At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to assist with exciting commercial building projects and gain hands-on experience.
- Company: Colliers, a global leader in commercial real estate services.
- Benefits: Gain valuable skills, mentorship, and potential graduate opportunities after your degree.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a focus on learning and professional development.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in Building Surveying with real-world experience and a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Pursuing a RICS-accredited degree in Building Surveying; strong communication and analytical skills required.
Join our Project & Building Consultancy team and gain hands‑on experience across commercial projects of varying size and complexity. You will support qualified surveyors with inspections, reporting and project tasks under close supervision, building evidence towards RICS competencies and developing core technical and commercial skills.
Our strengthened team across the UK has expertise in all areas of Commercial Project and Building Consultancy in our London Office. We are a fun dynamic team offering fantastic placements for Sandwich Students. You would be involved in a broad range of activities for interesting clients and the opportunity to return as a graduate following the completion of your degree.
Our Emerging Talent Training Programme will provide you with a first‑class platform from which to launch your career in Building Surveying. It has been designed to ensure that you are able to demonstrate the required level of knowledge, skills and behaviours associated with becoming an RICS qualified Building Surveyor.
Main Responsibilities
- Site inspections and surveys. Assist inspections nationwide. Record measurements, photographs and defect notes; support building pathology and technical due diligence and highlight ESG and life‑cycle considerations to the lead surveyor.
- Reporting and deliverables. Draft sections of survey reports, schedules of condition, planned preventive maintenance (PPM) schedules and reinstatement cost assessments; check accuracy and help issue to agreed deadlines.
- Dilapidations support. Help compile evidence, maintain trackers and prepare draft schedules under supervision; observe negotiations.
- Contract administration and project monitoring. Assist with scopes/specifications, tender documentation and analysis; track programme, cost and quality; take minutes; support snagging and handover activities.
- Landlord and tenant matters. Provide support on Licences to Alter and related approvals including technical reviews and information coordination.
- Health safety and compliance. Follow CDM 2015 and company procedures; contribute to risk assessments and method statements; uphold site standards.
- Information management and digital tools. Maintain organised files and trackers; mark up drawings and specifications; use MS Office; exposure to CAD/Bluebeam is advantageous.
- Learning and development. Participate in the Emerging Talent Programme; keep an experience log aligned to Assessment of Professional Competence (APC); seek feedback and engage in CPD activities set by the Training & Development team.
Qualifications and Experience
- Degree 2 : 2 or above. It is essential that an applicant already has or is working towards the completion of a RICS‑accredited BSc/MSc in Building Surveying (completed or completing this academic year) or a RICS‑accredited masters conversion course.
- GCSEs English and Maths at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent).
- Right to work in the UK for the duration of the programme beginning September 2026. Please note that we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.
- Clear written and verbal communication, strong attention to detail and an analytical mindset with sound numeracy.
- Prioritisation and time management skills to successfully balance competing priorities and ensure work is completed in a timely manner.
- A proactive team player who takes ownership and seeks feedback and grows with us.
- Relevant industry experience (e.g. placement internship site work) is desirable but not essential.
- Willingness to travel within the UK; a full UK driving licence is desirable.
- Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint. Experience with CAD/Bluebeam/Microsoft Project is advantageous.
Location
This placement is for Manchester.
Application Process and EEO
Applications are regularly reviewed and early applications are strongly encouraged. We reserve the right to close the job posting before the deadline depending on the volume of applications received.
Apply by 7 November 2025 19:00 (UK time)
Colliers is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and a Disability Confident Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments in line with the Equality Act 2010.
Remote Work: No
Employment Type: Full‑time
Manchester Sandwich Student Building Surveying (12-month Placement, 2026 Intake) employer: Colliers International EMEA
Colliers is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters professional growth and development. As part of the Project & Building Consultancy team in Manchester, you will gain invaluable hands-on experience while being supported by qualified surveyors, all within a dynamic environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. With access to our Emerging Talent Training Programme, you'll be well-equipped to launch your career in Building Surveying, making this placement not just a job, but a meaningful step towards your future.
Contact Details:
Colliers International EMEA Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Manchester Sandwich Student Building Surveying (12-month Placement, 2026 Intake)
✨Leverage University Connections
We all know that universities have a ton of connections in the architecture world. Don't hesitate to tap into your career services or attend any networking events they host. Alumni from your school can also be a real goldmine for placements, so reach out and see if they can help you get a foot in the door at firms like Colliers International EMEA.
✨Get Involved in Local Design Competitions
Joining local architecture competitions is a great way to showcase your skills while meeting industry professionals. Not only can you gain valuable experience, but winning or even just participating can make your application stand out when you're applying for placements. Check if Colliers International EMEA sponsors or participates in any events!
✨Show Off Your Design Projects Online
Build an online portfolio that highlights your best designs and projects. Platforms like Behance or personal websites are perfect for this. Make sure to link your portfolio in your application or share it during discussions, so firms like Colliers International EMEA can easily see what you bring to the table.
✨Research and Tailor Your Approach
Before you approach firms, dive deep into their past projects, values, and design philosophy. Tailor your conversations and applications based on what interests you about them. This not only shows genuine interest but also helps you align your skills with what Colliers International EMEA is looking for in a placement.
We think you need these skills to ace Manchester Sandwich Student Building Surveying (12-month Placement, 2026 Intake)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Design:When applying for an architecture placement at Colliers International EMEA, let your love for design shine through! Use your cover letter to narrate your journey in architecture—mention any inspiring projects, competitions, or experiences that have fuelled your passion. This will help us see your commitment to the field.
Highlight Relevant Academic Projects:In the architecture world, your portfolio is a big deal! Make sure it showcases not just completed projects but also relevant academic work. Include sketches, models, and any software you’ve mastered, like AutoCAD or Revit. This gives us a glimpse of your skills and thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture Standards:Architecture CVs should be specific and elegant. Use a clear layout with sections for education, skills, and experience. Make sure to include any design software you’re proficient in, presentation skills, and even group projects you were involved in—these are super relevant for a placement at Colliers International EMEA.
Express Your Willingness to Learn:Since this is a placement, we’re looking for eager minds ready to absorb knowledge. In your cover letter, convey your openness to learning from experienced team members and how you aim to apply that knowledge practically at Colliers International EMEA. We love candidates who are keen to grow!
How to prepare for a job interview at Colliers International EMEA
✨Show Off Your Portfolio
Bring along a robust portfolio that showcases your best architectural designs and projects. Make sure it highlights your thought process and execution—interviewers love to hear about your design rationale and how you've tackled challenges in your projects. It's a brilliant way to demonstrate your creativity and technical skills!
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions about architectural principles, materials, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of building codes or environmental design practices. This shows you've got the technical know-how needed for the role and you're ready to dive into the work at Colliers International EMEA.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Architecture
As this is a placement, your potential and motivation are key! Share your enthusiasm for architecture and the design process. Talk about what inspired you to pursue this field and any previous projects you've worked on, even if they are from your studies—this can help convey that you've got the passion to thrive in this environment!
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Craft questions that reflect your genuine interest in the projects at Colliers International EMEA. For instance, ask about the firm's design philosophy or the types of projects they currently have on the go. This not only shows you've done your homework but also helps you understand if the company aligns with your career goals.
