Lead Urban Designer - Mixed-Use Developments

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

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Professional development

Industry conferences

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Urban Designer to spearhead its urban design practice in Stellenbosch. You will lead large-scale mixed-use developments, regeneration projects and master planning, guiding a team of designers and collaborating with architects, landscape architects and planners.

You will shape design concepts, engage with communities and authorities, and deliver sustainable, contextually sensitive urban environments in a region known for heritage and landscape.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture or related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive urban design and master planning experience.
• Proven experience leading complex mixed-use developments and urban regeneration.
• Strong understanding of urban planning principles, placemaking, and public realm design.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design process for urban design and master planning projects from concept to implementation.
• Develop urban design frameworks, master plans and public realm strategies for mixed-use and regeneration.
• Collaborate with architects, landscape architects, engineers and planners to deliver integrated solutions.
• Conduct site analysis, context studies and stakeholder engagement to inform design.
• Prepare high-quality visualisations, reports and client/presentation materials.
• Mentor and manage junior urban designers and support team development.
• Ensure designs respond to local context, sustainability and community needs.
• Liaise with municipal planning departments to navigate approvals.
• Stay updated on trends, best practices and innovative approaches in urban design.

Skills

Communication

Negotiation

Stakeholder engagement

Visualization

Presentation

Education

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

10+ years in urban design/master planning

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Rhino

Adobe Creative Suite

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading multidisciplinary design consultancy, is seeking an experienced and visionary Lead Urban Designer to spearhead their growing urban design practice in Stellenbosch, Western Cape . This senior role is responsible for shaping the conceptualization, design, and delivery of large-scale mixed-use developments, urban regeneration projects, and strategic master plans. You will lead a team of talented designers, collaborate closely with architects, landscape architects, and planners, and engage with clients, municipalities, and stakeholders to create sustainable, vibrant, and contextually sensitive urban environments. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of urban planning principles, placemaking, public realm design, and sustainable development practices. This is a prime opportunity to influence the urban fabric of significant projects and drive design excellence in a region renowned for its heritage and landscape.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design process for urban design and master planning projects, from initial concept to detailed design and implementation support. Develop comprehensive urban design frameworks, master plans, and public realm strategies for mixed-use developments and regeneration projects. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including architects, landscape architects, engineers, and planners, to ensure integrated design solutions. Conduct site analysis, context studies, and stakeholder engagement processes to inform design development. Prepare high-quality visualisations, design reports, and presentations for clients, regulatory authorities, and public consultations. Mentor and manage junior urban designers and contribute to the professional development of the team. Ensure that designs respond to local context, sustainability principles, and community needs. Liaise with municipal planning departments and other regulatory bodies to navigate planning approvals. Stay abreast of current trends, best practices, and innovative approaches in urban design and sustainable development. Champion design quality and excellence throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

A Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related discipline. Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban design and master planning, with a strong portfolio of completed projects. Proven experience leading complex mixed-use developments and urban regeneration projects. Excellent understanding of urban planning principles, spatial analysis, placemaking, and public realm design. Proficiency in urban design software, including AutoCAD, SketchUp, Rhino, Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS applications. Strong visualization and presentation skills. Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement abilities. Demonstrated ability to lead and mentor design teams effectively. Knowledge of South African planning legislation and approval processes is highly desirable. A passion for creating high-quality, sustainable, and socially responsible urban environments.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive executive salary package, including performance-related bonuses and comprehensive benefits such as medical aid and retirement fund contributions. You will be part of a dynamic and collaborative studio environment in the beautiful city of Stellenbosch, Western Cape . Opportunities for professional development, attending industry conferences, and taking on leadership roles are abundant. Our client is committed to fostering a culture of creativity and innovation, providing a platform for you to make a significant impact on the built environment and contribute to the future development of our cities.