At a Glance
- Tasks: Support project teams in designing and delivering innovative architectural projects.
- Company: Join a values-led, employee-owned architectural practice with a strong sense of purpose.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days holiday, workplace pension, and wellbeing initiatives.
- Other info: Opportunity for real responsibility and career growth in a dynamic studio.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience and develop your skills in a collaborative environment.
- Qualifications: Knowledge of architectural design principles and experience with design software.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
The Part 2 Architectural Assistant will support project teams across all RIBA work stages, contributing to the design and delivery of projects. Proactively collaborating with other members of the Buttress team and with external design disciplines, you will work within well-defined functional objectives and apply knowledge of improvements in technology, legislation or improved efficiencies to support effective delivery. In addition to the general duties and tasks, you are expected to promote and exemplify Buttress’ values and purpose.
Key responsibilities
- Act as or assist the design team leader to prepare, manage and coordinate all activities as required to meet RIBA workstages 1 to 7 as identified in the project brief.
- Assist other members of the project team with the delivery of projects.
- Support the design and specification of building projects in accordance with current guidelines, standards and regulations.
- Support the project lead in coordinating and leading the activities of multidisciplinary design teams and colleagues.
- Support the project lead, helping to ensure that they are delivered within time and budget to the quality expectations.
- Lead multidisciplinary design teams as the project architect on small size projects in support of a senior colleague.
- Contribute to the coordination and guidance of multidisciplinary design teams, under senior direction.
- Support the management of projects through planning applications, building regulations and listed consent as applicable.
- Lead discussions related specifically to Architectural and related issues.
- Assist in forward fee forecasting, invoicing and project profitability monitoring.
Client Engagement & Professional Practice
- Proactively engage with clients to provide a high standard of service within commercial constraints.
- Demonstrate commitment to Buttress and our clients, which may from time to time require you to work beyond normal working hours.
How You’ll Work
- Working collaboratively with colleagues across the studio.
- Supporting a values-led, employee-owned business.
About you
We’re looking for someone who:
- Has demonstrable knowledge of the application, principles, theory and practice of Architectural design and delivery.
- Has experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Sketch-up, Photoshop, InDesign and Microsoft Office.
- Has the ability to communicate clearly and confidently with colleagues, consultants and clients.
You don’t need to know everything from day one; curiosity and a willingness to get stuck in matter just as much as experience.
Be part of an employee-owned practice with a strong sense of purpose
A role with real variety and responsibility. Opportunity to develop skills across studio operations and administration.
What we offer
- Workplace pension with employer contributions and an optional salary sacrifice scheme.
- 30 days holiday (including bank holidays) with full closure over the Christmas period.
- Employee Assistance Programme, currently through Vitality.
- Annual staff trip with travel and accommodation paid by the business.
- Free annual flu vaccinations.
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave.
- Wellbeing initiatives and mental health first aiders.
Part 2 Architectural Assistant in Manchester employer: Buttress
Buttress is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and values-led work culture, making it an ideal place for a Part 2 Architectural Assistant to thrive. With a strong commitment to employee ownership, we offer ample opportunities for professional growth, a generous benefits package including 30 days of holiday and enhanced parental leave, and a supportive environment that prioritises wellbeing and development. Join us in a role that promises variety, responsibility, and the chance to contribute meaningfully to innovative architectural projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Part 2 Architectural Assistant in Manchester
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from Buttress who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Part 2 Architectural Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at Buttress!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to Buttress. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Buttress
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at Buttress.
