Lead Urban Designer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Retirement annuity

Medical aid

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Mossel Bay seeks a Lead Urban Designer to spearhead innovative, sustainable urban environments. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, engage with clients and government bodies, and shape development proposals for coastal communities.

The role requires a Master’s degree and 10+ years of progressive experience, with strong design software skills and knowledge of South African planning frameworks.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in urban design and planning with leadership.
• Extensive knowledge of urban design principles, placemaking, spatial analysis, and sustainable urban development.
• Ability to manage complex urban design projects from concept to implementation.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS, and visualization tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of master plans and urban design strategies for diverse projects.
• Mentor and manage a team of urban designers and planners.
• Engage with clients, government agencies, community groups, and stakeholders.
• Produce master plans, design guidelines, streetscape designs, and visual impact assessments.
• Ensure designs respond to environmental, social, and economic contexts, promoting sustainability.
• Prepare presentations, reports, and graphics to communicate design proposals.
• Coordinate with architects, engineers, and landscape architects for integrated outcomes.
• Stay updated on best practices, legislation, and coastal urban design trends.
• Contribute to business development via proposals and client relationships.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Public speaking

Team mentoring

Education

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

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a prestigious urban planning and design consultancy with a strong presence in Mossel Bay, Western Cape. They are seeking an accomplished Lead Urban Designer to spearhead the development of innovative and sustainable urban environments. This pivotal role involves leading multidisciplinary teams, engaging with stakeholders, and shaping the future physical landscape of communities. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of urban design principles, spatial planning, public realm design, and the complexities of urban development processes. This position is based in our beautiful Mossel Bay office, offering the chance to influence significant projects within a region known for its unique coastal character and growth potential.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of comprehensive urban design strategies and master plans for diverse projects, including new developments, revitalizations, and precinct plans.
• Manage and mentor a team of urban designers and planners, fostering a collaborative and high-performance work environment.
• Engage effectively with clients, government agencies, community groups, and other stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Produce high-quality urban design documentation, including master plans, design guidelines, streetscape designs, and visual impact assessments.
• Ensure designs respond to environmental, social, and economic contexts, promoting sustainability and resilience.
• Oversee the preparation of presentations, reports, and graphics to effectively communicate design proposals.
• Liaise with architects, engineers, and landscape architects to ensure integrated and cohesive project outcomes.
• Stay abreast of national and international best practices, innovative urban design concepts, and relevant legislation.
• Contribute to business development initiatives, including proposal writing and client relationship management.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with demonstrated leadership experience.
• Extensive knowledge of urban design principles, placemaking, spatial analysis, and sustainable urban development.
• Proven ability to manage complex urban design projects from concept to implementation.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS) and visualization tools.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with experience in public consultations.
• Strong understanding of the South African planning and regulatory framework.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience in coastal urban environments is a plus.

Benefits

Our client offers an attractive salary package, reflecting the seniority and responsibility of this role.

• Benefits include a retirement annuity, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and performance-related bonuses.
• You will have the opportunity to work on impactful and transformative projects within the scenic Western Cape.
• We provide excellent professional development opportunities, including support for further training and conference attendance.
• The firm culture is collaborative and encourages innovation.
• Working in Mossel Bay offers a unique lifestyle balance.
• Opportunities for career progression into senior management roles are available for high-performing individuals.