At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead design on large projects, shaping ideas from concept to schematic design.
- Company: Join SOM London, a leader in innovative architectural design.
- Benefits: Enjoy medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus flexible work options.
- Other info: Be part of a creative culture that values mentorship and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by guiding complex design decisions and mentoring future designers.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in architectural design with strong leadership and storytelling skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Associate Designer – SOM London
We are seeking a hands‑on Associate Designer with 8+ years' experience to lead design on large, complex projects from first principles through schematic design.
This senior studio role focuses on staying close to the work and leading through the design itself, not design management.
Responsibilities
- Lead design direction on large, complex projects from first principles through schematic design
- Recognise, strengthen and communicate emerging design ideas
- Set the cadence across teams with clarity, momentum and consistency
- Lead teams and workstreams while staying hands‑on in the design
- Build design narratives connecting concept, context, programme, structure, material and experience
- Shape presentations with a strong editorial eye and persuasive visual storytelling
- Translate design ambition into coherent spatial, structural, environmental and material strategies
- Guide senior clients and collaborators through complex design decisions
- Lead interdisciplinary reviews and maintain design quality
- Work closely with clients, consultants and SOM's global studios
- Mentor designers and contribute to studio culture
- Contribute to competitions, pitches and new business
- Help shape the wider creative direction of SOM London
Qualifications
- At least 8 years leading architectural design
- A clear record of developing concepts for large, complex projects through schematic design
- Experience leading teams, projects or significant design workstreams
- Strong judgement across form, programme, structure, material, environmental performance and context
- Ability to turn complex ideas into clear narratives and presentations
- Experience advising senior clients and guiding interdisciplinary teams
- A record of mentoring designers and contributing positively to studio culture
- Professional registration mandatory
- Portfolio Guidance
Portfolios must be submitted.
The portfolio should clearly identify your individual contributions and show design leadership through a project's development from concept to schematic design.
Final renders or completed project photography alone will not be sufficient.
Submit a PDF attachment of 10–20 pages (max 5MB).
Benefits
- Medical, dental, vision, disability, life and accident insurance
- Retirement support
- Free access to employee assistance programs for employees and family members
- Workplace flexibility
- Paid holidays
- Family leave and paid time off
- Reimbursement of professional license, certification and exam costs
- In‑house career development and mentorship programs
- Equal Opportunity
We are proud to be an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Design Architect employer: Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Llp (Som)
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP (SOM) is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic work culture where creativity and collaboration thrive. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company offers comprehensive benefits including health insurance and retirement support, alongside ample opportunities for professional development. Located in a vibrant city, SOM provides a unique environment for communications professionals to craft impactful narratives while being part of a globally respected firm.
Contact Details:
Skidmore, Owings & Merrill Llp (Som) Recruitment Team
