Job Description

Project Architect
Department: Architecture & Design Services
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Reports To: Associate | Architecture & Design Services
Employment Type: Permanent
Purpose of the Role
The Project Architect is responsible for leading the technical and managerial delivery of multiple architectural projects from inception to close-out, ensuring exceptional design quality, accuracy, and timely execution.
This role requires a senior professional with comprehensive experience across architectural work stages 3 6, proven project leadership, and strong technical coordination abilities. The successful candidate will act as the principal agent or lead consultant on complex projects, collaborating closely with multidisciplinary teams and overseeing both design and site execution within the hospitality and experiential design sectors.
Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 or equivalent NQF Level 4 qualification.
• Master's in Architecture (MArch) or Master's in Architectural Technology (MTech).
• Minimum 8 years of relevant post-qualification architectural experience.
• Proven project lead experience, managing large-scale, multi-phase projects.
• Extensive experience across Architectural Work Stages 3 6.
• Experience acting as a Principal Agent or Lead Consultant.
• Demonstrated capability in project execution from inception to project close-out.
• Advanced proficiency in Autodesk Revit, BIM workflows, and the Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator).
• Experience in the hospitality sector and on-site construction coordination.
• South African citizen or eligible to work in South Africa.
• Must possess a valid passport and be available for international travel if required.
• Beneficial: International project experience.

Key Responsibilities
1. Project Leadership & Management

• Lead multiple complex architectural projects from early design through to completion.
• Manage all project phases - from inception, design development, documentation, and procurement to on-site execution and close-out.
• Serve as Principal Agent or Lead Consultant, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, consultants, and contractors.
• Oversee project budgets, schedules, and deliverables to ensure alignment with client and company objectives.
• Ensure project documentation and deliverables comply with statutory regulations, codes, and best practices.

2. Design & Technical Delivery

• Guide and refine design intent to achieve creative, functional, and sustainable solutions.
• Oversee the development of design and technical documentation in Revit and BIM environments.
• Ensure accuracy and coordination across all drawings, models, and specifications.
• Review and approve design submissions and technical outputs at key project milestones.
• Resolve design challenges proactively through collaboration and technical problem-solving.

3. Site Management & Quality Assurance

• Conduct site visits and lead coordination during construction phases to maintain design integrity and quality standards.
• Manage contractor queries, RFIs, and site-based decision-making to ensure timely resolution.
• Review and certify progress claims, variations, and project documentation as the Principal Agent.
• Conduct close-out processes, ensuring all as-built documentation, compliance certificates, and snag lists are completed.

4. Stakeholder & Client Engagement

• Act as the primary liaison between clients, consultants, and internal design teams.
• Lead client presentations, design reviews, and progress meetings.
• Develop and maintain strong, professional relationships with all project stakeholders.
• Communicate effectively and transparently regarding project status, risks, and deliverables.

5. Mentorship & Collaboration

• Supervise and mentor junior and intermediate architects and technologists.
• Promote a collaborative design environment focused on excellence and accountability.
• Contribute to refining internal design processes, standards, and best practices.

Core Competencies

• Strong design, technical, and project management skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple large-scale projects simultaneously.
• Deep knowledge of building regulations, contract administration, and project governance.
• Excellent proficiency in Revit, BIM, and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Strong leadership, delegation, and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to maintain quality under pressure.
• Strong understanding of the full architectural life cycle and construction processes.

Personal Attributes

• Strategic and solution-driven thinker with strong analytical judgment.
• Passionate about design quality, innovation, and sustainable architecture.
• Professional, reliable, and proactive team player.
• Adaptable to changing project demands and diverse cultural environments.
• Committed to continuous learning and professional excellence.

Benefits

• 5% Retirement Annuity (RA) Contribution.
• 21 Annual Leave Days, with 12 days allocated to the December builders' holiday.
• Quarterly Socials and Friday Tea for team connection and collaboration.
• Early Friday finish (2:00 PM) if work is completed.
• Hybrid work model 2 days remote work per week, after successful 6-month probation.

Skills Required