Principal Architect - Mixed-Use Developments

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,800,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Architect to lead large-scale mixed-use developments in Rustenburg, North West. The role requires visionary leadership, extensive post-qualification experience, and a portfolio of high-impact projects.

You will oversee the architectural process from concept to construction, mentor a design team, and collaborate with developers, engineers, and authorities to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions in a dynamic urban setting.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture and SACAP registration.
• Minimum 12 years post-qualification experience leading major mixed-use developments.
• Proven track record in complex urban development projects from concept to completion.
• Exceptional design leadership and a strong portfolio of mixed-use projects.
• Advanced proficiency in Revit and AutoCAD; strong project management skills.
• In-depth knowledge of urban planning, zoning regulations, and SA building codes.
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization and design development for large-scale mixed-use projects.
• Provide strategic architectural direction through all project phases.
• Mentor a team of architects and designers to maintain high performance.
• Collaborate with developers, urban planners, engineers, and authorities.
• Ensure designs are innovative, viable, sustainable and compliant.
• Develop design proposals, master plans, and construction documentation.
• Represent the firm in client meetings, presentations, and public consultations.
• Oversee quality control and technical integrity of outputs.
• Coordinate with contractors to ensure faithful execution.
• Stay abreast of architectural trends, technologies, and regulatory changes.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Strategic thinking

Creative design

Urban planning principles

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

SACAP registration

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

MS Project

BIM software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent development and design firm known for creating innovative mixed-use urban environments, is seeking an accomplished Principal Architect to lead significant projects in Rustenburg, North West . This senior leadership role requires a visionary professional with extensive experience in complex, large-scale mixed-use developments, encompassing residential, commercial, and public spaces. You will be responsible for overseeing the entire architectural process, from strategic planning and conceptual design to detailed execution and stakeholder management. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional design leadership, a deep understanding of urban planning principles, and a proven ability to deliver commercially successful and architecturally significant projects. This is a pivotal role influencing the urban regeneration and development landscape of Rustenburg .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design development for large-scale mixed-use projects.
• Provide strategic architectural direction and oversight throughout all project phases.
• Manage and mentor a team of architects and designers, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Collaborate closely with developers, urban planners, engineers, and local authorities.
• Ensure designs are innovative, commercially viable, and align with sustainability and urban design best practices.
• Develop comprehensive design proposals, master plans, and construction documentation.
• Represent the firm in client meetings, presentations, and public consultations.
• Oversee the quality control and technical integrity of all architectural outputs.
• Liaise with contractors and construction teams to ensure faithful execution of designs.
• Stay at the forefront of architectural trends, technologies, and regulatory changes impacting mixed-use development.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture and SACAP registration.
• Minimum of 12 years of post-qualification experience, with a substantial track record in leading major mixed-use developments.
• Demonstrated experience in complex urban development projects from concept to completion.
• Exceptional design leadership, creativity, and a strong portfolio showcasing impactful mixed-use projects.
• Advanced proficiency in architectural design software (Revit, AutoCAD) and project management tools.
• In-depth knowledge of urban planning, zoning regulations, and building codes in South Africa .
• Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage large teams and complex project dynamics.
• Experience in the North West region or similar developing urban contexts is advantageous.
• Strategic thinking and commercial acumen are essential.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package, commensurate with the seniority and impact of this role. Benefits include a comprehensive medical aid plan, pension fund, and opportunities for international professional development. You will have the opportunity to lead transformative projects that shape the future urban landscape of Rustenburg, North West . The firm provides a dynamic and collaborative work environment, encouraging innovation and design leadership. This role is critical in driving forward ambitious development initiatives within the region.