Senior Architect - Sustainable Design

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement annuity

Professional development

Hybrid work model

Job summary

Placements24 in Stellenbosch seeks a Senior Architect to lead design projects from concept development through construction administration, with a strong emphasis on environmentally conscious and aesthetically refined solutions that respond to the Western Cape context.

You will collaborate closely with clients, engineers, and urban planners to deliver functional, sustainable buildings; mentor junior architects; ensure regulatory compliance; and drive BIM workflows (Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp)

Qualifications

• Master of Architecture degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Professional registration with the SAIA is essential.
• Minimum of 7 years post-graduate experience in architectural practice.
• Demonstrated experience in sustainable design and green building certifications (e.g., LEED, Green Star SA).
• Proficiency in architectural design software, particularly BIM tools like Revit.
• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems.
• Excellent design, visualization, and presentation skills.
• Strong project management and organizational abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in client liaison.
• A portfolio showcasing innovative and sustainable design projects is required.
• Willingness to adopt a hybrid work model, balancing remote work with on-site client and project meetings in Stellenbosch.

Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design processes for a diverse range of projects (residential, commercial, institutional).
• Develop conceptual and schematic designs and detailed construction documentation.
• Champion sustainable design principles and integrate green technologies.
• Coordinate efforts with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers.
• Manage client relationships and present design proposals effectively.
• Conduct site analysis and feasibility studies to inform design decisions.
• Oversee construction administration and ensure designs are implemented accurately.
• Mentor junior architects and interns to foster collaboration.
• Ensure compliance with local codes, zoning, and heritage guidelines for Stellenbosch/Western Cape.
• Utilize BIM and rendering software proficiently.

Skills

Project management

Communication

Client liaison

Presentation skills

Education

Master of Architecture

SAIA registration

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking architectural practice renowned for its commitment to sustainable design and innovation, is seeking a talented Senior Architect to join their established team in Stellenbosch, Western Cape. This role involves leading architectural design projects from concept development through to construction administration, with a strong emphasis on environmentally conscious and aesthetically pleasing solutions. You will collaborate closely with clients, engineers, and urban planners to deliver projects that are both functional and sustainable. The ideal candidate will possess a passion for green building principles, a refined design sensibility, and proven experience in managing complex architectural endeavors. This is an exceptional opportunity to make a significant contribution to the built environment in the picturesque Stellenbosch region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead architectural design processes for a diverse range of projects, including residential, commercial, and institutional buildings.


• Develop conceptual designs, schematic designs, and detailed construction documentation.


• Champion sustainable design principles and integrate green building technologies into projects.


• Coordinate architectural efforts with structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing engineers.


• Manage client relationships, understand their needs, and present design proposals effectively.


• Conduct site analysis and feasibility studies to inform design decisions.


• Oversee the construction administration phase, ensuring designs are implemented accurately.


• Mentor junior architects and interns, fostering a collaborative and creative team environment.


• Ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning regulations, and heritage guidelines specific to Stellenbosch and the Western Cape.


• Utilize architectural software such as Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and rendering programs proficiently.

Requirements

• Master of Architecture degree or equivalent professional qualification.


• Professional registration with the South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) is essential.


• Minimum of 7 years of post-graduate experience in architectural practice.


• Demonstrated experience in sustainable design and green building certifications (e.g., LEED, Green Star SA).


• Proficiency in architectural design software, particularly BIM tools like Revit.


• Strong understanding of construction methods, materials, and building systems.


• Excellent design, visualization, and presentation skills.


• Strong project management and organizational abilities.


• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with experience in client liaison.


• A portfolio showcasing innovative and sustainable design projects is required.


• Willingness to adopt a hybrid work model, balancing remote work with on-site client and project meetings in Stellenbosch.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and benefits package, reflecting the senior nature of this role. This includes comprehensive medical aid, a retirement annuity, and opportunities for professional development and further training. You will join a highly respected firm with a strong portfolio of innovative and sustainable projects. The role provides significant autonomy and the chance to influence design outcomes. Our client encourages a healthy work-life balance and fosters a creative and collaborative studio culture. Working in Stellenbosch offers a unique lifestyle appeal.