Lead Building Systems Architect

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunities

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Challenging projects

Collaborative environment

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town, Western Cape, seeks a Lead Building Systems Architect to oversee the design and integration of MEP and IT infrastructure within architectural projects.

You will lead a team of specialists, collaborate with project managers, engineers and clients, ensure codes compliance, sustainability and performance, and provide technical leadership throughout design and construction, with a hybrid work model.

Qualifications

• Professional Architect or Engineer registration (e.g., Pr.Arch, Pr.Eng) with a recognized professional body.
• Master's degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive architectural design experience focused on building systems.
• Proven ability to lead design teams and manage complex projects.
• Expert knowledge of MEP, fire safety, IT, and building automation systems.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, BIM and simulation tools.
• Strong understanding of South African building codes and regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
• Experience with sustainable design principles (Green Star) is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and integration of complex building systems (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, IT).
• Oversee creation of detailed system specifications, drawings, and BIM models.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, project managers, and construction professionals.
• Ensure compliance with codes, standards, and regulations.
• Conduct feasibility studies and performance analyses for proposed systems.
• Review and approve system designs submitted by consultants and contractors.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior architects and system designers.
• Manage project timelines and budgets related to building systems.
• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in sustainable design.
• Liaise with clients to understand requirements and present design solutions.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues during design and construction.
• Contribute to development of firm-wide standards and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Team leadership

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Mechanical/Electrical Engineering

Professional registration (Pr.Arch, Pr.Eng)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM

Simulation tools

Job description

About the Role

About the Role Our client is seeking a highly experienced and innovative Lead Building Systems Architect to join their prestigious architectural firm in Cape Town, Western Cape. This role is crucial in overseeing the design and integration of sophisticated building systems, ensuring optimal performance, sustainability, and functionality of architectural projects. You will lead a team of specialists, collaborate closely with project managers, engineers, and clients, and provide expert guidance throughout the design and construction phases. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), fire protection, and IT infrastructure systems within the context of modern architectural design. This position offers a blend of remote flexibility and in-office collaboration, allowing for dynamic project engagement. You will be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge building solutions that meet the evolving needs of urban environments. Your expertise will be vital in shaping the future of our built environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and integration of complex building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and IT infrastructure.


• Oversee the creation of detailed system specifications, drawings, and BIM models.


• Collaborate with multidisciplinary design teams, project managers, and construction professionals.


• Ensure building systems comply with relevant codes, standards, and regulations.


• Conduct feasibility studies and performance analyses for proposed systems.


• Review and approve system designs submitted by consultants and contractors.


• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior architects and system designers.


• Manage project timelines and budgets related to building systems.


• Stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in sustainable building design and systems integration.


• Liaise with clients to understand their requirements and present design solutions.


• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues during design and construction.


• Contribute to the development of firm-wide standards and best practices for building systems design.

Requirements

• Professional Architect or Engineer registration (e.g., Pr.Arch, Pr.Eng) with a recognized professional body.


• Master's degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.


• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design, with a significant focus on building systems.


• Demonstrated experience in leading design teams and managing complex projects.


• Expert knowledge of MEP, fire safety, IT, and building automation systems.


• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, BIM) and simulation tools.


• Strong understanding of South African building codes and regulations.


• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.


• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.


• Experience with sustainable design principles (e.g., Green Star) is highly desirable.


• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
  
• Proven ability to work effectively in both team and independent settings.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.


• Performance-based bonus opportunities.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.


• Generous annual leave allowance.


• Opportunities for professional development and continuing education.


• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.


• Involvement in high-profile and challenging projects.


• Collaborative and supportive work environment.


• Relocation assistance may be considered for exceptional candidates.