ARCHITECT PRODUCTION GRADE A

This position offers an exciting opportunity for a qualified and experienced professional architect to contribute to public sector infrastructure delivery within the Mpumalanga Provincial Government. Based at the Head Office, the Architect Production Grade A will operate within a structured, OSD-graded environment, providing expert architectural and cost management services to client departments and regional offices. The role sits within a broader framework of public sector construction and infrastructure governance, requiring a deep understanding of legislative compliance, financial control, and project delivery. The successful candidate will be expected to work across multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring that infrastructure initiatives are delivered on time, within budget, and in accordance with all relevant regulations and departmental policies.

Applicants must hold a Grade 12 certificate combined with a recognised architectural qualification at NQF level 7, such as a BTech in Architecture, Bachelor of Architectural Studies, Bachelor of Architecture, or Master of Architecture Professional, as recognised by SAQA. Compulsory registration as a Professional Architect with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP) is required in terms of the Architectural Profession Act, 2000. In addition, candidates need a minimum of five years of work experience as an architect, with at least three of those years gained after professional registration. A valid driver’s licence is also essential. The role demands sound knowledge of construction legislation and frameworks applicable to the public sector, including the PFMA, Treasury Regulations, the CIDB Act, GIAMA, Construction Regulations, and the National Building Regulations. Proficiency in quantity surveying software such as WinQS, along with AutoCAD, MS Project, and the Microsoft Office Suite, is expected. In-depth knowledge of cost planning, contract administration under JBCC, NEC and GCC forms, building cost norms, and lifecycle costing is also required. Strong analytical, planning, problem-solving, and report-writing skills are essential, as are excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication abilities. The capacity to manage multidisciplinary teams and handle multiple infrastructure projects concurrently is a key requirement.

The core duties of the role include providing professional quantity surveying and cost management services, ensuring financial control, value engineering, and cost optimisation across infrastructure projects. The architect will evaluate, appoint, and monitor the performance of consultants and contractors, ensuring compliance with departmental policies. Responsibilities also include managing the implementation and monitoring of construction contracts, certifying payments, and resolving contractual claims. The role involves conducting feasibility studies, developing cost estimates, and maintaining accurate project budgets and cash flows. The incumbent will undertake research and implement new methods, technologies, and sustainable solutions in infrastructure delivery, while ensuring alignment with the Infrastructure Delivery Management System (IDMS), the Infrastructure Procurement and Delivery Management (IPDM) toolkit, and relevant prescripts. Technical support in the preparation of tender documentation, bid evaluations, and adjudication processes forms an important part of the position.

Candidates should note several important conditions attached to this vacancy. Applications received after the closing date will generally not be accepted, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted applicants will be required to submit certified documents before the interview, and those with foreign qualifications must provide a SAQA evaluation report. Applicants must disclose any directorship, shareholding, or business dealings with an organ of state, as well as any additional remunerative work outside their normal duties. The selection process may include technical exercises, interviews, psychometric assessments, and pre-entry assessments covering practical suitability and integrity. The top two candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, including criminal record, citizenship, financial assets, qualifications, and employment background verification. The successful candidate will be required to enter into an Annual Performance Agreement and disclose financial interests annually. The department reserves the right not to make an appointment, and communication is limited to shortlisted candidates. If no response is received within three months of the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.