Principal Urban Designer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based bonus

Medical aid

Retirement benefits

Leadership development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban is seeking a Principal Urban Designer to lead our urban design practice, shaping strategic master plans and public realm strategies for major regeneration projects across South Africa.

You will mentor a multidisciplinary team of designers and planners, collaborate with clients, authorities, and communities, and ensure projects are financially viable, technically feasible, and environmentally sustainable.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with leadership exposure.
• Proven track record leading complex urban design projects from inception to completion.
• Exceptional design skills and a strong portfolio.
• Thorough knowledge of South African planning legislation and public sector processes.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, and GIS.

Responsibilities

• Lead strategic vision and design development for large-scale urban planning and regeneration projects.
• Develop innovative urban design concepts and master plans responding to social, economic, and environmental contexts.
• Mentor a team of urban designers, planners, and landscape architects.
• Engage with clients, government authorities, community groups, and other stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Oversee detailed design guidelines, development frameworks, and public realm strategies.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and impact assessments for urban development proposals.
• Represent the firm and advocate for sound urban design principles in public forums and consultations.
• Ensure projects are technically feasible, financially viable, and environmentally sustainable.
• Stay current with global trends in urbanism, smart cities, and resilient design.
• Contribute to business development and the growth of the urban design practice.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Stakeholder engagement

Communication

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design/Planning

Tools

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client is a highly respected multi-disciplinary design and planning consultancy renowned for its impactful work in urban regeneration and development across South Africa. Situated in the dynamic coastal city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal , we are seeking an accomplished and visionary Principal Urban Designer to lead our urban design practice. This senior role involves shaping the strategic direction of urban development projects, fostering collaborative relationships with stakeholders, and mentoring a talented team of designers and planners. You will be responsible for leading the design and implementation of complex urban projects, from master planning to detailed design, with a strong emphasis on creating vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive public spaces. The successful candidate will possess a unique blend of creative design talent, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of urban planning principles and processes relevant to Durban and its unique context.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the strategic vision and design development for large-scale urban planning and regeneration projects.
• Develop innovative urban design concepts and master plans that respond to social, economic, and environmental contexts.
• Manage and mentor a team of urban designers, planners, and landscape architects, fostering a culture of design excellence.
• Engage effectively with clients, government authorities, community groups, and other stakeholders throughout the design process.
• Oversee the preparation of detailed design guidelines, development frameworks, and public realm strategies.
• Conduct feasibility studies, site analyses, and impact assessments for urban development proposals.
• Represent the firm and advocate for sound urban design principles in public forums and consultations.
• Ensure projects are technically feasible, financially viable, and environmentally sustainable.
• Stay current with global trends in urbanism, smart cities, and resilient design.
• Contribute to business development and the growth of the urban design practice.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.
• A minimum of 12 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with a significant portion in a leadership or principal role.
• Demonstrable track record of successfully leading and delivering complex urban design projects from inception to completion.
• Exceptional design skills, with a strong portfolio showcasing innovative and contextually relevant urban environments.
• Thorough understanding of South African planning legislation, development processes, and public sector engagement.
• Proficiency in relevant design and visualization software (e.g., AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS).
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas clearly.
• Experience in stakeholder engagement and facilitation of public participation processes.
• Professional affiliation with a recognized urban planning or design institute is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive remuneration package, including a substantial performance-based bonus structure, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement benefits.
• We provide excellent opportunities for professional growth, leadership development, and the chance to shape significant urban projects in Durban and across the region.
• The firm champions a collaborative and inspiring work environment, promoting innovation and a healthy work-life balance.
• Employees benefit from working on challenging and rewarding projects that have a real impact on communities, alongside a team of highly skilled and dedicated professionals.