At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to design bespoke residential projects from concept to completion.
- Company: Simon Mack Architecture, a creative practice focused on high-end residential design.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and the chance to shape stunning homes.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a dynamic studio setting.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment where your design skills can shine.
- Qualifications: Part 2 Architectural Assistant or recently qualified Architect with a passion for residential design.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Simon Mack Architecture is a design led practice dedicated to the art of bespoke residential design. From contemporary new builds to the careful restoration of listed heritage assets, we pride ourselves on a holistic approach where interior flow is just as important as external appearance. We are looking for a proactive Part 2 Architectural Assistant or recently qualified Architect to become a core member of our South Oxfordshire team. This isn’t a "back-room" role; you will be hands‑on from day one, seeing projects evolve from initial sketches to finished homes.
The Role: You will support the delivery of high‑end residential schemes, taking ownership of defined work packages and moving projects through the RIBA stages. We provide a supportive environment with clear mentorship, but we value the independence of designers who can manage their own workflows.
Day‑to‑Day Responsibilities:
- Technical Delivery: Developing planning and technical packages using ArchiCAD.
- Project Coordination: Liaising with consultants, clients, and contractors to ensure design integrity.
- Design Support: Assisting on extensions, retrofits, and new‑build homes.
- Collaboration: Contributing to design team meetings and representing the studio on‑site.
About You: We are looking for a Part 2 graduate or a recently qualified Architect who is ready to immerse themselves in the UK residential sector. You should be someone who feels at home navigating the complexities of planning and technical documentation, possessing the design fluency to translate a concept into a buildable reality. While we provide a supportive studio environment, you should be comfortable managing your own deadlines and taking ownership of your workload. Communication is central to what we do; therefore, we value someone who is as confident discussing details with a colleague as they are presenting an update directly to a client. A working knowledge of ArchiCAD will certainly help you hit the ground running, but more importantly, we are looking for a designer with a genuine passion for the specific challenges and rewards of bespoke residential architecture.
Why Simon Mack Architecture? We offer a genuine studio and site experience. You’ll be involved in the full lifecycle of a project, gaining responsibility as you grow. We focus on quality over quantity, ensuring every project is a refined piece of architecture.
How to Apply: If you are passionate about residential design and ready to take the next step in a design‑led practice, please click 'Apply Now' and include: Your CV, a concise portfolio (PDF format) showcasing your technical and design ability, and a brief summary of your specific role on a recent residential project.
Experienced Part II or Recently Qualified Architect employer: RIBA Journal
At Simon Mack Architecture, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a collaborative and creative work culture in the heart of South Oxfordshire. Our commitment to mentorship and professional growth ensures that every team member has the opportunity to take ownership of their projects while contributing to high-end residential designs. With a focus on quality and a hands-on approach, you will be involved in every stage of the design process, making this a truly rewarding environment for passionate architects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Experienced Part II or Recently Qualified Architect
✨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 RIBA Journal 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 Experienced Part II or Recently Qualified Architect
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 RIBA Journal!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to RIBA Journal. 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 RIBA Journal
✨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 RIBA Journal.
