Principal Architect - Educational & Research Facilities

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

medical aid

a generous retirement fund

professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Mahikeng, North West seeks a Principal Architect to lead transformative educational and research projects. You will guide concept development, design evolution, and delivery of campuses, laboratories, and academic buildings, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and stakeholder collaboration.

The role requires a proven track record in large institutional projects, high-level leadership, and expertise in pedagogical and laboratory design principles, BIM (Revit) and AutoCAD,

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or related field.
• Professional registration with SAIA or equivalent.
• Minimum 15 years of architectural experience with educational and research facilities.
• Proven leadership of large, institutional projects.
• Strong knowledge of pedagogical approaches, laboratory design, and technology integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design for educational and research facilities in Mahikeng, North West.
• Develop innovative and functional designs for learning, discovery, and engagement.
• Oversee creation of drawings, specifications, and documentation.
• Collaborate with university administrators, faculty, researchers, and consultants.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, accessibility standards, and facilities requirements.
• Manage project teams, budgets, and schedules from inception to completion.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and consultations.
• Champion sustainable design principles and mentor junior staff.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Presentation

Stakeholder management

Mentoring

Team leadership

BIM (Revit)

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Professional registration with SAIA

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished architectural practice with a strong portfolio in educational and research institutions, is seeking a highly experienced Principal Architect to lead transformative projects in Mahikeng, North West . This senior role requires a visionary leader with a deep understanding of the unique design considerations for learning environments and scientific facilities. You will be responsible for guiding the conceptualization, design development, and execution of state-of-the-art campuses, laboratories, and academic buildings. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in managing complex projects, collaborating effectively with academic leaders and researchers, and ensuring designs foster innovation, collaboration, and well‑being. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape the future of education and research infrastructure in the North West province, contributing to a legacy of excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the architectural design process for educational and research facilities in Mahikeng, North West .
• Develop innovative and functional designs that support advanced learning, scientific discovery, and community engagement.
• Oversee the creation of detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and technical documentation.
• Collaborate closely with university administrators, faculty, researchers, and specialist consultants.
• Ensure compliance with relevant building codes, accessibility standards, and specific requirements for scientific facilities in South Africa .
• Manage project teams, budgets, and schedules, ensuring successful project delivery from inception to completion.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and user group consultations.
• Champion sustainable design principles and technologies appropriate for academic and research settings.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and design staff, fostering expertise in specialized design areas.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or a related field.
• Professional registration with SAIA or equivalent.
• Minimum of 15 years of architectural experience, with a significant focus on educational (universities, schools) and research facilities (laboratories, science centers).
• Proven track record of leading complex, large‑scale institutional projects.
• In-depth knowledge of pedagogical approaches, laboratory design principles, and technology integration in academic environments.
• Proficiency in advanced BIM software (Revit), AutoCAD, and project management tools.
• Strong understanding of building performance, sustainability, and acoustics in institutional settings.
• Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to navigate complex procurement processes and regulatory frameworks.

Benefits

Our client offers an exceptional compensation package, reflecting the seniority and expertise required for this role, along with a comprehensive benefits program

• medical aid
• a generous retirement fund contribution
• professional development opportunities

This position offers the chance to make a significant contribution to the educational and scientific landscape of the North West province, working on prestigious projects in Mahikeng and beyond.

Join a firm that values innovation, academic collaboration, and long‑term career growth.