Lead Architect - Sustainable Infrastructure & Public Realm

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Advanced training opportunities

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks a visionary Lead Architect to spearhead sustainable infrastructure and public realm projects. You will lead multidisciplinary teams to shape parks, plazas, and streetscapes with climate‑resilient design.

You will collaborate with engineers, planners, and stakeholders to advance urban environments, ensuring regulatory compliance and high‑quality documentation for meaningful public spaces.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in architectural design or urban planning with public realm focus.
• Master's degree in architecture/urban design/landscape architecture.
• Professional registration with SAIA or relevant body.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary design teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural and urban design process for sustainable infrastructure and public realm projects in Upington, Northern Cape.
• Develop innovative concepts for parks, plazas, streetscapes, and green infrastructure systems.
• Integrate sustainable design principles, climate resilience strategies, and ecological considerations into all projects.
• Collaborate with engineers (civil, environmental), landscape architects, urban planners, and community stakeholders.
• Manage project teams, coordinate consultant efforts, and ensure high‑quality design documentation.
• Present design proposals and project visions to municipal authorities, clients, and the public.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant planning regulations, environmental standards, and public access requirements in South Africa.
• Conduct feasibility studies and contribute to master planning initiatives.
• Advocate for best practices in sustainable urban development and public space design.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Public realm / urban design knowledge

Sustainability / climate‑resilient urb

Education

Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or Landscape Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Suite

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking architectural and urban design consultancy, is seeking a visionary Lead Architect to spearhead projects focused on sustainable infrastructure and public realm development in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is crucial for shaping the future of urban environments, focusing on the integration of green infrastructure, resilient design strategies, and engaging public spaces. The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in urban design, landscape architecture principles, and a deep commitment to sustainability and community well-being. You will lead multidisciplinary teams in conceptualizing and delivering projects that enhance the quality of life and environmental performance of cities and towns. This is a unique opportunity to influence significant public projects and contribute to the sustainable development of the Northern Cape region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural and urban design process for sustainable infrastructure and public realm projects in Upington, Northern Cape .
• Develop innovative concepts for parks, plazas, streetscapes, and green infrastructure systems.
• Integrate sustainable design principles, climate resilience strategies, and ecological considerations into all projects.
• Collaborate with engineers (civil, environmental), landscape architects, urban planners, and community stakeholders.
• Manage project teams, coordinate consultant efforts, and ensure high‑quality design documentation.
• Present design proposals and project visions to municipal authorities, clients, and the public.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant planning regulations, environmental standards, and public access requirements in South Africa .
• Conduct feasibility studies and contribute to master planning initiatives.
• Advocate for best practices in sustainable urban development and public space design.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Design, or Landscape Architecture.
• Professional registration with SAIA or a relevant professional body.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in architectural design, urban planning, or landscape architecture, with a strong focus on public realm and infrastructure projects.
• Proven experience in leading complex design projects and multidisciplinary teams.
• Deep understanding of sustainable design, ecological systems, and climate‑resilient urbanism.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Suite, GIS).
• Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and presentation skills.
• Knowledge of South African planning and environmental regulations.
• Demonstrated ability to work on public‑sector or community‑focused projects.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package and comprehensive benefits, including medical aid and opportunities for advanced training in sustainable design and urban planning. This role provides the unique chance to shape meaningful public spaces and infrastructure in Upington and across the Northern Cape , contributing to a more sustainable and liveable future. Join a dedicated team committed to creating impactful and environmentally responsible urban environments.