Senior Commercial Architect - Retail & Office Developments

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Competitive salary

Diverse high-profile projects

Professional development

Collaborative virtual team

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Commercial Architect to lead remote design teams across South Africa. You will drive the development of high‑end retail, office and mixed‑use projects from concept to construction documentation.

You will collaborate with clients and consultants, ensure design excellence, meet codes, and manage project scopes while leveraging Revit and AutoCAD. This is a fully remote role with flexibility and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Architecture or equivalent required.
• 7+ years' experience in commercial architecture (retail/office).
• Proficient in Revit and AutoCAD.
• Strong client-facing, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Portfolio of commercial projects showing leadership and delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead design development for commercial projects (retail, offices, mixed-use).
• Define project scope with clients, developers and stakeholders.
• Develop conceptual to construction documentation designs.
• Ensure designs meet functional, aesthetic, and commercial criteria.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and contractors.
• Specify materials, finishes and building systems for projects.
• Ensure compliance with codes, zoning, accessibility.
• Manage schedules, budgets and resources effectively.
• Prepare design proposals and reports for clients.
• Stay abreast of trends in commercial architecture and workplace strategy.

Skills

Client-facing communication

Negotiation

Project leadership

Remote work management

Education

Bachelor of Architecture degree or equivalent

Tools

Revit

AutoCAD

Job description

About the Role Our client, a distinguished architectural practice with a strong portfolio in commercial developments, is seeking an experienced Senior Commercial Architect to join their innovative team remotely. This pivotal role involves leading the design and execution of high-end retail spaces, modern office buildings, and mixed-use commercial projects. You will be instrumental in translating client visions into functional, aesthetically pleasing, and commercially viable architectural solutions. The ideal candidate will possess a keen understanding of market trends, tenant requirements, and the integration of technology within commercial environments. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful projects across South Africa, working from anywhere with a fully remote setup. You'll collaborate with a dynamic team, manage client relationships, and ensure the delivery of exceptional design outcomes that drive business success for our client's portfolio in the Western Cape and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design development for various commercial projects, including retail centers, office buildings, and mixed-use developments.
• Collaborate closely with clients, developers, and stakeholders to define project scope and objectives.
• Develop conceptual designs, schematic designs, and detailed construction documentation.
• Ensure designs meet functional requirements, aesthetic standards, and commercial viability.
• Coordinate with engineers, consultants, and contractors throughout the design and construction phases.
• Specify appropriate materials, finishes, and building systems for commercial applications.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant building codes, zoning regulations, and accessibility standards.
• Manage project schedules, budgets, and resource allocation effectively.
• Prepare and present design proposals and reports to clients.
• Stay abreast of the latest trends in commercial architecture, retail design, and workplace strategy.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Architecture degree or equivalent.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in commercial architecture, with a focus on retail and office spaces.
• Proven experience in leading design teams and managing commercial projects from concept to completion.
• Strong understanding of commercial real estate market dynamics and tenant needs.
• Proficiency in architectural design software, including Revit and AutoCAD.
• Excellent knowledge of building codes, zoning laws, and accessibility regulations in South Africa.
• Strong client‑facing, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently in a remote work environment.
• Experience with sustainable design practices is advantageous.Portfolio showcasing successful commercial projects is required.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Fully remote work arrangement, offering flexibility and work‑life balance.
• Opportunity to work on diverse and high‑profile commercial projects.
• Professional development and continuous learning support.
• Collaborative virtual team environment.
• Contribute to innovative commercial developments across South Africa.
• Access to advanced project management and design technologies.