Part 2 architectural assistant

There is an opportunity for a Part 2 architectural assistant at shedkm in London. The culture at shedkm is a forward-looking EO practice and proud member of the B Corp movement. The practice has four studios, in Liverpool, London, Manchester and Hastings, with 40+ permanent staff, plus specialist contractors, and a strong mentoring culture.

About us: shedkm’s work is rooted in regeneration. Our distinctive approach results in bold, engaging schemes which are economically and socially transformative. We take a socially responsive, people-first approach to placemaking, creating vibrant neighbourhoods and long-term social sustainability. We deliver innovation through strategic commercial thinking, a strong design rationale and our enterprising approach challenges design assumptions to add value for clients and end users.

The role offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced Part II with high energy, creativity and competency to work directly with our London director on both established projects and early-stage design development. The London director’s projects require a mix of London and Hastings studio presence and regional meetings, so much of your communication with them will happen via Teams meetings from our London studio. You will have ample in-person support and camaraderie from our London team of 12 people, plus the wider shedkm teams in our Liverpool and Manchester studios. This is a fantastic mentoring and development opportunity for someone enthusiastic and open to learning at the early stage of their career.

Main responsibilities include:

• Assist in preparing drawings, design proposals, schedules and specifications.
• Undertake administrative work to assist in the production of architectural information.
• Support work related to the submission of planning applications.
• Prepare clear and accurate contract documentation.
• Promote the shedkm ethos across the company and outside of the company.
• Liaise with clients, contractors and other specialists.
• Attend project meetings as required.
• Show commitment to ongoing learning, i.e. CPD sessions in conjunction with other Part II assistants, organise CPD lectures.
• Develop leadership skills within your project team and across the office.
• Contribute to day-to-day office tasks, i.e. answering the phone, filing, maintaining office/kitchen space tidiness.
• Provide guidance to less experienced members of the team.
• Complete all tasks as directed, working competently and professionally to meet deadlines.
• Work with colleagues to ensure that shedkm standards are consistent throughout.
• Keep up to date with legislative changes in relation to building and design, and developments in design and construction.

This list is not exhaustive and may be reviewed periodically.

Skills and experience required:

• Completed RIBA Part 1 and 2, and be working towards RIBA Part 3.
• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in an architectural related subject.
• Master's degree or equivalent in architecture.
• Good knowledge of all current and relevant legislation related to construction and health and safety.
• Experience in a similar role.
• A strong visual awareness and an eye for detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, together with presentation skills.
• The ability to manage your time efficiently.
• Good drawing skills, with the ability to work in 3D.
• Familiarity with Mac software.
• Experience of using design-related software – SketchUp, Adobe, Photoshop, Vectorworks, Revit, BIM.

Package includes:

• Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications, aligned with the RIBA salary report.
• Annual leave of 20 days, plus 5 working days for practice-wide Christmas closure, plus public holidays.
• Your birthday off, plus 1 volunteering day, plus option of 1 day for practising religious festivals not covered by UK public holidays e.g. Diwali, Eid, Yom Kippur.
• EOT profit-related bonus, following a qualifying period.
• ARB fees paid.
• RIBA pension scheme.
• Healthcare cash plan through Westfield Health and an extensive Employee Assistance Programme.
• Annual practice study trip to a city of architectural merit (normally abroad).
• Cycle to work scheme.

Interview date w/c 27 July, start date 17 August (earlier start date available, depending on notice period).

shedkm is an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from diverse ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQ+ and people living with disabilities and do not discriminate on the basis of any of these factors, nor age, religion, or marital status.