We are committed to developing the next generation of Architects.

We are seeking a number of Part I Architectural Assistants to join our 100+ Manchester City Centre architectural practice. The ideal candidates will demonstrate a flair for design with good communication skills including team working. Knowledge of Revit and Autocad, with skills in Photoshop, Indesign and hand sketching is beneficial, but not essential as we offer a full suite of training.

You will be assigned to one of our teams, working on projects in one or more of our five key sectors, and reporting to a senior team member for career development and mentoring. The exact placement year start date will be agreed with the successful candidates, but is likely to run from September 24.

Please click “Apply Now” and submit a copy of your CV & portfolio as a zip file.

AEW Plus

AEW Plus is the added value we offer to our people, clients and communities. It includes the support and initiatives we offer as a “People first” business. Supporting our team’s physical, mental and financial wellbeing. Some of the benefits we offer include:

• Dedicated Social Value and Wellbeing Committee and EDI Committee
• Flexitime and hybrid working
• Salaries benchmarked against industry standards.
• Bi-annual performance linked bonus system and monthly recognition awards
• Death in service and critical illness insurance
• Mental Health first aiders and Employee Assistance Plan
• 31 days holiday (including Bank Holidays)
• Interest free travel season ticket loans and cycle to work scheme
• Regular social events, charity engagement activities and paid volunteering days

It also includes our focus on helping our team achieve their potential. Supporting their growth and development, both individually and as a collective. Initiatives include:

• Full Revit training for all Part 1 students, plus the use of our virtual reality suite
• “Quarterly conversations” with your line manager / mentor to continually review your progress
• A comprehensive training and CPD programme utilising our internal expertise and industry partners.
• Dedicated training platform “Pinnacle” hosting a huge array of online training material
• Use of “Coaching Culture” platform containing a series of e-learning modules around self-development
• Dedicated Part I and Part II pledges, and in-house Part III examiner

Furthermore, it includes sharing our knowledge and expertise. Building collaborative relationships with our clients and communities through a range of outreach activities.

For more information, see our AEW Plus page.

Part 1 Pledge

As part of our commitment to the development of our people, we have a long standing “Part 1 Pledge”, which is our dedicated promise to the mentoring and development of the next generation of Architects. AEW prides itself on high levels of staff retention, with nearly half the Architects in our management team having undertaken their Part I year out with us. We want to continue this trend and help to develop the Architects of the future. As part of the pledge:

• You will be assigned a one-to-one mentor, who may be a qualified Architect or Part II student, to work with you throughout the year to offer guidance and support, including PEDR sheet review and sign off.
• We will pay for your PEDR fees, on the proviso that you complete these on time

We believe that the Part I year out should be more than just a job. It is an important part of your overall Architectural education. Therefore, as part of our commitment to your development, we will aim to provide you with:

• An opportunity to experience multiple RIBA Plan of Work Stages, including
• Concept design and feasibility work
• Planning application drawings and documents
• Preparation of tender and construction information
• Exposure to the commercial reality of practice, including
• First hand contact with clients and consultants
• A minimum of 4no. client or design team meetings
• A minimum of 2no. construction site visits
• Minimum quarterly study sessions to cover key topics in preparation for your Part II and Part III, such as
• The PEDR process and education routes (eg traditional vs. apprenticeships / part-time)
• Fee proposals and appointment documents
• The planning process, CDM and Building Regulations
• Procurement, construction and contract administration
• Marketing, Business Development and Practice Management

In return, all that we ask from you is to engage, contribute, and immerse yourself in all that AEW has to offer.