Principal Urban Designer

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Private healthcare

Retirement fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is partnering with a globally recognized leader in urban planning and architectural design to recruit a Principal Urban Designer based in Centurion, Gauteng. The role demands visionary leadership to shape sustainable, livable urban environments and to drive transformative master planning initiatives.

You will lead multi-disciplinary teams, manage complex projects from inception to approval, mentor junior designers, and engage with diverse stakeholders to deliver innovative design

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field.
• At least 10 years progressive experience in urban design, master planning, and landscape architecture.
• Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and complex projects.
• Strong visualization skills with Rhino, Grasshopper, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS.
• Deep understanding of South Africa's planning policy, zoning regulations, and development processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of high-level urban design strategies and master plans for significant urban projects.
• Direct and inspire multi-disciplinary teams of architects, planners, landscape architects, and engineers throughout the design process.
• Conduct site analyses to inform design development including environmental and socio-economic factors.
• Create design narratives, visuals, and presentations for clients, government agencies, and the public.
• Engage with stakeholders, including community groups and government bodies, to build consensus on proposals.
• Ensure urban design projects adhere to sustainability, resilience, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity.
• Oversee preparation of design guidelines, policy recommendations, and regulatory frameworks.
• Mentor junior urban designers and planners.
• Stay updated with global trends and technologies in urban design.
• Critically review external proposals and provide input.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Vision and strategy

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design/Urban Planning/Architecture

Tools

Rhino

Grasshopper

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized leader in urban planning and architectural design, is seeking a visionary and highly accomplished Principal Urban Designer to lead transformative projects from their strategic base in Centurion, Gauteng . This senior role is critical for shaping sustainable, livable, and vibrant urban environments. The ideal candidate will possess an exceptional track record in urban design strategy, master planning, and public realm design, coupled with strong leadership qualities and a deep understanding of socio-economic and environmental factors influencing urban development. You will be instrumental in developing innovative design concepts, guiding multi-disciplinary teams, and engaging with stakeholders to realize complex urban regeneration and new development initiatives. This is a unique opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on the urban fabric of South Africa and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of high-level urban design strategies and master plans for significant urban projects.
• Direct and inspire multi-disciplinary teams of architects, planners, landscape architects, and engineers throughout the design process.
• Conduct comprehensive site analyses, including context, environmental, and socio-economic assessments, to inform design development.
• Create compelling design narratives, visualizations, and presentations to communicate design vision to clients, government agencies, and the public.
• Engage effectively with diverse stakeholders, including community groups, developers, and governmental bodies, to build consensus and support for design proposals.
• Ensure that all urban design projects adhere to principles of sustainability, resilience, accessibility, and cultural sensitivity.
• Oversee the preparation of design guidelines, policy recommendations, and regulatory frameworks to support urban development.
• Mentor and guide junior urban designers and planners, fostering professional growth within the team.
• Stay at the forefront of global trends, best practices, and innovative technologies in urban design and planning.
• Critically review and provide expert input on design proposals submitted by external consultants.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban design, master planning, and landscape architecture, with a significant portion in a leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated expertise in developing innovative and implementable urban design solutions for complex urban contexts.
• Exceptional skills in design visualization, including proficiency with software such as Rhino, Grasshopper, AutoCAD, SketchUp, the Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS.
• Proven ability to lead and manage complex, multi-stakeholder projects from inception to approval.
• Deep understanding of urban planning policy, zoning regulations, and development processes in South Africa .
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• A strong portfolio showcasing a range of successful urban design projects.
• Commitment to sustainable development and placemaking principles.
• Ability to think strategically and translate high-level concepts into tangible design outcomes.

Benefits

• Our client offers an industry-leading compensation package, reflecting the seniority and impact of this role, including a competitive base salary and potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Benefits include comprehensive private healthcare, a generous retirement fund, and substantial annual leave.
• We provide unparalleled opportunities for professional development, including funding for conferences, further education, and leadership training.
• Working with us means contributing to high-profile projects that shape cities and communities.
• Join a collaborative and inspiring environment in Centurion where your expertise is valued and your career can thrive.