Benefits

• Our client provides a competitive salary package that reflects your extensive experience and expertise, along with performance-based incentives.
• Employees are offered a comprehensive medical aid plan, a robust retirement fund, and opportunities for continuous professional development, including workshops and advanced training.
• This role operates on a hybrid model, offering a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Additional benefits include generous leave allowances and access to wellness programs.
• Join a respected firm committed to excellence in commercial architecture in Richards Bay, KwaZulu-Natal .