Principal Urban Designer

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

Benefits offered by this job

Executive remuneration package

Comprehensive benefits

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Principal Urban Designer in Sandton to lead the design of major urban development projects, shaping sustainable and economically vibrant environments. You will conceptualize master plans, develop guidelines, and collaborate with government, developers and communities.

The role requires a senior, visionary leader who can manage complex teams, drive stakeholder engagement, and stay ahead of international best practices in urban design and planning, while operating in a

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or related field.
• 10–15 years of progressive experience in urban design with a substantial portfolio of complex urban development projects.
• Proven experience in leading major urban planning and design initiatives.
• Expertise in urban design theory, master planning, placemaking, and public realm design.
• Proficiency in design/visualization software: AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of urban design strategies, master plans, and frameworks for large-scale projects.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and context analyses for urban proposals.
• Develop design guidelines, policies, and standards for urban interventions.
• Collaborate with architects, landscape architects, engineers, and planners for integrated solutions.
• Engage with clients, authorities, and communities to facilitate consensus and buy-in.
• Prepare high-quality visualisations, presentations, and reports communicating complex concepts.
• Mentor junior urban designers and planning professionals.
• Stay updated on best practices, trends, and legislation in urban design and planning.
• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships.
• Champion innovative and sustainable approaches to urban development.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Negotiation

Project management

Education

Master's in Urban Design

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

GIS

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading multi-disciplinary design consultancy with a significant presence in Sandton, Gauteng, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal Urban Designer. This senior role involves leading the planning and design of significant urban development projects, shaping environments that are sustainable, livable, and economically vibrant. You will be responsible for conceptualizing master plans, developing design guidelines, and collaborating with a range of stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, and communities. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of urban planning principles, design theory, and a proven ability to manage complex projects and teams. This is a premier opportunity to influence urban landscapes at a strategic level within one of Africa's key economic hubs.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of urban design strategies, master plans, and frameworks for large-scale projects.


• Conduct site analysis, feasibility studies, and context analysis for urban development proposals.


• Develop design guidelines, policies, and standards for urban interventions.


• Collaborate with architects, landscape architects, engineers, and planners to ensure integrated design solutions.


• Engage with clients, public authorities, and community stakeholders to facilitate project consensus and buy-in.


• Prepare high-quality visualisations, presentations, and reports to communicate complex urban design concepts.


• Mentor and guide junior urban designers and planning professionals.


• Stay abreast of international best practices, emerging trends, and relevant legislation in urban design and planning.


• Manage project timelines, budgets, and client relationships effectively.


• Champion innovative and sustainable approaches to urban development.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Urban Design, Urban Planning, Architecture, or a related field.


• A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in urban design, with a substantial portfolio of complex urban development projects.


• Demonstrated experience in leading major urban planning and design initiatives.


• Expertise in urban design theory, master planning, placemaking, and public realm design.


• Proficiency in relevant design and visualization software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, Adobe Creative Suite, GIS).


• Strong understanding of planning legislation, development processes, and environmental impact assessments.


• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.


• Proven ability to manage complex projects and multidisciplinary teams.


• Experience in public consultation and community engagement processes.


• Membership in a relevant professional body is highly desirable.


• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid model from our Sandton office.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive remuneration package and comprehensive benefits, reflecting the strategic importance of this role. This position provides unparalleled opportunities for professional leadership and impact on significant urban projects. You will work within a dynamic and collaborative environment, fostering innovation and excellence. The hybrid work model ensures flexibility and supports a productive work-life balance. Join a prestigious firm in Sandton and play a pivotal role in shaping future urban environments.