Lead Urban Architect

Placements24; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private health insurance

Retirement fund

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a Johannesburg-based architectural firm to recruit a Lead Urban Architect. This role steers transformation of urban landscapes, developing master plans while leading design teams in large-scale projects.

You will work with city officials, developers and communities to ensure policy alignment and public benefit. The ideal candidate brings a decade of urban design expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for sustainable, people-centric environments in the South

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or related field.
• 10+ years of progressive urban architecture and design experience.
• At least 3 years in a leadership or senior role.
• Proven track record delivering large-scale urban development projects.
• Strong knowledge of urban design theory, planning principles and best practices.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Solid understanding of SA urban planning legislation and environmental rules.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of urban master plans and architectural designs for city-wide projects.
• Manage and mentor architects, urban designers, and planners.
• Collaborate with city officials, developers, and communities to align with policy and public needs.
• Oversee design from concept through construction documentation, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and impact assessments for new developments.
• Present design proposals and project updates to clients and regulators.
• Champion sustainable, resilient design across all outputs.
• Ensure adherence to building codes, zoning and environmental standards in Johannesburg and Gauteng.

Skills

Leadership

Architectural design

Urban planning

Project management

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and forward-thinking architectural firm based in the vibrant city of **Johannesburg**, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Urban Architect to spearhead transformative urban development projects. This pivotal role offers the opportunity to shape the future of urban landscapes, integrating sustainable design principles with innovative community planning. You will be instrumental in developing master plans, overseeing design teams, and ensuring the successful execution of large-scale urban projects that enhance livability and economic vitality. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of South African urban contexts and a passion for creating resilient, people-centric environments. This position is based in **Johannesburg, Gauteng**, and involves a hybrid work model, allowing for a blend of collaborative office time and flexible remote work.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of comprehensive urban master plans and architectural designs for major city-wide projects.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects, urban designers, and planners, fostering a culture of excellence and innovation.
• Collaborate with city officials, stakeholders, developers, and community groups to ensure project alignment with urban policy and public needs.
• Oversee the entire design process from initial concept through to detailed construction documentation, ensuring quality and compliance.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and impact assessments for new urban development initiatives.
• Present design proposals and project updates to clients, regulatory bodies, and the public.
• Champion sustainable and resilient design practices within all urban planning and architectural outputs.
• Ensure all projects adhere to relevant building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental standards in **Johannesburg** and surrounding **Gauteng** regions.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban architecture and design, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior role.
• Proven track record of successfully leading and delivering complex, large-scale urban development projects.
• In-depth knowledge of urban design theory, planning principles, and architectural best practices.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of South African urban planning legislation and environmental regulations.
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines.
• Experience working with diverse stakeholder groups and navigating public consultation processes.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary package commensurate with experience, alongside a comprehensive benefits program. This includes private health insurance, a generous retirement fund contribution, and opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. You will be part of a supportive and collaborative work environment that values creativity and innovation. Enjoy the flexibility of a hybrid work model, working from our modern **Johannesburg** office and remotely. This is a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on the urban fabric of **Gauteng** and beyond.