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Join Our Team

Part II Architectural Assistant/ Architectural Technologist

​We have an exciting opportunity for a new member to join our small, established, award winning conservation-based architectural practice based in the Peak District, Derbyshire, just outside Sheffield (within 15 minute commute). We are open to applications from Part II Architectural Assistants and Architectural Technologists.

The position is full-time (part-time considered). 

The practice embraces a wide spectrum of project types, but with a key focus on historic building conservation and ecclesiastical work across Derbyshire, Staffordshire and Yorkshire, working on alterations, repairs and conversions to historic buildings, churches, mill and barn conversions/re-developments, community projects as well as new-build and sustainability projects (take a look at some of our projects to date).

 

We are looking for an enthusiastic new member of the team, who shares our passion for conservation and design (new build and adaptation) within the built historic environment and/or sensitive settings, or someone who has an interest in developing their knowledge in this field. Experience of past working on conservation projects is welcomed but not essential, but candidates must be able to demonstrate as part of their application, how they have developed a personal interest in this field, through building visits, journals, self-led research, or CPD and have a basic awareness of key conservation texts/guidance, bodies and statutory processes.

The role offers the opportunity for the successful candidate to develop in the field of conservation if they wish, under the supervision of the Lead Architect, with the option of seeking further heritage accreditation in the future. Projects are small to medium sized, allowing candidates to work on all workstages and carry projects through from inception to completion.

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 a wide range of projects, having an active role in design and development of schemes from inception through to completion. Our small team means that everyone has a voice and is expected to contribute to the design process.

  • Develop and edit drawings, models, images and other documents, relating to projects, at all RIBA 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 hand-drawing methods.

  • Participate in client meetings and on-site activities, surveys, inspections, etc.

  • Liaise 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 Lead Architect support as required).

  • Produce, analyse and advise on detailed specifications for suitable materials or processes to be used.


To qualify for the role, you must:

  • Hold at least a recognised RIBA Part II degree qualification (or equivalent).

  • Be well presented and convey a strong professional attitude and approach to their work.

  • Be based in the UK at the time of applying, with the right to work in the UK and a minimum of 12 months experience in UK architectural professional practice.

  • Be able to speak fluent (conversational) English - min. C2 English (Proficient).

  • Have a keen interest in building conservation and designing for sensitive environments (even if it is only academic/personal development at this stage) and a desire to further develop in this field. You must 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 continue to do so.

  • Candidates must be able to demonstrate how, in the role, they would pursue the gaining of knowledge and understanding of architecture and building conservation, through personal and professional activities and be able to demonstrate how they have done so to date.

  • Have a secure understanding of sustainability and respect for the environment and integration of this into designs.

  • Be able to demonstrate a basic understanding of construction detailing.

  • 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 accurate drawings/documents to a high standard.

  • Have a strong working knowledge and be a fast and proficient user of AutoCAD. Proficiency in SketchUp and PhotoShop are highly favourable. Competency is a minimum.

  • 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/tasks simultaneously and efficiently and demonstrate good time management, working to deadlines/targets and with an accute awareness of working 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 further training in this through your employment if required.

  • Be able to achieve a good life:work balance to ensure physical and mental well-being, while maintaining a strong working ethos and the flexibility to complete a task on time and within the project fees.

  • Demonstrate a clear understanding of the planning process (including local and national planning policy), heritage approvals (e.g., Listed Building Consent and ecclesiastical equivalents), the Building Regulations and other industry regulations. This would be developed further through your employment.

Candidates will be asked to demonstrate all of the above if invited to interview. It is suggested that they endeavour to do so in their covering letter and accompanying application.

Location and contract details:

Full-time post (Part-time considered).

Full, paid holiday allowance.

Workplace pension provided.

Flexible work arrangements.

The firm is based in Hathersage, Hope Valley, Derbyshire, 15 minute commute from Sheffield, so an ideal candidate would live within 10 miles or be prepared to relocate. Being a car driver is an advantage but not essential.

 

Salary dependent on experience and ability
Start Date: Subject to negotiation.

Initial contract: 3 month probation (subject to extension) with a view to the post being made permanent.

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, samples of your work with covering letter, setting out (in brief) examples/evidence of meeting all of the above criteria to: info@tomcrooksarchitecture.co.uk, marked for the attention of Tom Crooks.

Selected applicants, who can demonstrate meeting all of the above criteria, will be invited for an interview to further explore the above requirements/criteria.

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