Lead Urban Designer

Placements24; Randburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,400,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Pension

Medical aid

Job summary

Placements24 invites a highly experienced Lead Urban Designer to shape master plans and public realm designs in Gauteng. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, guiding concepts through to implementation, while working in a hybrid model that blends office collaboration with remote flexibility.

The role requires a strategic thinker with a strong portfolio in urban design leadership, a deep grasp of planning principles, and a passion for resilient, inclusive cities across Randburg and beyond.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.
• 8+ years of professional urban design experience with leadership exposure.
• Proven leadership of complex urban planning and design projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization and delivery of large-scale urban design projects and master plans.
• Mentor urban design teams and foster a collaborative, high-performance culture.
• Conduct urban analysis, feasibility studies, and inform design strategies.
• Prepare proposals, master plans, and visualisations for clients and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and community groups; manage budgets and timelines.

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture or related field

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Rhino

GIS

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious urban planning and design consultancy based in Randburg, Gauteng, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Lead Urban Designer. This hybrid role offers the opportunity to shape the future of urban environments through innovative and sustainable design strategies, blending collaborative office work with remote flexibility. You will lead multidisciplinary teams in the development of master plans, urban regeneration projects, and public realm designs. We are looking for a strategic thinker with a proven track record in urban design leadership, a deep understanding of urban planning principles, and a passion for creating vibrant, resilient, and inclusive cities. This position is ideal for a candidate who can inspire teams, engage stakeholders, and translate complex urban challenges into compelling design solutions within the Gauteng region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the conceptualization, design development, and implementation of large-scale urban design projects and master plans. Manage and mentor urban design teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performance culture. Conduct urban analysis, research, and feasibility studies to inform design strategies. Develop comprehensive urban design guidelines, frameworks, and policies. Prepare and present design proposals, master plans, and visualisations to clients, public bodies, and stakeholders. Collaborate effectively with architects, landscape architects, engineers, and community groups. Ensure designs respond to social, economic, environmental, and cultural contexts. Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships. Stay abreast of global trends in urbanism, placemaking, and sustainable urban development. Champion best practices in urban design and contribute to the firm's reputation.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of professional experience in urban design, with a significant portion in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in leading complex urban planning and design projects from inception to completion.
• Strong understanding of urban morphology, spatial planning, landscape integration, and public realm design.
• Proficiency in relevant design software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, GIS, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Exceptional presentation, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams in a Hybrid work environment.
• Knowledge of South African planning legislation and development processes.
• A strong portfolio showcasing significant urban design projects is essential.

Benefits

• The client offers a highly competitive salary and benefits package.
• The Hybrid work model provides flexibility and a healthy work-life balance.
• Opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and engagement with cutting-edge urban design challenges.
• Be part of a respected firm shaping the urban landscape of Gauteng and beyond.
• Contribute to impactful projects that create lasting positive change in communities.
• Pension and medical aid benefits included.