Conservation Architect - Heritage Building Restoration

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary reflecting expert

Flexible remote options

Professional development support

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Conservation Architect to lead heritage restoration and adaptive reuse projects in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. You will apply deep knowledge of traditional materials, conservation methods, and regulatory frameworks to preserve South Africa's built heritage.

The role requires a strong portfolio, SACAP registration, and proficiency with AutoCAD and Revit. You will collaborate with authorities, owners, and consultants to deliver compliant, respectful conservation solutions.

Qualifications

• Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch).
• Postgraduate specialization or significant experience in Architectural Conservation.
• Professional registration with SACAP.
• Membership with ICOMOS or Heritage Western Cape is advantageous.
• 7–9 years of experience, with at least 5 years in heritage projects.
• Strong knowledge of historical materials and conservation methods.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit for documentation and drawings.
• Excellent research, analytical and report-writing abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead assessment, documentation and conservation planning for heritage buildings and sites.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans and detailed specs.
• Conduct in-depth research into historical context, materials and construction.
• Prepare heritage impact assessments and conservation statements for submissions.
• Oversee restoration works ensuring adherence to heritage principles.
• Liaise with authorities, owners, clients and consultants.
• Advise on adaptive reuse proposals balancing conservation with function.
• Develop presentations and reports for clients and stakeholders in Mossel Bay.
• Stay updated with international best practices in heritage conservation.

Skills

Heritage conservation expertise

Research & analysis

Communication & report-writing

Project leadership

Education

B.Arch or M.Arch

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a specialist heritage consultancy dedicated to preserving South Africa's architectural legacy, is seeking a passionate and expert Conservation Architect for a key role based in or serving the Mossel Bay, Western Cape region. This unique position focuses on the sensitive restoration, adaptive reuse, and conservation of historically significant buildings and sites. You will lead projects that require a deep understanding of traditional materials, building techniques, and heritage legislation. The firm works across diverse historical contexts, and this role provides an exceptional opportunity to contribute meaningfully to the preservation of cultural heritage in the beautiful Western Cape . The ideal candidate possesses a refined aesthetic sense, meticulous research skills, and a proven ability to navigate the complexities of heritage conservation projects in areas like Mossel Bay .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the assessment, documentation, and conservation planning for heritage buildings and sites.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans, and detailed specifications using appropriate materials and techniques.
• Conduct in-depth research into the historical context, construction methods, and materials of heritage structures.
• Prepare heritage impact assessments and conservation statements for regulatory submissions.
• Oversee the execution of restoration and conservation works, ensuring adherence to heritage principles and conservation best practices.
• Liaise with heritage authorities, property owners, clients, and specialist consultants (e.g., archaeologists, materials scientists).
• Advise on adaptive reuse proposals for heritage buildings, balancing conservation needs with functional requirements.
• Develop presentations and reports for clients and stakeholders regarding heritage projects in Mossel Bay .
• Stay current with international best practices and advancements in heritage conservation and sustainable heritage management.

Requirements

• Professional degree in Architecture (B.Arch or M.Arch).
• Postgraduate specialization or significant documented experience in Architectural Conservation is essential.
• Professional registration with SACAP.
• Membership or affiliation with bodies like ICOMOS or Heritage Western Cape is advantageous.
• A minimum of 7-9 years of experience, with at least 5 years specifically focused on heritage conservation projects.
• Demonstrated portfolio of successful heritage restoration and conservation projects.
• Expert knowledge of historical building materials, construction techniques, and conservation methodologies.
• Proficiency in architectural documentation software (AutoCAD, Revit) and graphic presentation tools.
• Strong understanding of heritage legislation, policies, and assessment procedures in South Africa and the Western Cape .
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional communication and report-writing abilities, with a passion for heritage preservation in regions like Mossel Bay .

Benefits

• Competitive salary reflecting specialist expertise in conservation architecture.
• Opportunity to work on culturally significant and historically important projects.
• Support for ongoing professional development and specialized training in heritage conservation.
• Contribution to medical aid and retirement fund.
• Flexible working arrangements, including remote options, to support work-life balance.
• Collaborative environment with leading heritage professionals.
• The chance to make a lasting impact on the preservation of South Africa's built heritage, particularly within the Western Cape .