Senior Architect - Urban Planning Specialist

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Health and wellness benefits

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Architect specializing in Urban Planning to shape the future of Johannesburg’s urban fabric. You will bridge architectural design with city-scale planning, delivering sustainable, human-centric developments that integrate with existing infrastructure.

You will lead multidisciplinary teams, mentor staff, and drive master plans, zoning, and development guidelines for high-profile urban projects, with a focus on innovation and economic viability.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning from an accredited institution.
• Professional registration with SACAP or equivalent is essential.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design and urban planning with a strong portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design development of large-scale urban planning projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive site analyses, feasibility studies, and urban impact assessments.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams including urban planners, landscape architects, engineers and environmental consultants.
• Develop detailed master plans, zoning proposals, and development guidelines.
• Present design proposals and project updates to clients, stakeholders, and public authorities.
• Mentor junior architects and urban planning staff, fostering design excellence and continuous learning.
• Stay abreast of trends in urban design, sustainable development, and smart city technologies.

Skills

Urban planning

Architectural design

Leadership

Project management

Stakeholder communication

Education

Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

GIS

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading architectural firm renowned for its innovative urban development projects, is seeking a highly experienced and visionary Senior Architect with a specialization in Urban Planning. This role is crucial for shaping the future landscape of major metropolitan areas, focusing on sustainable, human-centric, and economically viable urban environments. You will be instrumental in bridging the gap between architectural design and strategic city planning, ensuring that new developments integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure and contribute positively to community well-being. This is a challenging yet incredibly rewarding opportunity to leave a lasting legacy on the urban fabric of Johannesburg and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and design development of large-scale urban planning projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct comprehensive site analyses, feasibility studies, and urban impact assessments.
• Collaborate effectively with interdisciplinary teams, including urban planners, landscape architects, engineers, and environmental consultants.
• Develop detailed master plans, zoning proposals, and development guidelines.
• Present design proposals and project updates to clients, stakeholders, and public authorities.
• Mentor junior architects and urban planning staff, fostering a culture of design excellence and continuous learning.
• Stay abreast of emerging trends in urban design, sustainable development, and smart city technologies.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Architecture or Urban Planning from an accredited institution.
• Professional registration with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) or equivalent is essential.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in architectural design and urban planning, with a strong portfolio showcasing complex urban projects.
• Demonstrated expertise in urban design principles, zoning regulations, and development control processes specific to Johannesburg and South African contexts.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and GIS platforms.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and presentation skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects concurrently and meet tight deadlines.
• A passion for creating sustainable and livable urban spaces.

Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package commensurate with experience.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile, transformative urban development projects.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility between office and remote work.
• Comprehensive health and wellness benefits.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• A collaborative and dynamic work environment that values innovation and design excellence.