Principal Architectural Designer

Placements24; Noord-Kaap; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration package

Medical aid and pension benefits

Professional development and training

Hybrid work model with remote options

Opportunities for international design

Job summary

WhatJobs Direct is partnering with a Kimberley-based architectural firm to hire a Principal Architectural Designer. The role leads design vision for major projects, mentors teams, and ensures delivery of innovative, high-quality architecture in a hybrid work model.

The ideal candidate has a distinguished portfolio, deep knowledge of design theory, and strong communication skills to interface with clients and stakeholders across the Northern Cape region.

Qualifications

• Master of Architecture degree or equivalent.
• 10+ years of progressive architectural design experience with leadership of high-profile projects.
• Exceptional design talent, creativity, and a strong portfolio demonstrating leadership.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino and advanced visualization tools.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead, inspire, and manage design teams in hybrid environments.
• Deep understanding of architectural history, theory, and contemporary practice.
• Familiarity with South African building regulations and Northern Cape planning.
• Experience working in a hybrid professional environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of innovative architectural designs for large-scale and complex projects.
• Mentor and guide junior and senior designers, fostering design excellence and creativity.
• Develop and present compelling design proposals to clients, stakeholders, and review boards.
• Ensure design integrity and quality throughout all project phases, from concept to construction documentation.
• Collaborate with technical teams to ensure designs are practical, buildable, and compliant with regulations.
• Conduct design reviews and critiques, providing insightful feedback to elevate design quality.
• Stay abreast of emerging design trends, materials, and technologies, and integrate them where appropriate.
• Represent the firm in design discussions and contribute to business development efforts.
• Champion the firm's design philosophy and uphold its reputation for excellence.
• Contribute to strategic planning and the direction of the design department.

Skills

Design leadership

Mentoring

Communication

Education

Master of Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Rhino

3D visualization

Job description

About the Role

WhatJobs Direct is seeking a highly accomplished Principal Architectural Designer to lead the design vision for a prestigious architectural firm based in Kimberley. This senior role is responsible for conceptualizing and directing the design direction of major projects, mentoring design teams, and ensuring the delivery of innovative and impactful architectural solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a distinguished portfolio, exceptional creative talent, and a deep understanding of design theory, historical context, and contemporary trends. You will collaborate closely with clients and stakeholders to translate ambitious visions into tangible, high-quality built environments. This position offers a significant opportunity to shape the firm's design output and contribute to the architectural landscape of the Northern Cape region, within a flexible hybrid work model.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of innovative architectural designs for large-scale and complex projects.
• Mentor and guide junior and senior designers, fostering a culture of design excellence and creativity.
• Develop and present compelling design proposals and presentations to clients, stakeholders, and review boards.
• Ensure design integrity and quality throughout all project phases, from concept to construction documentation.
• Collaborate with technical teams to ensure designs are practical, buildable, and meet all regulatory requirements.
• Conduct design reviews and critiques, providing insightful feedback to elevate design quality.
• Stay abreast of emerging design trends, materials, and technologies, and integrate them where appropriate.
• Represent the firm in design-related discussions and contribute to business development efforts.
• Champion the firm's design philosophy and uphold its reputation for excellence.
• Contribute to strategic planning and the direction of the design department.

Requirements

• Master of Architecture degree or equivalent.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design, with a significant track record of leading high-profile projects.
• Exceptional design talent, creativity, and a strong portfolio demonstrating design leadership and innovation.
• Expert proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino) and advanced visualization tools.
• Outstanding communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Proven ability to lead, inspire, and manage design teams effectively.
• Deep understanding of architectural history, theory, and contemporary practice.
• Familiarity with South African building regulations and local planning requirements in the Northern Cape .
• Experience working successfully in a hybrid professional environment.
• A visionary approach to architectural design and problem-solving.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a significant base salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical aid, a generous pension fund, and ample vacation time are provided.
• The firm invests in continuous professional development, offering opportunities for advanced training, international exposure, and participation in design competitions.
• This hybrid role allows for a dynamic work experience, blending collaborative studio time in Kimberley with the flexibility of remote work.
• Join a practice that values design leadership and empowers its professionals to create groundbreaking architecture.