Lead Architectural Designer - Innovative Urban Spaces

Placements24; Upington; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Professional development opportunities

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Upington, Northern Cape, seeks a Lead Architectural Designer to shape urban regeneration through public spaces and mixed-use developments. You will lead design direction, mentor staff, and collaborate across disciplines in a hybrid Upington office.

Bring a Master’s degree, 7+ years of urban-focused architectural experience, a strong portfolio, and expert skills in Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Design.
• 7+ years of progressive architectural design experience focused on urban projects and public spaces.
• Strong portfolio showcasing innovative design thinking and project execution.
• Proficiency in Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Solid understanding of urban planning, sustainability and placemaking.
• Leadership, communication and presentation skills with ability to manage multiple projects in a hybrid setting.
• Experience with local context in the Northern Cape is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization and development of urban architectural designs for public spaces, commercial and mixed-use projects.
• Develop design strategies responsive to site context, culture and sustainability.
• Produce design presentations including sketches, renderings and models.
• Collaborate with architects, urban planners, engineers and landscape architects.
• Mentor junior design staff and foster design excellence.
• Ensure designs meet building codes and planning regulations and are technically feasible.
• Oversee preparation of detailed design documentation for tender and construction.
• Stay informed on global trends in urban design and placemaking.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Presentation skills

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Design

Tools

Rhino

Grasshopper

Revit

AutoCAD

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an award-winning architectural firm dedicated to creating innovative and contextually relevant urban spaces, is seeking a Lead Architectural Designer to join their team in Upington, Northern Cape . This role is perfect for a visionary designer with a passion for urban regeneration, public spaces, and sustainable development. You will lead the design direction for key projects, inspiring creativity and ensuring the delivery of high-quality architectural solutions. The position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a dynamic balance between focused design work and collaborative engagement within our Upington office. You will have the opportunity to shape significant urban projects, contributing to the transformation and enhancement of the built environment in the Northern Cape and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of innovative architectural designs for urban projects, including public spaces, commercial buildings, and mixed-use developments.
• Develop design strategies that respond to site context, cultural significance, and sustainability principles.
• Produce compelling design presentations, including sketches, renderings, and physical models.
• Collaborate closely with architects, urban planners, engineers, and landscape architects to integrate design elements.
• Mentor and guide junior design staff, fostering a culture of design excellence and innovation.
• Ensure designs are technically feasible and comply with relevant building codes and planning regulations.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed design documentation for tender and construction.
• Stay abreast of global trends in urban design, architecture, and placemaking.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Design.
• A minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in architectural design, with a significant focus on urban projects and public spaces.
• A strong portfolio showcasing innovative design thinking and successful project execution.
• Proficiency in advanced design software such as Rhino, Grasshopper, Revit, AutoCAD, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Excellent understanding of urban planning principles, sustainability, and placemaking strategies.
• Strong leadership, communication, and presentation skills, capable of articulating design concepts effectively.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines within a hybrid work structure.
• Experience with local context and conditions in the Northern Cape is a plus.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and opportunities for professional development.
• The hybrid work model in Upington provides flexibility, while the collaborative office environment fosters creativity and growth.
• You will have the chance to work on high-impact projects that redefine urban landscapes and contribute to community well-being.
• Join a forward-thinking practice that values design excellence, innovation, and the shaping of meaningful built environments in the Northern Cape.