Senior Conservation Architect

Placements24; Mbombela (Nelspruit); On-site; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development

On-site position

Job summary

Placements24, on behalf of a heritage conservation consultancy in Nelspruit, seeks a Senior Conservation Architect to lead restoration, preservation and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. You will guide projects, advise on materials and techniques, ensure compliance with heritage legislation and ICOMOS standards, mentor junior staff, and oversee field work across Nelspruit and Mpumalanga.

This on-site role offers a competitive salary package and opportunities to preserve culturally

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Architecture with specialization in Conservation/Heritage Studies.
• Minimum 8 years’ architectural practice focusing on heritage conservation and restoration.
• Proven portfolio of conservation projects.
• Deep knowledge of architectural history, materials, and traditional methods.
• Familiarity with heritage legislation, listing processes, and conservation planning.
• Proficiency in drawing and documentation software.
• Strong research, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation and project management abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead conservation projects, including assessments, surveys and investigations.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans and detailed specs.
• Ensure compliance with national and international standards (ICOMOS).
• Liaise with heritage authorities, clients and contractors for project outcomes.
• Oversee conservation works, ensuring quality control and plans approval.
• Research and specify materials and traditional construction methods.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies and grant applications.
• Mentor junior architects and conservation specialists.

Skills

Heritage conservation

Project management

Communication

Leadership

Research & analysis

Problem solving

Education

Master's degree in Architecture with a specialization in Conservation or Heritage Studies

Tools

CAD software

Documentation software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a heritage conservation consultancy based in Nelspruit, is seeking a dedicated Senior Conservation Architect. This specialized role focuses on the sensitive restoration, preservation, and adaptive reuse of historical and culturally significant buildings. You will lead projects, providing expert advice on materials, techniques, and regulatory compliance to ensure the integrity and longevity of heritage assets. The position requires a deep appreciation for architectural history, meticulous attention to detail, and a strong understanding of conservation principles and practices. Join a team committed to safeguarding our built heritage within the Nelspruit, Mpumalanga region and beyond.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead conservation projects, including historic building assessments, condition surveys, and diagnostic investigations.
• Develop conservation strategies, restoration plans, and detailed specifications for heritage buildings.
• Ensure projects adhere to national and international conservation standards and guidelines (e.g., ICOMOS charters).
• Liaise with heritage authorities, clients, and contractors to achieve successful project outcomes.
• Oversee the execution of conservation works, ensuring quality control and adherence to approved plans.
• Research and specify appropriate materials and traditional building techniques for repairs and interventions.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, and grant applications for heritage projects.
• Mentor junior architects and conservation specialists in heritage practice.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Architecture with a specialization in Conservation or Heritage Studies.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in architectural practice, with a significant focus on heritage conservation and historic building restoration.
• Proven portfolio of successfully completed conservation projects.
• In-depth knowledge of architectural history, materials science, and traditional construction methods.
• Familiarity with heritage legislation, listing processes, and conservation planning.
• Proficiency in architectural drawing and documentation software.
• Excellent research, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and project management abilities.

Benefits

• This role offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical aid, and retirement fund benefits.
• Our client provides excellent opportunities for professional development and specialization in heritage conservation.
• You will have the chance to work on unique and historically significant projects in Nelspruit and surrounding areas, contributing to the preservation of cultural identity.
• This is an on-site position, fostering close collaboration with heritage specialists and site teams.