Principal Architect - Urban Regeneration

Placements24; South Africa; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work arrangement

Medical aid

Pension fund

Competitive salary

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Architect in Pretoria, Gauteng to lead transformative urban regeneration projects. You will guide design teams, engage with diverse stakeholders, and shape the city’s future with sustainability at the core.

Candidates should have 12+ years in architecture and SACAP registration, with strong leadership and a vision for impactful, community-focused urban design. Hybrid work and competitive benefits offered.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning required.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in architecture with urban planning focus.
• Experience leading complex, large-scale urban development initiatives.
• Professional SACAP registration is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction and strategic vision for major urban regeneration projects.
• Oversee and mentor architectural teams through design and execution.
• Engage with city officials, communities, developers, and stakeholders.
• Develop innovative design solutions addressing urban challenges with sustainability.
• Ensure high standards of architectural excellence, functionality, and aesthetics.
• Prepare and present design proposals, reports and master plans.
• Manage project budgets, timelines and quality control.
• Champion best practices in sustainable design and urban planning.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Negotiation

Hybrid collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Rhino

Lumion

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking architectural firm specializing in urban regeneration and community-focused design, is seeking a Principal Architect to lead transformative projects in Pretoria, Gauteng . This role requires a visionary leader with a deep commitment to sustainable urban development and a proven ability to conceptualize and deliver large-scale, impactful projects. The Principal Architect will guide design teams, engage with diverse stakeholders, and shape the urban fabric of Pretoria, Gauteng . If you are passionate about creating meaningful spaces that enhance community life and promote environmental responsibility, this is an unparalleled opportunity to make a lasting legacy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design direction and strategic vision for major urban regeneration and development projects.
• Oversee and mentor architectural teams throughout the design and execution phases.
• Engage with city officials, community groups, developers, and other stakeholders to foster collaboration and alignment.
• Develop innovative design solutions that address complex urban challenges and promote sustainability.
• Ensure all projects meet high standards of architectural excellence, functionality, and aesthetic quality.
• Prepare and present design proposals, reports, and master plans to clients and public bodies.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and quality control measures.
• Champion best practices in sustainable design and urban planning within the firm and project teams.
• Represent the firm in public forums and industry events related to urban development.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning.
• Minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in architecture, with a significant focus on urban planning, design, and regeneration projects.
• Demonstrated experience leading complex, large-scale urban development initiatives.
• Exceptional design portfolio showcasing conceptual strength and successful project delivery.
• In-depth knowledge of urban design principles, sustainability practices, and South African planning regulations.
• Proficiency in architectural design and visualization software (Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Lumion, etc.).
• Strong leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work model, balancing on-site project engagement with remote collaboration.
• Professional registration with SACAP is essential.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary commensurate with a Principal level role.
• Hybrid work arrangement offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Opportunity to shape the future of urban landscapes in Pretoria, Gauteng .
• Leadership role in high-impact, community-focused projects.
• Access to advanced design technology and resources.
• Comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and pension fund.