Senior Architect

Company Description Jakupa Architects and Urban Designers (JAKUPA) is an architecture and urban design practice focused on creating vibrant, equitable urban environments through thoughtful engagement with contemporary city life. The firm’s vision is grounded in humanistic values and in defining responsible roles for architecture and urbanism across social, ecological, and economic contexts. JAKUPA’s dynamic team combines academic and practical expertise, using research-driven design to address complex urban challenges.

The practice views city-making as inherently political and embraces its responsibility to promote productive, sustainable, and inclusive spaces, supported by conscientious design and progressive corporate policies. JAKUPA is proud of its 100% HDI status and its commitment to meaningful, transformative change. Role Description The Senior Architect will lead and coordinate architectural projects from concept through completion, ensuring design quality, technical rigor, and alignment with JAKUPA’s social and ecological values.

Day-to-day responsibilities include developing and reviewing architectural designs, preparing detailed drawings and documentation, and guiding project teams through design, approvals, and construction phases. The role involves collaborating with urban designers, consultants, and clients, managing project timelines and budgets, and overseeing integration of systems and technologies within architectural solutions. The Senior Architect will mentor junior team members, contribute to research-through-design initiatives, and support business development through design proposals and presentations.

This is a full-time, hybrid role based in the City of Cape Town, with a balance of in-studio collaboration and some work-from-home flexibility. Qualifications

• Strong foundation in Architecture and Architectural Design, with demonstrated experience delivering complex projects.
• Ability to collaborate on Integration of design, technical systems, and urban considerations within holistic project solutions.
• Proficiency in Project Management, including planning, coordination, stakeholder communication, and risk management.
• Comfort engaging with Software Development concepts and digital tools relevant to architecture (e.g., BIM, parametric design, interoperability between design platforms).
• Professional degree in Architecture and eligibility for professional registration; registration with the relevant architectural council is an advantage.
• Proficiency in industry-standard design and documentation software (e.g., Revit, AutoCAD, Rhino, Sketch Up, Adobe Creative Suite).
• Experience in urban design or socially responsive architecture, particularly within diverse and evolving urban contexts.
• Strong analytical, visual communication, and report-writing skills, with the ability to present ideas clearly to varied stakeholders.
• Proven ability to lead and mentor multidisciplinary teams, work in a hybrid environment, and manage multiple projects concurrently.