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- Tasks: Support design teams on exciting landscape and architectural projects across the UK and beyond.
- Company: Join Gillespies LLP, a creative studio with a diverse and innovative team.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, develop your skills, and work in a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Freelance role with opportunities for professional growth and creativity.
- Why this job: Perfect for recent grads eager to make an impact in design and explore new technologies.
- Qualifications: Ideal for those with a passion for design and some experience in landscape or architecture.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 35000 ÂŁ per year.
About the opportunity
We are looking for a talented Graduate/Assistant‑level designer, welcoming applications from Landscape Architects or Architects, with strong visual, design and technical curiosity, to join our creative studio on a freelance / contract basis. This role is suitable for recent graduates or early‑career professionals (typically 6–18 months experience is advantageous) who are eager to develop their practice skills while contributing to real projects across the UK and internationally. If you are passionate about design, enjoy working across scales, and want hands‑on exposure to real project delivery within a collaborative studio environment, we would like to hear from you.
About us
Gillespies LLP is a diverse and free‑thinking team of landscape architects, masterplanners and urban designers. We believe great places are created when people, nature and design intelligence work in balance. While technology is transforming design practice, we value the human insight, creativity and storytelling that shape enduring environments. Our work spans large‑scale landscape, public realm and urban regeneration projects in the UK and internationally.
Role scope
You will support project teams in a design‑led, professional studio environment. Typical activities may include:
- Preparation of presentation materials across digital, 3D and graphic media
- Development of drawings and packages for planning, technical, tender and construction stages
- Conceptual sketching, illustrative design and visualisation support
- Contribution to design research, precedent studies, materials exploration and technical references
- Drafting, setting up and amending drawings in accordance with studio CAD/BIM standards
- Project file management, drawing issue coordination, printing and documentation control
- Participation in internal design discussions and project meetings
- Fieldwork, site surveys and research tasks where required
Design, digital and emerging technology skills
We are particularly interested in candidates who are curious about how digital innovation and AI‑assisted workflows are shaping modern design practice. You should demonstrate an interest in:
- Design exploration using emerging digital tools
- 3D Visualisation, graphic communication and workflow optimisation
- Data‑informed design research and analysis
- Experimentation with new design technologies within a studio environment
Freelance working considerations
This is a freelance / contract role. Candidates should therefore be able to confirm:
- Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance coverage appropriate to freelance design work
- Familiarity with industry‑standard design tools used in landscape and architectural practice
- Access to your own laptop and business licensed core design software
Software list:
- Essential: Adobe Creative Cloud (with access to Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator as a minimum), Microsoft 365 or Studio 2019 with MS Teams, AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
- Desirable based on project requirements: Autodesk Revit, Autodesk Navisworks
Graduate/Assistant Designer - Freelancer employer: Gillespies
Contact Detail:
Gillespies Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate/Assistant Designer - Freelancer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow designers, attend industry events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on freelance opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a stunning portfolio that highlights your best work, especially projects that align with landscape architecture or urban design. Make sure it’s easy to access and share online.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to studios like Gillespies LLP. Express your interest in freelance roles and showcase how you can contribute to their projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on design trends and tools! Familiarise yourself with the latest software and technologies in landscape architecture. This will not only boost your skills but also make you more appealing to potential clients.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate/Assistant Designer - Freelancer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for design shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for landscape architecture and how it drives your work. Share any projects or experiences that highlight your love for the field.
Tailor Your Portfolio: Make sure your portfolio is tailored to the role. Include projects that showcase your skills in digital tools, 3D visualisation, and any innovative design techniques you've used. We love seeing creativity, so don’t hold back!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your written application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points where necessary to highlight your skills and experiences, making it easier for us to see why you’d be a great fit.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our creative team at Gillespies LLP.
How to prepare for a job interview at Gillespies
✨Know Your Design Tools
Make sure you're familiar with the essential software listed in the job description, like Adobe Creative Cloud and AutoCAD. Brush up on your skills and be ready to discuss how you've used these tools in your projects.
✨Showcase Your Curiosity
Gillespies LLP values curiosity about design and technology. Prepare examples of how you've explored new design methods or technologies in your work or studies. This will show your passion for the field and your eagerness to learn.
✨Prepare a Portfolio
Have a well-organised portfolio ready that highlights your best work. Include a variety of projects that demonstrate your design skills, technical abilities, and any collaborative efforts. Be prepared to discuss your thought process behind each piece.
✨Engage in the Conversation
During the interview, don't just answer questions—ask them too! Show your interest in Gillespies LLP's projects and their approach to design. This will help you stand out as someone who is genuinely interested in being part of their team.