Principal Urban Designer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Project leadership

Growth opportunities

Collaborative culture

Liveable cities

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Principal Urban Designer role with a leading urban planning and design consultancy operating in Rustenburg, North West. The role shapes strategic direction and oversees complex urban development projects, combining visionary planning with strong design execution.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, engage with stakeholders, mentor junior staff, and drive business development while delivering sustainable, contextually appropriate urban design solutions

Qualifications

• Master's degree in related field.
• 10+ years progressive experience in urban design and planning with leadership on major projects.
• Portfolio demonstrating leadership and design excellence.
• Knowledge of SA planning policies is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Lead design and development of comprehensive urban master plans and frameworks.
• Oversee urban design proposals including streetscapes and land use plans.
• Conduct site analysis, feasibility studies, and impact assessments.
• Engage community groups, government agencies, and developers to build consensus.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, and other specialists for integrated outcomes.
• Develop and present concepts and proposals to clients and public bodies.
• Mentor junior urban designers and staff.
• Support business development and client relationship building.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder Eng

Analytical

Communication

Mentorship

Policy knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Urban Design/Planning/Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Adobe Creative Suite

SketchUp

Lumion

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking urban planning and design consultancy with a significant presence in Rustenburg, North West , is searching for an accomplished Principal Urban Designer. This senior position is crucial for shaping the strategic direction and execution of complex urban development projects. The ideal candidate will possess a visionary approach to urban planning, combined with exceptional design skills and a deep understanding of sustainable development principles. You will lead multidisciplinary teams, engage with stakeholders at all levels, and be responsible for delivering innovative and contextually appropriate urban design solutions. This role offers the unique opportunity to influence the future growth and character of urban environments. As a Principal, you will be a key player in business development, client relationship management, and mentoring junior staff. Your expertise will be invaluable in navigating the intricacies of urban regeneration and development projects in the region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of comprehensive urban master plans and strategic frameworks.
• Oversee the creation of detailed urban design proposals, including streetscapes, public spaces, and land use plans.
• Conduct site analysis, feasibility studies, and impact assessments for urban development projects.
• Engage with community groups, government agencies, and developers to build consensus and support for design initiatives.
• Collaborate with architects, landscape architects, engineers, and other specialists to ensure integrated design outcomes.
• Develop and present design concepts and project proposals to clients and public bodies.
• Mentor and guide junior urban designers and planning professionals.
• Contribute to business development activities and foster client relationships.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related discipline.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban design and planning, with a portfolio demonstrating leadership on significant projects.
• Expertise in urban design theory, placemaking, sustainable development, and public realm design.
• Proficiency in relevant design and visualization software (e.g., AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, Lumion).
• Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire multidisciplinary teams.
• Knowledge of South African planning policies and regulatory frameworks is advantageous.

Benefits

• Highly competitive remuneration package.
• Opportunity to lead impactful urban development projects in and around Rustenburg, North West .
• Be at the forefront of innovative urban design thinking.
• Professional growth and leadership opportunities.
• A dynamic and collaborative work culture that values creativity and expertise.
• Contribution to shaping sustainable and liveable urban futures.