Senior Architectural Designer - Sustainable Urban Planning

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement benefits

Hybrid work model

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Cape Town seeks a Senior Architectural Designer to lead urban design initiatives from conception to completion, shaping sustainable, liveable spaces.

Candidates should hold a Bachelor's or Master's in Architecture with 7+ years' experience, be proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp and Adobe CS, and understand SA codes. Hybrid work is offered.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in architectural design with focus on urban planning and sustainable development.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations in South Africa.
• Proven ability to lead design teams and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with diverse stakeholders.
• A portfolio showcasing urban planning and sustainable design projects.
• Registration with SACAP is highly advantageous.
• Experience liaising with municipal authorities and community groups.

Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of architectural designs for urban planning projects, ensuring alignment with client briefs and sustainability goals.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, renderings, and specifications using industry‑standard software.
• Collaborate closely with urban planners, engineers, landscape architects, and other consultants to integrate diverse project requirements.
• Conduct site analyses and feasibility studies to inform design decisions.
• Present design proposals to clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders, articulating design intent and rationale.
• Mentor and guide junior architectural staff, fostering learning and professional growth within the design team.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental standards across all projects.
• Manage design project timelines and budgets, coordinating with project managers for successful delivery.
• Stay abreast of trends in sustainable architecture, urban design, and building technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Mentoring

Team management

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Architecture

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

SketchUp

Adobe Creative Suite

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering firm dedicated to innovative and sustainable architectural solutions, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Architectural Designer to join their dynamic team in Cape Town . This role is integral to shaping the future of urban environments, focusing on projects that blend cutting‑edge design with environmental responsibility. The ideal candidate will possess a profound understanding of architectural principles, a passion for sustainable development, and the ability to lead design initiatives from conception to completion. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to significant urban regeneration projects and make a lasting impact on the city’s landscape. We are looking for a visionary individual who can inspire and guide junior team members, foster collaborative relationships with stakeholders, and ensure that all design outputs meet the highest standards of aesthetic quality and functional performance. The role demands a proactive approach to problem‑solving and a commitment to excellence in every facet of architectural practice. The successful applicant will play a pivotal role in our client’s commitment to creating healthier, more liveable urban spaces.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and development of architectural designs for urban planning projects, ensuring alignment with client briefs and sustainability goals.
• Prepare detailed architectural drawings, renderings, and specifications using industry‑standard software.
• Collaborate closely with urban planners, engineers, landscape architects, and other consultants to integrate diverse project requirements.
• Conduct site analyses and feasibility studies to inform design decisions and identify potential challenges.
• Present design proposals to clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders, effectively articulating design intent and rationale.
• Mentor and guide junior architectural staff, fostering a culture of learning and professional growth within the design team.
• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and environmental standards across all projects.
• Manage design project timelines and budgets, coordinating with project managers to ensure successful project delivery.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends in sustainable architecture, urban design, and building technologies.

Requirements

• A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in architectural design, with a significant focus on urban planning and sustainable development.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong understanding of building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations pertinent to South Africa.
• Proven ability to lead design teams and manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• A portfolio showcasing successful urban planning and sustainable design projects.
• Registration with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) is highly advantageous.
• Demonstrated experience in liaising with municipal authorities and community groups.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, along with comprehensive health insurance and retirement benefits. Employees have access to professional development opportunities, including continued education and conference attendance. The hybrid work model allows for a flexible work‑life balance, blending office collaboration with remote flexibility. Join a forward‑thinking company that values creativity, sustainability, and employee well‑being. This role offers the chance to work on impactful projects that shape the future of urban living in **Cape Town**, with opportunities for career advancement and leadership within a supportive and innovative environment.