Principal Commercial Architect

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Mpumalanga is seeking a Principal Commercial Architect to lead the design division for large-scale commercial projects. You will guide design concepts, manage teams, and ensure design excellence while maintaining strong client relationships.

The role emphasizes office-based collaboration with occasional site visits, requiring deep knowledge of local regulations and sustainable practices. A strategic thinker with a track record in delivering complex developments is essential.

Qualifications

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP.
• Master's degree in Architecture or related discipline.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in architectural practice, focusing on commercial projects.
• Demonstrated experience leading design teams and managing complex developments.
• Proficiency in architectural design software: Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of large-scale commercial architectural projects.
• Develop innovative and functional design concepts meeting client objectives and market demands.
• Oversee preparation of detailed architectural documentation, drawings, specs, reports.
• Manage project teams with effective collaboration and quality control.
• Liaise with clients, developers and stakeholders to define project scope and requirements.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility standards.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants and contractors for seamless execution.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses and risk assessments for commercial developments.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and design staff.
• Stay abreast of trends in commercial architecture, technology, and sustainability.
• Contribute to business development and client presentations.

Skills

Leadership

Client management

Communication

Team leadership

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

SACAP registration

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading architectural firm located in **Nelspruit, Mpumalanga**, is seeking an experienced Principal Commercial Architect to lead their commercial design division. This senior role demands a strategic thinker with a proven track record in designing and delivering complex commercial projects, including office buildings, retail centers, and mixed-use developments. You will be responsible for spearheading design conceptualization, managing project teams, ensuring design excellence, and fostering strong client relationships. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of commercial market trends, sustainable building practices, and regulatory requirements within **Mpumalanga**. This is a primarily office-based role, emphasizing collaboration and client engagement, with occasional site visits. You will have a significant opportunity to shape the commercial landscape of the region and contribute to the firm's continued success and innovation in commercial architecture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and delivery of large-scale commercial architectural projects.
• Develop innovative and functional design concepts that meet client objectives and market demands.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed architectural documentation, including drawings, specifications, and reports.
• Manage project teams, ensuring effective collaboration and quality control throughout the design process.
• Liaise with clients, developers, and stakeholders to define project scope and requirements.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility standards.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and contractors to ensure seamless project execution.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and risk assessments for commercial developments.
• Mentor and guide junior architects and design staff.
• Stay abreast of current trends in commercial architecture, technology, and sustainability.
• Contribute to business development, proposals, and client presentations.
• Champion design excellence and innovation within the commercial sector.

Requirements

• Professional Architect registration with SACAP.
• Master's degree in Architecture or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural practice, with a significant focus on commercial projects.
• Demonstrated experience in leading design teams and managing complex commercial developments from inception to completion.
• Proven ability to deliver projects on time and within budget.
• Strong knowledge of commercial building typologies, materials, and construction methods.
• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp).
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and client management skills.
• Thorough understanding of South African building regulations and planning processes.
• Experience with sustainable design principles in commercial buildings is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving capabilities.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package and performance incentives.
• Comprehensive medical aid and pension fund contributions.
• Generous annual leave and opportunities for professional development.
• Prime office location in **Nelspruit**.
• Involvement in high-impact commercial projects.
• Collaborative and professional work environment.
• Opportunity for career advancement and leadership.