At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our architectural team and work on exciting projects across various sectors.
- Company: Mott MacDonald, a global consultancy focused on improving society.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, flexible benefits, and discounts.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for social networking.
- Why this job: Gain real-world experience and make a difference in architecture.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Architecture and a passion for design.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
An opportunity to join our growing architectural team in Bristol, Birmingham, Glasgow, or Manchester. We’re busy working on a wide variety of exciting projects across many markets for both public and private sector organisations. Our main markets are aviation, defence and transportation, but we also do interesting work in a number of other sectors such as education, energy and justice.
Our architectural team works at all RIBA stages, providing architectural services and technical support from conceptual study and planning stages to detailed technical information. We use BIM extensively in our projects, so Revit experience is beneficial for this position.
Our Part 1 industrial placement opportunities last six to 12 months and are carried out during a year out from university, after completion of a bachelor’s degree and before enrolling onto a postgraduate course. As an industrial placement student at Mott MacDonald, you’ll benefit from working for a large multidisciplinary organisation and be part of a dynamic team supporting our experienced architects and designers. You’ll constantly be exposed to real and exciting projects. We provide mentoring to architectural graduates, and you can really make the role your own. The more you get involved and the more questions you ask, the more you will gain from your experience with us.
This opportunity will require you to be eligible to achieve security clearance. This is dictated by the types of projects we work on and normally requires you to be a UK British national or to have lived in the UK for five years or more.
To apply for this position, we require a CV and sample portfolio. You can also include a cover letter, but this isn’t essential. We recommend that you apply as soon as possible, as we will close the role when the positions are filled.
Candidate Specification
In addition to completing a bachelor’s degree in Architecture, we’re looking for flexible and motivated postgraduates with a genuine passion for architecture and a desire to make a difference in the world. In your CV and portfolio, you should be able to demonstrate your interest through relevant experience, such as studying relevant modules or previous work experience.
Graduate Characteristics
- Good design skills and a keen interest in the built environment.
- Methodical approach to problem solving.
- Ability to use your initiative to undertake tasks efficiently and independently.
- Excellent verbal communication skills, allowing you to confidently liaise with clients and team members.
- Excellent written communication, attention to detail, and ability to produce accurate technical drawings and good report writing.
As we want the best people for the role, it is available as part-time or full-time. This flexibility can be discussed at interview stage.
Benefits
- Competitive salary above the living wage threshold.
- Contributory pension up to 7% of your salary.
- Flexible benefits scheme, including season ticket loans, restaurant discounts and gym membership.
Our Social & Professional Development
Being part of Mott MacDonald means more than just work – you’ll have the opportunity to expand your social and professional network, meet other graduates, and join local sports, social and charity events. You can also suggest new initiatives. Additional discounts on cinema tickets, travel, fashion, utilities, and more are available as part of company benefits.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, promoting fair employment practices and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Agile Working
We embrace agile, flexible working to meet client, team and personal commitments.
About Mott MacDonald
We’re a global engineering, management and development consultancy. Our purpose is to improve society by considering social outcomes in everything we do, relentlessly focusing on excellence and digital innovation. Our values: progress, respect, integrity, drive, excellence.
Details
- Locations: Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Manchester (GB).
- Contract Type: Contract.
- Work Pattern: Full Time.
- Market: Buildings.
- Discipline: Architecture.
- Job Ref: 14962.
- Recruiter Contact: earlycareers.recruitment@mottmac.com.
2026 UK Part 1 Architectural Assistant Career Path in Bristol employer: Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer for aspiring architects, offering a dynamic work environment across vibrant cities like Bristol, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Manchester. With a strong commitment to employee growth, you will benefit from mentoring, exposure to diverse projects, and a flexible working culture that promotes work-life balance. Our focus on equality, diversity, and inclusion ensures that every voice is heard, making it a truly rewarding place to kickstart your architectural career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Part 1 Architectural Assistant Career Path in Bristol
✨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 Mott MacDonald.
✨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 Mott MacDonald 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 Mott MacDonald 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 Mott MacDonald is looking for in a placement.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Part 1 Architectural Assistant Career Path in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Passion for Design:When applying for an architecture placement at Mott MacDonald, 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 Mott MacDonald.
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 Mott MacDonald. We love candidates who are keen to grow!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald
✨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 Mott MacDonald.
✨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 Mott MacDonald. 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.
