Part 1 Architectural Assistant – ESA Architects - Property & Buildings in Manchester

We are looking for Graduates for our ESA Architecture teams with a flexible approach and an appetite to learn in a leading Engineering and Professional Advisory services consultancy. You will join our Architecture team in the UK on large-scale, high-profile projects, collaborating with architects and designers to deliver innovative, sustainable design solutions. This role is for Part 1 Architectural Assistant with a placement in London, Birmingham or Glasgow.

We are recruiting for Graduates in the following service area and locations: ESA Architects - Part 1 Architectural Assistant - London, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Manchester & Glasgow.

Day-to-Day Activities

• Assist architects in developing design concepts and detailed drawings.
• Support project teams with technical documentation using Revit and Adobe packages (additional training provided).
• Prepare presentations and visualisations to communicate design ideas effectively.
• Help ensure compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements throughout project stages.
• Coordinate with consultants and internal teams to maintain design quality and consistency.
• Contribute to client meetings and liaising professionally to support project delivery.
• Assist with bid documents and proposals, showcasing creative and technical skills.

Graduate Development Programme

Our two-year Graduate Development programme is designed to support personal and professional development through a blended learning experience. It includes core business and professional skills training, career development workshops and mentoring for professional registration, networking opportunities, and on-the-job experience. Clear pathways to Part 2 roles and beyond are supported by structured reviews. Learn from experienced architects and gain exposure to BIM workflows and cutting-edge visualisation tools in a supportive environment that encourages collaboration and growth.

What We Will Be Looking For You To Demonstrate

• You will have graduated with at least a 2:2 in a bachelor’s degree in Architecture.
• Candidates must complete the application form in full answering all questions; completion of this stage is mandatory. Successful candidates will then complete an online skill enabler assessment as part of the recruitment process.
• You should plan to start work in September 2026.
• You should have a working knowledge of Revit, Adobe packages and AutoCAD (training available).
• You should have an understanding of statutory and regulatory requirements and the ability to work collaboratively within a design team and take ownership of tasks after briefing.
• You should be proficient in scheduling and maintaining focus to ensure timely delivery of objectives and be able to communicate technical detail graphically and effectively.
• You should have an enthusiasm for creativity and a drive to solve problems and be prepared to inspire others with new ideas.

What’s in It For You?

• Work-life balance with a hybrid working policy; work from home two days a week and collaborate in offices across the UK.
• Inclusivity & Belonging: we welcome varied backgrounds and experiences and support a culture of inclusion and belonging.
• Health & Wellbeing: Thrive programme, Virtual GP service, workplace adjustments, Gymflex scheme, and menopause support.
• Flex your time: WSP My Hour to take one hour per day for personal activities with flexible time off in lieu.
• Development: training, mentoring, and opportunities for Chartership and growth within the company.
• Our commitment to diversity and equal opportunity; disability confident leadership and reasonable adjustments on request.

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms with thousands of colleagues dedicated to creating positive, long-lasting impacts in communities through innovation, integrity, and inclusion.