Principal Architect - Urban Planning

Placements24; Paarl; Hybrid; ZAR 1,500,000 - 2,700,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a visionary Principal Architect specializing in Urban Planning for a fully remote senior leadership role to shape cities worldwide.

Lead design and strategic planning of large-scale urban regeneration, master plans, and mixed-use developments, collaborating with city officials, developers, and engineers, while mentoring remote teams.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, Urban Design, or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of extensive experience in architectural practice with focus on urban planning and large-scale development.
• Demonstrated portfolio of urban master plans and large-scale projects.
• Deep understanding of urban planning principles, zoning, public policy, and sustainable development.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and remote communication skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, GIS, and Adobe Creative Suite.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and strategic planning of major urban development projects, master plans, and city-scale initiatives.
• Develop innovative concepts for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban environments.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analysis, and spatial planning for complex urban sites.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including planners, designers, engineers, and policymakers.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders, and communities to build consensus and articulate design vision.
• Prepare and present high-level design proposals and master plan documentation.
• Stay updated on global trends in urbanism, smart cities, and sustainability.
• Mentor and guide junior team members remotely.

Skills

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Strategic thinking

Communication

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Architecture/Urban Planning

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

GIS

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally renowned design consultancy with a strong focus on innovative urban development, is seeking a visionary Principal Architect specializing in Urban Planning. This is a fully remote, senior leadership role offering the chance to shape the future of cities and communities worldwide. You will lead the conceptualization and strategic planning of large-scale urban regeneration projects, master plans, and mixed-use developments. Your role will involve close collaboration with city officials, developers, landscape architects, and engineers to create sustainable, resilient, and human-centered urban environments. This position requires exceptional strategic thinking, design leadership, and a profound understanding of urban dynamics, policy, and sustainability principles. You will operate independently, driving impactful projects from conception through to implementation, contributing to defining the urban landscape remotely.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and strategic planning of major urban development projects, master plans, and city-scale initiatives.
• Develop innovative concepts and frameworks for sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban environments.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analysis, and spatial planning for complex urban sites.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including urban designers, planners, landscape architects, engineers, and policymakers.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders, and community groups to build consensus and articulate design vision.
• Prepare and present high-level design proposals, reports, and master plan documentation.
• Stay abreast of global trends in urbanism, smart cities, sustainable development, and architectural innovation.
• Mentor and guide junior members of the urban planning and design team remotely.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture, Urban Planning, Urban Design, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of extensive experience in architectural practice with a significant focus on urban planning and large-scale development.
• Demonstrated portfolio of successfully delivered urban master plans and large-scale projects.
• Deep understanding of urban planning principles, zoning regulations, public policy, and sustainable development strategies.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic thinking, and communication skills, suitable for remote engagement.
• Proficiency in relevant design and planning software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, GIS, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Proven ability to manage complex projects, build strong client relationships, and lead diverse teams remotely.
• A compelling vision for the future of cities and the role of architecture within them.

Benefits

• This pivotal remote role offers an executive-level compensation package, comprehensive health benefits, flexible working hours, and the opportunity to shape significant urban projects on a global scale.
• You will be a key leader in a dynamic, forward-thinking consultancy, driving innovation in urban design and planning from your chosen location.