Senior Commercial Architect - Mixed-Use Developments

Placements24; Upington; On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Generous annual leave

Professional development

Career advancement

Impactful projects in Upington

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Commercial Architect for its Upington, Northern Cape office. You will lead the design development for large-scale commercial and mixed-use projects, guiding concepts through to construction administration while ensuring design excellence, functional efficiency, and commercial viability.

A strong portfolio and SAIA registration are expected. You will mentor junior architects, manage client relationships, coordinate with consultants and contractors, and stay ahead

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture is required.
• Professional SAIA registration is required.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in architectural design, with focus on commercial/mixed-use developments.
• Proven track record managing large-scale commercial projects.
• Strong understanding of urban planning and development principles.
• Proficiency in design software (Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp) and rendering.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and client-relations skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Lead design development and execution of commercial/mixed-use projects.
• Manage project teams, consultants, and contractors to meet objectives.
• Develop innovative design concepts aligned with client briefs and market needs.
• Ensure compliance with building codes and accessibility standards.
• Oversee preparation of drawings, specifications, and construction docs.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and risk assessments.
• Manage client communications, presentations, and approvals throughout the project.
• Provide construction administration and site supervision as needed.
• Mentor junior architects and designers in commercial design practices.
• Stay updated on commercial real estate trends, materials, and technologies.

Skills

Leadership

Client management

Urban planning

Project management

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Building codes

Education

Master's degree in Architecture

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

SketchUp

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a dynamic and respected architectural firm known for its expertise in designing large-scale commercial and mixed-use developments, is seeking a Senior Commercial Architect for their Upington, Northern Cape office. This role involves leading the design process for significant urban regeneration projects, retail centers, and corporate office buildings. You will be responsible for guiding projects from conceptualization through to construction administration, ensuring design excellence, functional efficiency, and commercial viability. The ideal candidate will have a strong portfolio of successfully delivered commercial projects and a deep understanding of urban planning principles, market demands, and construction technologies relevant to large developments. Working in Upington, Northern Cape, you will play a key role in shaping the built environment of the region. This is an exceptional opportunity to lead high-profile projects, manage client relationships, and mentor a team of talented architects. We are seeking a driven, creative, and commercially astute architect with excellent leadership and communication skills. Join a firm that is committed to innovation, quality, and creating impactful architectural solutions for diverse communities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design development and execution of commercial and mixed-use architectural projects.


• Manage project teams, consultants, and contractors to ensure project objectives are met.


• Develop innovative and functional design concepts that respond to client briefs and market needs.


• Ensure compliance with building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards.


• Oversee the preparation of detailed architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documentation.


• Conduct site analysis, feasibility studies, and project risk assessments.


• Manage client communication, presentations, and approvals throughout the project lifecycle.


• Provide construction administration and site supervision as needed.


• Mentor and guide junior architects and designers in commercial design practices.


• Stay updated on commercial real estate trends, new materials, and construction technologies.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture.


• Professional Architect registration with SAIA.


• Minimum of 8 years of experience in architectural design, with a strong focus on commercial and mixed-use developments.


• Proven track record of successfully managing complex, large-scale commercial projects.


• Demonstrated expertise in urban planning and large-scale development principles.


• Proficiency in architectural design software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp) and rendering software.


• Excellent understanding of South African building regulations and commercial construction practices.


• Strong leadership, project management, and client relationship skills.


• Ability to work effectively under pressure and manage multiple project deadlines.


• A keen understanding of commercial viability and market trends in architecture.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.


• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund contributions.


• Generous annual leave and paid public holidays.


• Professional development opportunities and support for continuous learning.


• Opportunity to lead significant and impactful commercial development projects.


• A collaborative and dynamic work environment.


• Potential for career advancement within a growing firm.


• Contribute to the economic development and architectural landscape of Upington, Northern Cape.