Senior Architect - Commercial & Retail Design

Placements24; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical aid and retirement fund

Professional development allowance

Career advancement opportunities

Dynamic, collaborative Pretoria office

Excellent project exposure

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a seasoned Senior Architect for our Pretoria office to lead the design and execution of complex commercial and retail projects. The role balances studio collaboration with focused remote execution, contributing to Gauteng-region developments.

The successful candidate will manage teams, client relations, and ensure high-quality architectural solutions across the project lifecycle, from concept through to construction administration.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• 8+ years of post-graduate experience in architectural practice, focused on commercial and retail design.
• Proven ability to lead complex projects from inception to completion.
• Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD and SketchUp.
• Strong knowledge of South African building regulations and planning procedures.
• Professional SACAP registration is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design teams on significant commercial and retail projects.
• Develop creative and practical design concepts aligned with client briefs and market trends.
• Produce detailed drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.
• Oversee the project lifecycle from design through to handover.
• Manage client communications, presentations and relationships.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct site visits, inspections, and quality control during construction.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and sustainability standards.
• Mentor junior architects and technologists.
• Contribute to business development and client acquisition efforts.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Project management

Sustainable design

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious architectural firm with a strong reputation for designing innovative commercial and retail spaces, is seeking a seasoned Senior Architect to join their vibrant Pretoria office. This role is crucial for leading the design and execution of complex projects, from conceptualization through to construction administration. You will be responsible for managing project teams, client relations, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, functional, and aesthetically compelling architectural solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the commercial and retail sectors, coupled with exceptional design talent and project management skills. This hybrid position offers the flexibility to balance collaborative studio work with focused remote execution, contributing to impactful projects within the Gauteng region. We are committed to fostering an environment of continuous learning and professional growth, offering a challenging yet rewarding career path for ambitious architects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design teams on significant commercial and retail projects.
• Develop creative and practical design concepts, ensuring alignment with client briefs and market trends.
• Produce detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.
• Oversee the project lifecycle, from initial design phases through to project completion and handover.
• Manage client communications, presentations, and relationships, ensuring client satisfaction.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, contractors, and regulatory bodies.
• Conduct site visits, inspections, and quality control assessments during construction.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and sustainability standards.
• Mentor junior architects and technologists, fostering a high-performance team culture.
• Contribute to business development and client acquisition efforts.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• A minimum of 8 years of post-graduate professional experience in architectural practice, with a significant focus on commercial and retail design.
• Proven experience in leading complex architectural projects from inception to completion.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp.
• Strong understanding of commercial and retail design principles, materials, and construction methods.
• Excellent knowledge of South African building regulations and planning procedures.
• Demonstrated ability to manage project budgets and timelines effectively.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in sustainable design practices is highly desirable.
• Professional registration with SACAP is required.

Benefits

• Attractive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Hybrid work model offering excellent work-life balance.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile commercial and retail developments.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.
• Generous allowance for professional development and continuing education.
• A dynamic and collaborative work environment in Pretoria .
• Clear pathways for career advancement within the firm.