At a Glance
- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in architecture while working on real projects.
- Company: Join Mott MacDonald, a leading firm committed to equality and inclusion.
- Benefits: Paid summer placement with competitive hourly rate and flexible working.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for growth and networking.
- Why this job: Learn from industry experts and kickstart your career in architecture.
- Qualifications: Must be entering final year of master's in Architecture by September 2026.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
We are excited to offer a paid summer placement within our Architectural team for a period of six weeks starting in August. This placement will provide you with the chance to gain hands-on experience and work closely with our talented teams in Glasgow, Manchester, or Sheffield.
If you’re invited to an interview, this is when we will discuss in more detail the specifics of the job role you applied for and what it involves. You’ll be working with graduates, experienced professionals, and other students so a placement with us is the perfect opportunity to learn from a variety of people while understanding our values and culture. It’s also a great chance to get involved with real projects while gaining relevant experience. The more you get involved and the more questions you ask, the more you will gain from your experience with us.
To apply for this position, we require a CV and sample portfolio – you’ll be prompted to submit this as part of the application process. You can also include a cover letter, but this isn't essential. To avoid missing out, we recommend that you apply as soon as possible as we will close when the positions have been filled.
This opportunity is for those who will go into their final year master's (Architecture) in September 2026. We are looking for students with the following 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, which allow you to confidently liaise with clients and team members.
- Excellent written communication and attention to detail and be able to demonstrate accurate technical drawings and good report writing.
We’re looking for highly motivated students who are passionate about learning from our industry experts. You’ll be given the opportunity to gain invaluable experience working on some of the exciting projects that are helping to shape tomorrow’s world. We understand that to put your learning into practice it’s important that you’re given an accurate insight into our innovative industry. With enough work placement experience under your belt you can get just that. Think of it as a worthwhile investment towards your future career.
We place a lot of emphasis on giving you a realistic view of our world, so you can decide if it’s the industry you want to work in. Many of the employees that we recruit for our graduate schemes are students that have made an impression during their placements with us, so remember, this could be the start of a promising career for you with Mott MacDonald.
We are a living wage employer so we offer a great hourly rate for your placement with us.
We put equality, diversity and inclusion at the heart of our business, seeking to promote fair employment procedures and practices to ensure equal opportunities for all. We encourage individual expression in our workplace and are committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they have the opportunity to contribute.
At Mott MacDonald, we believe it makes business sense for you and your manager to choose how you can work most effectively to meet your client, team and personal commitments. We embrace agility, flexibility and trust.
2026 UK Summer Placement: Architecture in Glasgow employer: Mott MacDonald
Mott MacDonald is an exceptional employer that prioritises hands-on learning and professional growth, offering a paid summer placement in Architecture across vibrant locations like Glasgow, Manchester, and Sheffield. With a strong emphasis on equality, diversity, and inclusion, you will thrive in a supportive work culture that encourages individual expression and collaboration with industry experts. This opportunity not only allows you to engage in real projects but also positions you for future career prospects within a company that values your contributions and invests in your development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 2026 UK Summer Placement: Architecture in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company before your interview! Research their projects, values, and culture. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your communication skills! Since you'll be working with a diverse group, being able to express your ideas clearly is key. Try mock interviews with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive during your placement! Ask questions, seek feedback, and get involved in as many projects as you can. The more you engage, the more you'll learn and impress your colleagues.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team and ready to take that first step towards an exciting career.
We think you need these skills to ace 2026 UK Summer Placement: Architecture in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Stellar CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your design skills and any relevant experience in the built environment. Keep it clear, concise, and tailored to the role – we want to see what makes you stand out!
Show Off Your Portfolio:A sample portfolio is a must! Include your best work that showcases your design abilities and technical skills. Make sure it’s well-organised and visually appealing – we love seeing creativity in action!
Nail the Cover Letter (if you choose to include one):While a cover letter isn’t essential, it’s a great opportunity to express your passion for architecture and why you want to join us. Keep it personal and engaging – let us know what excites you about this placement!
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We recommend applying as soon as possible since positions fill up quickly. Head over to our website and get your application in – we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Mott MacDonald
✨Know Your Portfolio Inside Out
Make sure you can talk confidently about your portfolio. Highlight specific projects that showcase your design skills and attention to detail, as these are key traits they're looking for. Be prepared to discuss your thought process and the challenges you faced during each project.
✨Research the Company Culture
Familiarise yourself with the company's values and culture. Since they emphasise equality, diversity, and inclusion, think about how your own experiences align with these principles. This will help you demonstrate that you're not just a good fit for the role, but also for the team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with questions that show your interest in the role and the company. Ask about the types of projects you'll be involved in or how the team collaborates. This shows initiative and a genuine desire to learn from their experienced professionals.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since excellent verbal communication is crucial, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. You might want to do mock interviews with friends or family to get comfortable discussing your experiences and ideas. Remember, being able to communicate effectively with clients and team members is key!
