Chief Architect Grade A – Mbombela – Department Of Public Works And Infrastructure

Chief Architect Grade A at the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure in Mbombela, a vital government job in South Africa

About the Role

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is seeking a talented and dedicated Chief Architect Grade A for its Infrastructure Programme Delivery team, based in the vibrant city of Mbombela (Nelspruit). This pivotal role involves overseeing the architectural norms and standards that underpin all infrastructure programmes and projects within the department. By ensuring that these projects are not only functional but also aligned with the community’s needs, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the public service and contributing to the development of South Africa.

In this position, you will have the opportunity to manage facility planning and contribute to master planning, project briefs, and more. Your expertise will directly impact the community by helping to create safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environments that serve the public well. This is a chance to make a substantial difference in the lives of citizens through effective infrastructure development.

About the Department

The Department of Public Works and Infrastructure is dedicated to building and maintaining the essential infrastructure that supports South Africa’s growth and development. Its mission is to ensure that public assets are effectively managed to provide quality services to citizens. Working in this department means you will be part of a team that values innovation, sustainability, and community well-being, making your role vital to the country’s future.

What You’ll Do

  • Develop and implement architectural policies, strategies, and standards for infrastructure projects.
  • Prepare architectural inputs for comprehensive documents such as User Asset Management Plans and Project Lists.
  • Conduct facility planning and manage resources effectively to ensure project success.
  • Research and stay updated on new technologies relevant to the department’s goals.
  • Collaborate with professional development boards to enhance architectural practices within the department.

What You’ll Need

  • Senior Certificate / Grade 12 plus a recognized (NQF Level 7) qualification in Architecture.
  • A minimum of six years’ post-qualification experience in architecture.
  • Current registration with the South African Council for Architectural Profession (SACAP) as a Professional Architect (valid until 2026).
  • A valid driver’s license and proficiency in computer literacy.
  • Comprehensive knowledge of relevant legislation, including the Health Act, National Building Standards Act, and the Occupational Health and Safety Act.

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered.

Requirements

Senior Certificate / Grade 12 plus (NQF Level 7) in Architecture as recognized by SAQA.

Six (6) years’ experience post qualification.

Current registration with the South African Council for Architectural Profession (SACAP) as a Professional Architect (2026).

Valid driver’s licence.

Computer literacy.

Knowledge: Health Act and Regulations.

Construction Industry Development Board Act of 2000 and Regulations.

National Building Standards Act of 1977 and Regulations.

Architectural Profession Act of 2000.

PFMA, Treasury Regulations, Treasury Practice Notes and Circulars.

Government Immovable Asset Management Act of 2007.

Occupational Health and Safety Act of 1993 and Regulations.

Job Duties

Architectural functional and technical norms and standards.

Architectural policies, strategies, plans, procedures and criteria of all infrastructure programmes and projects.

Master Planning, Project Briefs, Business Cases, Accommodation Schedules and Operational Narratives.

Preparation of architectural inputs to the development of the User Asset Management Plan and Project List.

Manage facility planning.

Research/literature studies to keep up with new technologies, viability and feasibility of the geographical information management options for the Department including interaction with relevant professional development boards/councils.

Effective and efficient resources management.

Salary

R1 143 468 - R1 300 944 per annum

How to Apply

Please submit your application before the closing date as late applications will not be considered. Do not submit duplicate applications. If applying for multiple posts, submit separate applications for each post. Due to high volumes, the Department will not acknowledge receipt of applications. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you have not heard from us within 3 months, please consider your application to be unsuccessful. Should, during any stage of the recruitment process, a moratorium be placed on the filling of posts, or the Department is affected by any process such as, but not limited to, restructuring or reorganisation of posts, the Department reserves the right to cancel the recruitment process and re- advertise the post at any time in the future. Important: DOA is an equal opportunity employer committed to promoting representivity and affirmative action. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates. The Department reserves the right not to fill vacancies. By applying, you consent to the collection and processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes. Shortlisted candidates will be required to be available for assessments and interviews at a date and time as determined by the Department. Shortlisted candidates will undergo personnel suitability checks, security vetting and reference checks (including social media profiles). Applications must declare any pending criminal, disciplinary or any other allegations or investigations. Successful candidates must pass security clearance, sign an employment contract, sign an annual performance agreement and disclose financial interests. All applicants are required to declare any conflict or perceived conflict of interest, to disclose memberships of Boards and directorships that they may be associated with. Failure to disclose relevant information may result in disqualification or termination. ERRATUM: The position of Campus Manager Ref No: 3/3/1/49/2026 advertised in the Public Services Vacancy Circular no 24 of 2026 was published with the incorrect EE Targets; the correct EE Targets are African Males and Females, and persons with disability. Therefore, the submission of job applications will be accepted from 25 September 2026 until 09 October 2026 at 16:00 through the same application channels published under the Public Service Vacancy Circular 24 dated 10 July 2026. Withdrawal of Advertisement: The post of Senior Security Officer (reference: 3/3/1/83/2026), which was published in the Public Service Vacancy Circular number 32 dated 04 September 2026, closing 18 September 2026, has been withdrawn. 5 OTHER POSTS For Enquiries: Ms. Gugu Nkosi Tel No: (013) 766 3103 / Mr. Mxolisi Maseko Tel No: (013) 766 3351, Mr. Samson Nyoni Tel No: (013) 766 3087, Ms. Samukelisiwe Mgwenya Tel No: (013) 766 3540 and IT related queries: Help desk Tel No: (013) 766 3018.