Lead Building Architect

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development allowances

Generous annual leave

International collaboration opportunIt

—

Job summary

Placements24 client, an architectural consultancy in Gauteng, seeks a seasoned Lead Building Architect to lead design and execution of large commercial and residential developments in Tembisa. You will be the primary client contact, translating visions into sustainable, aesthetically striking structures while guiding a design team.

The role demands a strong leadership track record, deep knowledge of construction practices, and proficiency in BIM (Revit), AutoCAD, and 3D modeling.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent.
• 10+ years in architectural practice, with at least 5 years in lead/senior role.
• Experience managing complex building projects (commercial, residential, institutional).
• Proficiency in BIM software (Revit), AutoCAD, and 3D modeling tools.
• In-depth knowledge of SA building regulations, planning laws, and construction processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and client management.
• Ability to manage project teams and complex workflows.
• A strong portfolio of innovative design and successful projects is mandatory.
• Professional registration with SACAP is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all phases of architectural design for large-scale building projects.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects and designers.
• Engage directly with clients to understand requirements and present design proposals.
• Develop detailed architectural plans, specifications, and construction documents.
• Liaise with structural engineers, MEP consultants, urban planners, and contractors.
• Conduct site inspections and quality control checks during construction.
• Ensure designs comply with local codes, SANS, and environmental regulations.
• Manage project budgets and timelines, identify risks and mitigation strategies.
• Stay updated on architectural trends, technologies, and sustainable practices.

Skills

Leadership

Client management

Communication

Negotiation

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

3D modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent architectural consultancy based in Tembisa, Gauteng , is actively searching for a seasoned Lead Building Architect. This is a crucial role responsible for overseeing the architectural design and execution of significant commercial and residential developments. You will be the primary point of contact for clients on major projects, translating their visions into tangible, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing structures. The ideal candidate possesses strong leadership qualities, a deep understanding of construction practices, and a passion for creating impactful spaces. This position requires a strategic thinker who can manage complex project lifecycles, ensuring both design integrity and operational efficiency. You will work within a collaborative team environment and contribute to the firm's reputation for excellence in architectural design and project management. Experience with large-scale urban planning projects will be advantageous.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all phases of architectural design, from initial concept development to final handover, for large-scale building projects.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects and designers, ensuring high-quality output and adherence to project timelines.
• Engage directly with clients to understand their requirements, provide expert advice, and present design proposals.
• Develop detailed architectural plans, specifications, and construction documents, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Liaise with structural engineers, MEP consultants, urban planners, and contractors to ensure seamless project integration.
• Conduct rigorous site inspections and quality control checks throughout the construction phase.
• Ensure all designs comply with local building codes, South African National Standards (SANS), and environmental regulations.
• Manage project budgets and timelines, identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies.
• Stay abreast of the latest architectural trends, technologies, and sustainable design practices.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or equivalent professional qualification.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural practice, with at least 5 years in a lead or senior role.
• Proven experience in managing complex building projects, including commercial, residential, and institutional typologies.
• Exceptional proficiency in BIM software (Revit), AutoCAD, and 3D modeling tools.
• In-depth knowledge of South African building regulations, planning laws, and construction processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage project teams and complex project workflows.
• A strong portfolio showcasing innovative design and successful project completion is mandatory.
• Professional registration with SACAP is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience, including performance-based incentives. Benefits include comprehensive medical aid, a retirement fund, professional development allowances, and opportunities to work on landmark projects in Tembisa, Gauteng and beyond.
• A strong emphasis is placed on continuous learning and career advancement.
• The firm also promotes a healthy work-life balance with generous annual leave.
• Opportunities for international collaboration may arise for exceptional candidates.