Project Architect (Commercial & Retail)

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package

Career growth opportunities

Stimulating work environment

Medical aid

Retirement fund contribution

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Project Architect in Durban, South Africa, to lead significant commercial and retail developments from inception to completion.

You will manage designs, drawings, and specifications, coordinate with engineers and contractors, oversee tenders, and ensure regulatory compliance while delivering projects on time and within budget.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of post-qualification experience in architectural practice.
• Proven track record leading large commercial and retail projects.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD and SketchUp.
• Strong knowledge of SA building regulations and planning laws.
• Excellent project management and communication skills.
• Experience in budgeting and client liaison.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural projects from concept to handover for commercial/retail sectors.
• Develop detailed designs, drawings and specs per client briefs.
• Coordinate with engineers, interior designers and contractors.
• Oversee tendering and contractor selection.
• Conduct site inspections to monitor progress and quality.
• Manage client relationships and timely milestone delivery.
• Ensure compliance with building codes and safety standards.
• Prepare project reports and financial forecasts.
• Mentor junior staff.

Skills

Project leadership

Client liaison

Budget management

Regulatory compliance

Portfolio development

Education

Professional Architect qualification (PrArch)

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading architectural and design consultancy, is seeking a dynamic and experienced Project Architect to lead significant commercial and retail developments. Based in the vibrant city of Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, this role is crucial for delivering innovative and functional architectural solutions that meet the evolving demands of the market. You will be responsible for managing projects from inception through to completion, ensuring high standards of design quality, client satisfaction, and project profitability. This position requires a blend of creative design flair and robust project management capabilities. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced environment and possess a proven track record of successfully delivering complex commercial and retail projects on time and within budget. You will work closely with a talented team of professionals dedicated to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage architectural projects, from conceptualization to final handover, with a focus on commercial and retail sectors.
• Develop detailed architectural designs, drawings, and specifications that comply with client briefs and regulatory requirements.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, including engineers, interior designers, and contractors, to ensure seamless project execution.
• Oversee the tendering process, including the preparation of tender documentation and contractor selection.
• Conduct regular site inspections to monitor construction progress, quality, and adherence to design specifications.
• Manage client relationships, ensuring clear communication and timely delivery of project milestones.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant building codes, planning regulations, and health and safety standards.
• Prepare project reports, financial forecasts, and performance evaluations.
• Mentor and provide guidance to junior architectural staff.

Requirements

• Professional Architect qualification (PrArch) or equivalent.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-qualification experience in architectural practice.
• Demonstrable experience in leading and delivering large-scale commercial and retail projects.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp.
• Strong understanding of South African building regulations, planning laws, and construction methodologies.
• Excellent project management, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage project budgets and timelines effectively.
• Experience in client liaison and stakeholder management.
• A strong portfolio of successfully completed commercial and retail projects is essential.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary package, commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• This role comes with significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within a well-respected firm.
• Employees benefit from a stimulating work environment, access to challenging projects, and a collaborative team culture.
• We provide a comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contribution.
• Join our team in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal and contribute to shaping the future of commercial and retail spaces.