Job Description

SVA International, one of Africa's leading architectural firms and a member of the GIBB Group of Companies, aim to provide comprehensive solutions to property developers and contractors' clients. As a subsidiary, SVA International retains a range of building service capabilities covering engineering expertise, architecture, environmental and sustainability, urban design tenant management and building management systems.



We are looking for a highly skilled

Professional Architect or Senior Architectural Technologist

to complement our team. The successful candidate will bring experience as a JBCC Principal Agent, strong expertise in supermarket and retail tenant fit-outs and demonstrated proficiency across PROCSA Stages 3 to 6.



We welcome your application if you believe you meet the requirements for this position.

Key Performance Areas

Lead and manage projects across PROCSA Stages 3 to 6, ensuring high-quality design development, coordination, documentation and delivery. Act as JBCC Principal Agent, overseeing project administration, contract management, site coordination and stakeholder communication. Produce detailed design and technical documentation for supermarket and retail tenant fit-outs, ensuring adherence to client, operator and brand standards. Coordinate inputs from all consultants--structural, mechanical, electrical, fire, wet services, QS, and tenant coordination--ensuring seamless integration into architectural documentation packages. Oversee the preparation, checking, and issuing of detailed construction drawings, specifications, schedules, and technical information for both base builds and tenant fit-outs. Manage RFIs, shop drawings, contractor queries, and technical compliance reviews throughout the construction and fit-out phases. Conduct regular site inspections to ensure work is executed according to approved drawings and specifications, and identify, record, and resolve technical issues promptly. Monitor quality, detailing standards, services coordination, and compliance with project performance criteria, building regulations, and contractual obligations Lead coordination meetings, resolve clashes between disciplines, and update documentation based on changes from consultants, contractors, and clients. Maintain and manage all project documentation, instructions, registers, logs, and revision histories to ensure complete and accurate project records. Provide technical guidance, oversight, and task coordination to junior team members to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance with project standards. Carry out additional duties related to project coordination, technical delivery, and contract administration as required.

Job Requirements

Qualification:


Bachelor's or Master's degree in Design and Architecture or an Advanced Diploma in Architectural Technology (AdArchT). Professional SACAP registration.

Experience:


Minimum 5 years of experience in the field.

Person Requirements

Core Competencies


Proven technical experience delivering supermarket and retail tenant fit-outs across varying scales and complexities. Demonstrated ability to work effectively within multidisciplinary design and consultant teams, ensuring seamless technical coordination. Strong understanding of construction detailing, building regulations, services coordination, and technical standards relevant to retail environments. Demonstrated track record of delivering technically sound projects on time, within budget, and in alignment with client, operator and brand requirements. Ability to lead and coordinate work across PROCSA Stages 3-6, including design development, technical documentation, contract administration, and site coordination. Experience acting as a JBCC Principal Agent, with solid knowledge of contract administration, issuing instructions, managing RFIs, and coordinating site activities. High level of diligence and attention to detail, particularly in technical documentation, quality assurance, and coordination processes. Advanced Autodesk Revit user, with strong capability in model management, technical detailing, scheduling, keynotes, design options, and integrated documentation workflows from feasibility to construction. Proficient in design and documentation tools such as SketchUp or FormIt, Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator), Autodesk Forma, and quick-visualisation software such as Twinmotion for Revit, Lumion or Enscape. Minimum working knowledge of collaboration platforms BIM360 and ACC is essential.

Additional competencies


Enthusiastic approach and passion for architectural design excellence and presentation of architectural projects. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with team members, external consultants and clients. Capacity to delegate, lead and manage work to and from junior team members. Strong project management abilities, including the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and adapt to changing priorities. Adaptability to change and ability to think laterally in a becalmed scenario.

Additional Information:

The remuneration package, which includes medical aid, pension and group life cover will be commensurate with experience.



If shortlisted, SVA would like to setup an interview with candidates to assess skills and character.



Recommended starting date is January or February 2026, or sooner.



This position is for a Permanent placement in the Cape Town office. Candidates should be in Cape Town and be able to attend the office.



Employment equity will be considered.