We are seeking a talented Architectural Assistant (Part II ARB) to join our London team. This is a broad, hands-on position suited to a graduate architect who wants to work across the full project lifecycle — from design development and production information through to construction delivery and close-out — within a technically demanding, multi-disciplinary environment.
The role supports both design production and Employer’s Agent functions on JCT Design & Build contracts, providing direct exposure to the contractual, technical, and administrative disciplines that underpin high-quality UK construction delivery. ESA Engineering UK will actively support the successful candidate’s progression toward ARB Part 3 qualification.
Key Responsibilities
Design & Technical Production
- Develop architectural design documentation from scheme design (RIBA Stage 2) through to construction information (RIBA Stage 4), including drawings, specifications and schedules.
- Produce and maintain BIM drawing packages in Revit; maintain coordinated federated models with structural and MEP consultants.
- Prepare and manage planning applications, listed building consent, prior approval and Change of Use submissions as required.
- Draft and review Employer’s Requirements volumes, including spatial briefs, performance specifications, and material schedules.
- Maintain project documentation in accordance with ISO 19650 standards and ESA UK naming and revision conventions.
Employer’s Agent Support
- Assist in preparing Employer’s Agent instructions, Request for Information responses, and formal contract correspondence.
- Review and comment on Contractor’s Proposals, design development submissions, method statements, and material approval requests.
- Attend and minute design team coordination meetings, client review meetings, and site progress meetings.
Business Development & Practice
- Maintain an active log of professional experience toward ARB Part 3 qualification; engage with the practice mentorship programme.
- Engage with ESA Group’s international network, contributing knowledge and design resources across the group as needed.
Qualifications
- MArch or equivalent qualification at ARB/RIBA Part 2 level from a validated school of architecture (UK or internationally recognised equivalent).
- Minimum 1 year of post-Part 2 practice experience in a UK architectural or multi-disciplinary consultancy.
- Proficiency in Revit (mandatory) and AutoCAD; ability to produce fully coordinated, dimensionally accurate drawing sets.
- Working knowledge of UK planning legislation, Building Regulations (Approved Documents), and statutory consents processes.
- Clear and professional written and verbal communication in English.
- Right to work in the United Kingdom.
Person Specification
Essential
- MArch or equivalent qualification at ARB/RIBA Part 2 level from a validated school of architecture (UK or internationally recognised equivalent).
- Minimum 1 year of post-Part 2 practice experience in a UK architectural or multi-disciplinary consultancy.
- Proficiency in Revit (mandatory) and AutoCAD; ability to produce fully coordinated, dimensionally accurate drawing sets.
- Working knowledge of UK planning legislation, Building Regulations (Approved Documents), and statutory consents processes.
- Clear and professional written and verbal communication in English.
- Right to work in the United Kingdom.
Desirable
- Experience in luxury retail, high-end hospitality, or premium commercial fit-out; familiarity with brand environment delivery.
- Knowledge of JCT Design & Build contract administration and Employer’s Agent duties.
- Familiarity with Building Safety Act 2022, fire strategy documentation, and BS 9999 / BS 9991 requirements.
- Proficiency in SketchUp, Rhino, Grasshopper, or equivalent 3D modelling and visualisation tools.
- Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator) for presentations and design communication.
- Working knowledge of Italian (spoken and/or written) — advantageous given our Italian parent company and international project delivery.
- Experience with BIM coordination platforms (e.g. Autodesk Construction Cloud / BIM 360, Revizto).
WHAT WE OFFER
- Competitive salary of £32,000 – £40,000 per annum, commensurate with experience.
- Direct involvement in high-profile, technically challenging projects from day one.
- Structured mentorship and practice support toward ARB Part 3 Professional Practice Examination.
- Exposure to international project delivery within the ESA Group network across nine offices.
- Small-team environment with genuine responsibility, variety of work, and clear progression.
- 25 days annual leave plus UK bank holidays.
- Central London office (Mayfair).
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis and early submission is encouraged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. No agencies.
All personal information provided will be treated confidentially and used solely for the purpose of evaluating your application for this position.
Candidates are invited to read the privacy information pursuant to art. 13 of EU Reg. 679/2016 on data protection (GDPR), available in the privacy section of our website.
ESA Engineering is an equal opportunity employer, committed to fostering an inclusive work environment where all employees are encouraged to reach their full potential, and where individual differences are valued and respected.
We consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
