Architect/Part II Architectural Assistant

We have an exciting opportunity for a new member to join our small, established, award winning architectural practice based in the Peak District, Derbyshire, just outside Sheffield. We are open to applications from Part II Architectural Assistants and recently qualified Architects with a keen interest in Building Conservation.

The position is full-time. Some degree of flexibility in working hours may be possible to suit personal circumstances.

The practice embraces a wide spectrum of project types, from conservation and ecclesiastical to commercial and residential across Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Yorkshire but usually with a conservation focus. We are looking for an enthusiastic person who shares that passion for building conservation and developing the built historic environment for a sustainable future and wishes to further develop their knowledge in this field. Experience of past working on conservation projects is welcomed but not essential. 

The role offers the oportunity for the successful candidate to develop in this field under the supervision of the Lead Architect, with the option of support towards seeking heritage accrediation in the future.

Key role responsibilities:

• Working in a small practice means that the successful candidate will have the opportunity to work closely with the Lead Architect and the rest of the team, as well as working independently on on a wide range of projects, having an active role in design and development of schemes from inception through to completion.
• You will have the oportunity to work on all RIBA workstages.
• You will develop and edit drawings, models, images and other documents, relating to the project, at all workstages, to meet the outcomes of that stage.
• Prepare and present design proposals using computer-aided design (CAD) and other design software, as well as traditional drawing methods.
• You will participate in client meetings and on-site activities, surveys, inspections, etc. 
• Meet with other professionals and the wider design team.
• Contribute to planning applications and other regulatory application procedures.
• Liaise with appropriate authorities (e.g. planning enquiries and building inspectors) when producing documentation for statutory approval.
• Help lead the detailed design process and coordinate design information (with the Lead Architect).
• Produce, analyse and advise on detailed specifications for suitable materials or processes to be used.

Working as a Part II Architectural Assistant/Architect you must:

• Hold at least a recognised RIBA Part II degree qualification (or equivalent) and (where a qualified Architect) be registered with the Architects Registration Board.
• Have a keen interest in building conservation and be able to demonstrate how you have developed your knowledge and skills in this specialist area of architecture and pursued this interest through academic studies and/or professional experience and have a desire to further develop in this field.
• Have a good understanding of sustainability and respect for the environment and integration of this into designs.
• Be able to demonstrate an enthusiasm for design and a keen attention to detail and a particular strength in the early conceptual design stages and taking those forward to detail design stages and preparing drawings/documents to a high standard.
• Having a strong working knowledge and be an efficient user of AutoCAD is essential and competency in SketchUp and Photoshop are favourable.
• Be able to show the initiative to work both independently and collaboratively as part of a small team.
• Demonstrate experience of successfully working on multiple projects simultaneously and efficiently and demonstrate good time management, working to deadlines/targets and within agreed project fee structures and prioritisation and coordination between projects.
• Hold excellent verbal and written communication skills and be able to confidently convey ideas and information to a variety of audiences (e.g. Client, Contractor, etc.) - We can offer training in this through your employment.
• Be able to achieve a good life:work balance to ensure physical and mental well-being, while maintaining a strong working ethos.
• Demonstrate at least a basic understanding of the Planning process, heritage approvals (e.g. Listed Building Consent), Building Regulations and other industry regulations. This would be developed further through your employment.
• Demonstrating strong artistic skills would be favourable, with strength in hand-sketching/art/drawings.

Candidates will be asked to demonstrate the above if invited to interview, but should also seek to offer an overview through their portfolio, CV and covering letter.

Location and contract details:

• Full time post.
• Full, paid holiday allowance.
• Workplace pension provided.
• Flexible work arrangements. 
• The firm is based in Hathersage, Hope Valley, Derbyshire although the role may initially involve remote working due to Covid-19 safe working restrictions. Being a car driver is therefore an advantage but not essential. 

Salary: TBA (depending on experience)
Start Date: December 2021 (subject to negotiation)

Due to Covid-19 restrictions the role may involve some part-time remote working, with a view to coming back together as restrictions allow in the future.

If you wish to be part of a design-led practice with conservation at its heart and a close-working team, please forward your CV and samples of your work with covering letter, setting out (in brief) examples/evidence of meeting the above criteria to: info@tomcrooksarchitecture.co.uk, marked for the attention of Tom Crooks.

Selected applicants will be invited for an interview to further explore the above requirements/criteria.