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- Tasks: Support sustainable design and fabrication projects in collaboration with Wastesavers and Cardiff Met.
- Company: Join Cardiff Metropolitan University, a values-driven institution focused on community and career growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 20 days holiday, pension scheme, family-friendly policies, and wellness support.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the circular economy while developing your skills in a creative environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for sustainable design, strong research skills, and proficiency in design software.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for travel and professional development across South Wales.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 ÂŁ per year.
Join to apply for the SMART Partnership Associate (Design & Sustainable Fabrication) role at Cardiff Metropolitan University. To help achieve the goals of our Welsh Government funded SMART Partnership project, we’re looking for a Research Associate to support an exciting collaboration between Cardiff Metropolitan University and Wastesavers Charitable Trust Ltd. This role will play a key part in driving market development for Wastesavers through upcycling, skill sharing and networking within the circular economy. The role will be based at Wastesavers (primary Newport and across South Wales) and Cardiff Met Llandaff campus.
Responsibilities
- Support the business and research project through design and fabrication for the circular economy in consultation with the Principal Investigator.
- Conduct individual and collaborative research activities including workshops with Wastesavers staff and volunteers, network meetings and practical design work.
- Develop and apply design research techniques under supervision and self‑directed, using both traditional and digital tools.
- Use initiative and creativity to solve problems and deliver practical and business outcomes that support a sustainable business model.
- Present research progress and outcomes to project stakeholders and contribute to reports, publications and dissemination activities.
What you’ll bring
- Excellent organisational skills and a passion for sustainable design.
- Creativity and analytical thinking, with the ability to apply traditional and digital design techniques.
- Strong research skills to shape a sustainable retail model for the circular economy.
- Knowledge of research methods and sustainable fabrication to deliver impactful outcomes.
- Initiative and problem‑solving skills to identify opportunities for market innovation.
- Clear communication of complex ideas through reports, presentations and workshops.
- Proficiency in IT tools, including Microsoft Office, Adobe CC, CAD/CAM software and digital media platforms.
- Evidence of design‑led commercial and/or research projects.
- Willingness to travel between campuses and company sites.
Benefits
- 20 days plus bank holidays, with an additional day per year served up to 5 days, plus corporate volunteer days and birthday leave.
- Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Family‑friendly policies.
- Opportunities to learn and develop skills with library and digital services.
- Excellent sports and fitness facilities with subsidised membership.
- Free family access to specialist wellbeing support provider, Health Assured.
Why join Cardiff Metropolitan University?
We are a values‑based University that supports inclusion, community spirit and career development.
Contact
For more information about the role please contact Jon Pigott jpigott@cardiffmet.ac.uk or Aleksandra Janusiewicz, Recruitment Advisor AJanusiewicz2@cardiffmet.ac.uk. All applications must be submitted online. The person specification will be used as a tool for shortlisting; please use this information when writing your application. You can find useful hints and tips about how to apply on our Application Guidance page.
Employment details
- Seniority level: Entry level
- Employment type: Full-time
- Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
- Industry: Higher Education
SMART Partnership Associate (Design and Sustainable Fabrication) in Cardiff employer: Cardiff Metropolitan University
Contact Detail:
Cardiff Metropolitan University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SMART Partnership Associate (Design and Sustainable Fabrication) in Cardiff
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that SMART Partnership Associate role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your design and sustainable fabrication projects. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to the table and how you can contribute to the circular economy.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Cardiff Metropolitan University and Wastesavers. Understand their goals and values, and think about how your skills align with their mission. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets it.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you nail your application and get noticed.
We think you need these skills to ace SMART Partnership Associate (Design and Sustainable Fabrication) in Cardiff
Some tips for your application 🫡
Know the Role: Before you start writing, make sure you really understand what the SMART Partnership Associate role is all about. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills. This will help us tailor your application to show how you fit perfectly!
Show Your Passion: We love seeing enthusiasm for sustainable design! Make sure to express your passion in your application. Share any relevant experiences or projects that showcase your commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.
Be Clear and Concise: When it comes to written applications, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We want to see your ideas shine through without getting lost in complicated wording!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the role. This shows us that you’ve put in the effort and are genuinely interested in joining our team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff Metropolitan University
✨Know Your Circular Economy Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the principles of the circular economy and how they relate to design and sustainable fabrication. Be ready to discuss how your skills can contribute to market development for Wastesavers and how you can apply innovative solutions in this area.
✨Show Off Your Creative Side
Prepare to showcase your creativity and problem-solving skills. Think of examples from past projects where you used traditional and digital design techniques to achieve impactful outcomes. This will help demonstrate your fit for the role and your passion for sustainable design.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
Since you'll need to present research progress and outcomes, practice explaining complex ideas clearly and concisely. Use visuals if possible, and be prepared to answer questions about your work and how it aligns with the goals of the SMART Partnership project.
✨Get Familiar with the Tools
Make sure you're comfortable with the IT tools mentioned in the job description, like Microsoft Office, Adobe CC, and CAD/CAM software. If you have any experience with these tools, be ready to discuss how you've used them in previous projects or research activities.
