At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative architectural projects and inspire teams in a dynamic studio environment.
- Company: JA Projects, a vibrant architecture studio shaping cities and cultural experiences.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working days, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Join a creative team making a real impact on public-facing projects across diverse sectors.
- Qualifications: ARB Registered Architect with relevant experience in managing multiple projects.
The predicted salary is between 35801 - 48540 £ per year.
JA Projects is seeking an Architect or Senior Architect to join our growing London studio. The ideal candidate will have considerable experience working in practice and a keen interest in public-facing projects across the board and the cultural sector. We are looking for someone who is able to marry conceptual innovation with technical rigour and has the capacity to lead and inspire.
For Senior Architect appointments, candidates should demonstrate experience leading multiple projects concurrently, managing project teams, and maintaining client relationships across a range of sectors. Founded by Jayden Ali, JA Projects is a London based Architecture and design studio with an office in New York, delivering large-scale mixed-use development, housing, estate regeneration, and masterplanning alongside internationally recognised cultural projects. The practice combines technical rigour with a strong social and cultural agenda, shaping cities as well as experiences.
Currently, our studio is working on a number of high‑profile projects across the arts, housing, community infrastructure, and public realm. These projects range in scale, from master‑planning and the design of urban blocks to rethinking cultural institutions and research. As well as contributing to the general studio culture, the successful candidate will lead projects across multiple sectors and stages, taking responsibility for design development and quality, technical coordination, client relationships, project management and performance.
JA Projects is an equal opportunity employer and believes the composition of those designing our world should be representative of the diversity of those living in it. As such, we welcome applicants of colour and those from traditionally under‑represented backgrounds. We’d love to hear from anyone who thinks this is for them, but please be mindful of the ESSENTIAL experience listed below.
Essential Experience- ARB Registered Architect with a minimum of 5 years in practice (Architect) or ARB Registered Architect minimum of 8 years in practice - including 3 years post part 3 (Senior Architect)
- Experience of all RIBA Stages (1‑6)
- Experience leading and managing a number of projects concurrently, across multiple sectors (Senior Architect)
- Experience working with both private and public‑facing clients (Local authority, institutions)
- Completed built projects at a moderate scale (small‑scale projects and interiors not appropriate)
- Urban Strategy/Visioning as well as delivery experience
- Excellent design, presentation, graphics, and drawing skills (hand‑drawn and digital)
- Ability to multitask, manage their own workload and different project threads
- Ability to manage project teams (internal colleagues and external consultants)
- Excellent project management and organisational skills
- Confident communicator
- Confidence in authoring reports, presentations, and other written material
- Ability to take initiative in response to direction
- Good interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team.
- A flexible and open attitude towards new ways of working and commitment to independent learning
- Calm under pressure
- Familiar with Adobe Creative Suite (PS, INDD, AI)
- Experienced in Vectorworks, Rhino, SketchUp, Revit (or other similar CAD software - please declare on CV)
- Have the Right To Work in the UK
Particulars
- Start date: By agreement (preferred mid‑late August)
- Working arrangement: 4–5 days/week
- Location: London
- Salary: £35,801–£48,540 (dependent on experience)
Architect and Senior Architect in London employer: JA Projects
JA Projects is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work environment in the heart of London. With a strong focus on innovative design and social impact, employees are encouraged to grow through diverse project opportunities and collaborative teamwork. The studio's commitment to diversity and equal opportunity ensures that all voices are heard, making it a rewarding place for architects passionate about shaping the future of our cities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Architect and Senior Architect in London
✨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 JA Projects 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 Architect and Senior Architect in London
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 JA Projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to JA Projects. 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 JA Projects
✨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 JA Projects.