Commercial Design Architect - Mixed-Use Developments

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Annual leave

Professional development

Career growth

Office location in Nelspruit

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Commercial Design Architect for our client in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga. You will lead design for large-scale commercial and mixed-use developments, translating client visions into practical, market-ready architectures while coordinating with clients, consultants, and contractors.

The role requires a professional architectural degree, SACAP registration, and 7+ years in commercial projects, with proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and rendering.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture from a recognized institution and SACAP registration.
• Minimum 7 years post-graduate experience with a focus on commercial/mixed-use projects.
• Experience leading design teams and managing projects from concept to completion.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp and rendering tools.
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate development and market drivers.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for commercial and mixed-use development projects.
• Develop innovative and functional design concepts that meet client objectives and market demands.
• Prepare detailed drawings, plans, elevations, sections and specifications.
• Collaborate with clients, developers, engineers and consultants for project success.
• Conduct site visits and feasibility studies for potential projects in Nelspruit area.
• Manage design consultants and ensure cross-disciplinary coordination.
• Ensure designs comply with building codes, zoning, and accessibility standards.
• Present design proposals and progress to clients and stakeholders.
• Maintain relationships with clients and contribute to business development.
• Research current trends in commercial architecture and sustainable design.

Skills

Leadership of design teams

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Ability to work under pressure

Education

Professional architectural degree

SACAP registered architect

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Rendering software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious architectural practice with a strong portfolio in commercial and mixed-use developments, is looking for a talented and driven Commercial Design Architect to join their thriving office in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga . This role is crucial for leading the design aspects of large-scale commercial projects, including retail centers, office buildings, and integrated mixed-use complexes. You will be responsible for translating client visions into functional, aesthetically appealing, and commercially viable architectural solutions. The successful candidate will possess a keen eye for detail, a strong understanding of commercial market trends, and the ability to manage projects from initial concept through to construction documentation. This is an excellent opportunity for an architect passionate about shaping the built environment in Mpumalanga and contributing to significant urban regeneration projects. The role requires a proactive approach and a collaborative spirit within a team-oriented environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for commercial and mixed-use development projects.
• Develop innovative and functional design concepts that meet client objectives and market demands.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, plans, elevations, sections, and specifications.
• Collaborate closely with clients, developers, engineers, and other consultants to ensure project success.
• Conduct site visits and feasibility studies for potential new projects in the Nelspruit area.
• Manage design consultants and ensure coordination of all disciplines.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards.
• Present design proposals and project progress to clients and stakeholders.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and contribute to business development efforts.
• Research and apply current trends in commercial architecture and sustainable design practices.

Requirements

• Professional degree in Architecture from a recognized institution.
• Registered Professional Architect with SACAP.
• Minimum of 7 years of post-graduate experience in architectural practice, with a significant focus on commercial and mixed-use projects.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing projects from concept to completion.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and rendering programs.
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate development and market drivers.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Knowledge of local building regulations and planning processes in Mpumalanga .
• A portfolio demonstrating successful commercial and mixed-use architectural projects.
• Must be eligible to work in South Africa and reside in or be willing to relocate to Nelspruit .

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package based on experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive medical aid plan.
• Retirement annuity contributions.
• Generous annual leave allowance.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Exposure to significant and challenging commercial projects.
• A supportive and collaborative office culture.
• Potential for career growth into leadership roles.
• Convenient office location in Nelspruit .