Conservation Architect

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary based on experience

Travel opportunities for site visits

Job summary

Placements24 in Polokwane is seeking a Conservation Architect to safeguard historic buildings and lead adaptive reuse projects. You will assess conditions, develop conservation strategies, and oversee restoration with strong knowledge of traditional materials and techniques.

The role combines design leadership with project management in a hybrid work setup, collaborating with heritage authorities and construction teams to deliver sensitive interventions.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture with post-graduate qualifications or significant heritage conservation experience.
• Minimum 7 years of architectural practice with strong heritage focus.
• Knowledge of historical building typologies, materials, and conservation methods.
• Familiarity with South Africa heritage legislation and policies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct surveys and condition assessments of historic buildings and heritage sites.
• Develop conservation management plans and restoration strategies.
• Oversee restoration and adaptive reuse projects for heritage buildings.
• Ensure work adheres to national and international heritage guidelines.
• Mentor junior staff and liaise with heritage bodies and authorities.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Project management

Surveying & assessment

Architectural design

Communication

Research

Education

Professional degree in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialized architectural firm with a passion for heritage preservation and adaptive reuse, is seeking a dedicated Conservation Architect to join their esteemed practice in Polokwane. This role is crucial for safeguarding and revitalizing historic buildings and sites, ensuring their long-term preservation while integrating contemporary needs. You will be responsible for assessing the condition of heritage structures, developing conservation strategies, and overseeing restoration and adaptive reuse projects. This position requires a profound understanding of historical building techniques, materials, and conservation principles, alongside strong architectural design and project management skills. The successful candidate will work closely with heritage authorities, clients, and construction teams to deliver sensitive and successful interventions. This is a hybrid role, allowing for effective collaboration with teams in Polokwane and flexibility in work arrangements. We are looking for an architect who is deeply committed to the conservation of our built heritage.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed surveys and condition assessments of historic buildings and heritage sites.
• Develop conservation management plans, restoration strategies, and proposals for heritage structures.
• Design and oversee the implementation of restoration, repair, and adaptive reuse projects for heritage buildings.
• Ensure all conservation work adheres to national and international heritage guidelines and best practices.
• Prepare detailed drawings, specifications, and reports for conservation projects.
• Liaise with heritage bodies, local authorities, and stakeholders to obtain necessary approvals.
• Provide technical advice and expertise on historical materials, construction methods, and conservation techniques.
• Manage project timelines and budgets for conservation interventions.
• Research and stay updated on the latest advancements and legislation in heritage conservation.
• Mentor junior staff involved in heritage projects.

Requirements

• Professional degree in Architecture, with post-graduate qualifications or significant experience in heritage conservation.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in architectural practice, with a strong focus on heritage conservation and restoration projects.
• In-depth knowledge of historical building typologies, materials (e.g., stone, timber, traditional brickwork), and construction methods.
• Familiarity with heritage legislation, policies, and conservation philosophy in South Africa.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit) and drawing production.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to negotiate and liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects involving sensitive historical structures.
• Experience working with heritage consultants and local authorities.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and expertise.
• Hybrid work model providing flexibility and work-life balance in Polokwane.
• Opportunity to work on culturally significant and impactful heritage projects.
• Professional development opportunities and training in specialized conservation techniques.
• Collaborative work environment with a team of passionate heritage professionals.
• Contribution to the preservation and appreciation of South Africa's architectural heritage.
• Travel opportunities for site assessments and project monitoring.