At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our design team and assist with real projects across various sectors.
- Company: Arcadis, a leading multi-disciplinary design firm with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, technical training, and support for personal and professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion while enjoying excellent career opportunities.
- Why this job: Make an impact in architecture while working on exciting projects with diverse teams.
- Qualifications: RIBA Part 1 architectural degree or equivalent, strong design skills, and teamwork ability.
The predicted salary is between 18000 - 25000 € per year.
Application Closing Date 28th June 2026 – Please note we reserve the right to close roles sooner, so early application is encouraged.
Our Placement programme is designed to give you a hands‑on insight into the work we do as a company and help develop skills and knowledge within your chosen field. Supported by signposted training, the programme is based on Arcadis’ core values, giving you technical training and support to help you develop both personally and professionally while with us. You will be exposed to real projects and clients and given a range of experiences to immerse yourself into over a 12‑month placement.
We are seeking a Part 1 Architectural Assistant to join our growing multi‑disciplinary design team in the UK, with offices in London, Brighton, Manchester and Cardiff. The role involves assisting across a range of project activities including feasibility studies, concept and detailed designs, and detailed planning applications. The work covers commercial, residential, education, healthcare, government & civic, and industrial sectors, both in the UK and abroad.
Responsibilities:
- Assist with feasibility studies, concept and detailed design, and detailed planning application submissions.
- Support project teams across multiple sectors and project stages.
- Produce design drawings, graphic communication and presentation materials.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and external stakeholders.
Application requirements:
- RIBA Part 1 (or equivalent) architectural degree.
- CV and portfolio or work sample submitted with the application (max file size 10 MB).
- Strong design, graphic communication and presentation skills (evidenced in the portfolio).
- Excellent written and spoken English.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Software skills are advantageous, including:
- Revit / BIM
- Adobe Creative Suite (e.g., Photoshop, InDesign)
- 3D visualisation tools (e.g., Enscape, V‑Ray, SketchUp)
- MS Office (Word, Excel)
Qualifications & experience:
- Graduating in 2026 or having recently graduated with an architectural degree equivalent to RIBA Part 1.
- Demonstrated resilience, creativity, analytical thinking and team‑player behaviour.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to use technical knowledge to influence and consult stakeholders.
- Willing to travel and stay away from home when required, with virtual working embraced when possible.
Equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging:
We are committed to equality, diversity, inclusion and belonging. We want everyone to be able to bring their best self to work each day, and we hold ourselves accountable for our actions. Our ambition is to be an employer of choice and provide a great place to work for all. We believe diverse people with different experiences produce the most innovative ideas. Equality, diversity and inclusion is at the heart of how we improve quality of life and we work closely with our people across six ED&I workstreams: Age, Disability, Faith, Gender, LGBT+ and Race. A diverse and skilled workforce is essential to our success.
12-Month Work Placement - Architecture Part 1 employer: Arcadis
Arcadis is an exceptional employer that prioritises the personal and professional development of its employees through a comprehensive 12-month placement programme. With a strong commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion, Arcadis fosters a collaborative work culture where innovative ideas thrive, offering hands-on experience across various sectors in vibrant UK locations such as London, Brighton, Manchester, and Cardiff. Employees benefit from technical training, exposure to real projects, and opportunities for growth within a supportive multi-disciplinary design team.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 12-Month Work Placement - Architecture Part 1
✨Tip Number 1
Get your portfolio in tip-top shape! Make sure it showcases your best work and highlights your design skills. Remember, this is your chance to shine, so include a variety of projects that demonstrate your versatility.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or past employees on LinkedIn, attend industry events, or join relevant groups. Building connections can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions and showcasing your knowledge about the company. We want to see your passion for architecture and how you align with our values, so do your homework!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of us. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and eager to join our team.
We think you need these skills to ace 12-Month Work Placement - Architecture Part 1
Some tips for your application 🫡
Start with a Strong CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your architectural degree, relevant skills, and any experience that showcases your design and communication abilities. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the role!
Craft an Engaging Portfolio:Your portfolio is your chance to shine! Include your best work that demonstrates your design skills and creativity. Make sure it’s well-organised and visually appealing, as this reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to align your skills and experiences with what we’re looking for in the job description. Show us how you can contribute to our projects and fit into our team culture.
Apply Early Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply as soon as possible through our website. Early applications are more likely to be considered, and it shows your enthusiasm for the role. Don’t wait until the last minute – get your application in today!
How to prepare for a job interview at Arcadis
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can discuss every piece in your portfolio confidently. Be prepared to explain your design choices, the processes you followed, and how you collaborated with others. This shows your passion and understanding of your work.
✨Research the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with Arcadis’ core values and recent projects. Understanding their approach to equality, diversity, and inclusion will help you align your answers with what they value, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Brush up on your technical knowledge related to architectural design and software tools like Revit and Adobe Creative Suite. Be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your studies or previous experiences, as this will demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Practice Collaborative Scenarios
Since teamwork is key in this role, think of examples where you've successfully worked in a team. Prepare to discuss how you handle feedback and contribute to group projects, showcasing your ability to collaborate effectively.
