Lead Urban Architect

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus structure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an innovative Lead Urban Architect to spearhead transformational urban development projects in Centurion and surrounding areas. The role demands strategic leadership, a strong portfolio in large-scale urban design, and collaboration with stakeholders to shape sustainable urban spaces.

Responsibilities include leading design teams, developing master plans, and guiding projects from inception to completion, with a focus on public spaces and mixed-use developments.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field.
• 10+ years progressive experience in urban design and planning.
• Minimum 3 years in a leadership role.
• Proven track record leading large-scale urban projects.
• Strong design, analytical, and communication abilities.
• In-depth knowledge of SA planning legislation and development frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and planning of complex urban development projects from inception to completion.
• Develop master plans, concept designs, and feasibility studies for urban renewal and new developments.
• Collaborate with municipal authorities, developers, engineers, and community groups for alignment and buy-in.
• Oversee design reviews, ensuring quality, innovation, and sustainability.
• Mentor and manage a team of urban planners and architects.
• Prepare and present proposals, reports, and presentations to clients and public bodies.
• Keep abreast of urban planning policies, zoning regulations, and best practices.

Skills

Leadership

Urban design

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Presentation skills

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design/Urban Planning/Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

GIS

SketchUp

Lumion

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent architectural consultancy based in Centurion, Gauteng , is looking for an innovative and experienced Lead Urban Architect to spearhead transformative urban development projects. This senior position requires a visionary leader with a passion for sustainable city planning and community integration. You will be responsible for leading design teams, developing master plans, and engaging with stakeholders to shape the future of urban landscapes in Centurion and surrounding areas. The ideal candidate will have a strong portfolio demonstrating success in large-scale urban design, mixed-use developments, and public spaces. This is a critical role demanding strategic thinking, exceptional design sensibility, and strong leadership qualities to drive innovative urban solutions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and planning of complex urban development projects from inception to completion.
• Develop comprehensive master plans, concept designs, and feasibility studies for urban renewal and new developments.
• Collaborate closely with municipal authorities, developers, engineers, and community groups to ensure project alignment and public buy-in.
• Oversee design review processes, ensuring quality, innovation, and adherence to sustainability principles.
• Manage and mentor a team of urban planners and architects, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Prepare and present design proposals, reports, and presentations to clients and public bodies.
• Stay abreast of urban planning policies, zoning regulations, and best practices in sustainable urban design.
• Conduct site analyses and urban diagnostics to identify opportunities and challenges for development in Centurion .

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with at least 3 years in a leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience in leading large-scale urban planning and mixed-use development projects.
• Proficiency in urban design software such as AutoCAD, GIS, SketchUp, Lumion, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• In-depth knowledge of South African planning legislation and development frameworks.
• Exceptional design, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and presentation abilities.
• Proven experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation.
• Ability to lead and inspire design teams in a dedicated office environment in Centurion .

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial annual bonus structure, and an excellent benefits program. You will have the opportunity to work on flagship projects that will significantly shape the urban fabric of Gauteng . Professional development, continuous learning, and career progression are strongly supported. This role provides a challenging yet rewarding career path within a respected firm that values innovation and urban stewardship.