Urban Designer

About the role

dhk Architects is seeking an Urban Designer to join its Cape Town studio. You will work on a variety of urban projects both locally and internationally, collaborating with architecture, landscape, and external consultancy teams.

Key responsibilities

• Manage urban design projects from concept through to final reports and visualisations.
• Integrate landscape and public‑realm design thinking into master plans and urban frameworks.
• Collaborate across disciplines to deliver sustainable, people‑centred environments.
• Engage with clients, municipalities and stakeholders on spatial development plans.
• Translate complex urban and environmental challenges into practical, innovative design solutions.
• Prepare compelling design reports, visualisations and presentations.
• Champion design excellence, sustainability and contextual responsiveness.

Required profile

• Post‑graduate qualification in Urban Design or Architecture with an urban‑design focus.
• Minimum 3 years post‑graduate experience in urban design.
• Robust portfolio showcasing urban frameworks, master plans and design reports.
• Registration with SACAP or UDISA is advantageous.
• South African citizenship is mandatory.
• Self‑driven, organised, detail‑oriented with strong interpersonal and leadership abilities.
• Passion for placemaking, spatial justice and sustainable urbanism.

Required skills

• Strong graphic, drawing and illustrative communication skills.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Suite and Microsoft Office.
• Report writing and strategic thinking capabilities.
• Ability to produce visual narratives and analytical mapping.
• GIS proficiency and Rhino or other parametric tools are advantageous.

What we offer

• Mentorship and development initiatives.
• A collaborative studio environment encouraging experimentation and leadership.
• Exposure to local and international urban projects.