Senior Conservation Architect

Placements24; Bloemfontein; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement savings plan

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein seeks a Senior Conservation Architect to lead heritage restoration and conservation projects for historic buildings in the Free State. You will guide assessments, develop strategies, prepare specifications and drawings, and oversee restoration construction while ensuring cultural integrity.

You will mentor junior staff and collaborate with heritage consultants, engineers and regulators to uphold NHRA standards and international conservation charters.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years of professional architecture experience with 5+ years in heritage conservation.
• Proven expertise in heritage building analysis, conservation techniques and materials knowledge.
• Strong knowledge of SA heritage legislation (NHRA) and international conservation charters.

Responsibilities

• Lead assessment, planning and execution of conservation and restoration projects.
• Conduct historical research and detailed condition surveys of heritage buildings.
• Develop conservation management plans and detailed restoration strategies.
• Prepare specifications and drawings for heritage repairs and interventions.
• Oversee selection of materials and construction methods for conservation work.
• Ensure compliance with national and international heritage guidelines and legislation.
• Collaborate with heritage consultants, engineers, contractors and regulators.
• Manage project budgets, timelines and quality control for restoration projects.
• Provide expert advice on heritage matters and contribute to policy development.
• Mentor junior architects and technicians involved in conservation projects.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Project leadership

Historic building analysis

Stakeholder communication

Stakeholder engagement

Education

PrArch SACAP registration

Bachelors/Masters in Architecture

Tools

Architectural CAD

Documentation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, an esteemed architectural practice specializing in heritage preservation and adaptive reuse, is seeking a dedicated Senior Conservation Architect to join their team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role involves the sensitive and expert restoration, conservation, and revitalization of historical buildings and sites. You will lead projects, conduct detailed condition assessments, develop conservation strategies, and oversee the implementation of restoration works, ensuring that the cultural significance and integrity of heritage assets are meticulously maintained. The ideal candidate will have a deep passion for heritage architecture, a comprehensive understanding of conservation principles and techniques, and a proven ability to manage complex restoration projects. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to the preservation of cultural heritage in Bloemfontein and the surrounding Free State region.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the assessment, planning, and execution of architectural conservation and restoration projects.
• Conduct thorough historical research and detailed condition surveys of heritage buildings.
• Develop conservation management plans and detailed restoration strategies.
• Prepare specifications and drawings for heritage-sensitive repairs and interventions.
• Oversee the selection of appropriate materials and construction methods for conservation work.
• Ensure compliance with national and international heritage guidelines and legislation.
• Collaborate with heritage consultants, engineers, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Manage project budgets, timelines, and quality control for restoration projects.
• Provide expert advice on heritage matters and contribute to policy development.
• Mentor junior architects and technicians involved in conservation projects.

Requirements

• Professional Architect qualification (e.g., PrArch) registered with SACAP.
• A minimum of 8 years of professional experience in architecture, with a significant focus (5+ years) on heritage conservation and restoration.
• Demonstrated expertise in heritage building analysis, conservation techniques, and materials science.
• Strong knowledge of South African heritage legislation (e.g., NHRA) and international conservation charters.
• Proficiency in architectural design and documentation software.
• Experience in managing complex conservation projects from inception to completion.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience with heritage projects in Bloemfontein or the Free State province is highly valued.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid coverage, and a valuable retirement savings plan.
• Employees will have the opportunity to work on significant heritage projects within Bloemfontein, contributing directly to the preservation of South Africa's rich cultural landscape.
• The firm fosters a supportive and collaborative work environment, promoting professional growth and expertise in the specialized field of conservation architecture.
• This role provides a rewarding career path for those passionate about safeguarding our architectural heritage.