Buttress is looking for Part 2 Architectural Assistants to join various teams across all sectors. You will work under one of our experienced Associates, supporting the design and delivery of a range of projects.
Buttress works across a variety of sectors, from residential and commercial new build, through to heritage and conservation projects. Your role will be to support these projects at all stages, from initial feasibility through to post-completion. You will be exposed to projects on site and have the opportunity to visit projects across England and Wales.
We expect to be able to assist you in gaining the experience needed for your Part 3 and will support you in qualifying as an Architect.
Person specification
- Demonstrable experience
- Excellent presentation skills
- Emerging knowledge of legislation associated with UK construction projects
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- A collaborative and positive attitude
Competencies
- Proficient in CAD, BIM and other relevant design software, preferably Autodesk Revit and Adobe Suite.
- Able to manage workload effectively.
- A strong understanding of sustainable design practices.
- An understanding of the RIBA work stages and design development through those stages.
- An understanding of design standards and processes, with an ability to seek out support when needed.
- Able to work effectively within a team.
- Excellent customer service.
- Demonstrable problem-solving ability and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
- Ability to communicate clearly through a range of written, diagrammatic and verbal techniques.
- Basic project management ability.
- Basic understanding of commercial aspects of architectural project delivery.
- Good self-awareness and ability to develop positive relationships with colleagues and stakeholders.
- Ability to understand strategic practice objectives and align individual tasks to those objectives.
- Understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion and Buttress' EDI objectives.
What we offer
- This is a permanent, full-time role based on 37.5 hours per week
- The salary will be in a range of £30,000 to £33,000 per annum, subject to experience
- Flexible working is available, with 60% of time from our studios in Manchester and Leeds
- Workplace pension with employer contributions and an optional salary sacrifice scheme
- 28 days holiday (including bank holidays) with full closure over the Christmas period
- Employee Assistance Programme, currently through Vitality
- Annual staff trip with travel and accommodation paid by the business
- Free annual flu vaccinations
- Enhanced maternity, paternity and shared parental leave
- Enhanced sick pay scheme
- Wellbeing initiatives and mental health first aiders
- Cycle to work scheme
- Inclusive social calendar
- Part 3 support package, including training agreement to pay for course fees, and 13 days paid leave for studying, exam days, and interview.
The hiring process
Please send your CV, portfolio and cover letter to opportunities@buttress.net using reference BUTP22025 in the subject line.
The short-listed candidates will then be assessed through the following stages:
- Stage 1: Shortlisting - Shortlisting will be based on assessment panel review of CV and Covering Letter.
- Stage 2: Screening Calls – Someone from the hiring panel will schedule a phone call with successful applicants to assess whether they are invited to interview.
- Stage 3: Interview - the assessment panel will interview the shortlisted candidates.
The assessment panel will consist of male and female panel members.
What our staff say...
"My experience at Buttress as a Part 2 Architectural Assistant has been inspiring and empowering. From the very start, I’ve felt like a valued member of the team, with real opportunities to contribute to meaningful work and take on responsibilities that have helped me grow both professionally and personally.
I've been involved in a variety of residential and community-based projects, which has given me a deep appreciation for the social impact of architecture. The opportunity to engage with projects at different stages—from early design development through to detailed drawing packages—has given me practical, hands-on experience that goes far beyond what I expected at this stage in my career.
One of the things I really value about working at Buttress is the flexibility and trust that’s placed in you. There’s a genuine culture of autonomy and mutual respect, where you're encouraged to manage your time in a way that works best for you. This, combined with a strong emphasis on work-life balance, creates a really healthy and motivating environment.
Beyond day-to-day project work, Buttress actively supports ongoing learning. Whether it's through CPD sessions, design reviews, or getting involved in internal and external competitions, there's a strong focus on personal and professional development.
Being surrounded by such knowledgeable, supportive colleagues makes Buttress an exceptional place to work. It’s a practice that invests in its people and encourages you to take ownership of your path. For anyone looking to develop as a Part 2 within a collaborative and forward-thinking studio, I couldn’t recommend it more."
Will Dingwall (Part II Architectural Assistant)
Closing date: 30th May 2025
Your application will be passed to the hiring panel for initial review, screening calls and short-listing. Please note, we cannot respond to all applicants and if you have not heard from us before 20th June 2025 your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.