Architectural Assistant (Part 1) - northern region
For over 65 years, Donald Insall Associates has been working with the past to unlock opportunities within the historic environment. We set the standard for what heritage can be.
With sustained success and a growing portfolio of prestigious conservation and heritage projects, our Northern region architecture practice continues to expand. We are strengthening our teams across our studios in Chester, Conwy, Manchester and York at several levels, offering opportunities for architects at different stages of their careers to contribute to thoughtful, design-led work within historic environments.
We are keen to hear from talented, motivated graduates who share our passion for conservation, heritage and the sensitive adaptation of significant buildings.
The Architectural Assistant role supports architectural teams under direct supervision. You'll focus on diligently learning core architectural skills (primarily CAD/Revit), practice procedures (including QA/EM systems), and our conservation philosophy, within a supportive, high-performing team environment.
We offer competitive industry-benchmarked salaries, a profit-share bonus, private healthcare, pension, holiday starting at 25 days (plus bank holidays) which increases with tenure, paid professional fees, relevant accreditations, payment of a further journal subscription, numerous annual training days, an individual CPD allowance, an internal CPD programme, and other benefits.
What you will do:
Assist the accurate production of 2D/3D drawings (designs, construction details, technical drawings) using practice software (AutoCAD, Revit)
Assist with creating 3D visualizations and renders as required
Support the preparation of clear and concise reports and presentations using MS Office and Adobe Creative Suite
Assist with conducting site surveys and accurately gathering site information under supervision.
Help maintain organised project documentation and filing systems according to practice QA/EM procedures
Perform basic material and product research accurately as directed
Proactively seek opportunities to develop proficiency in practice software and drawing techniques.
Demonstrate a growing understanding of how technical information informs design and drawings
Show initiative in managing assigned tasks effectively to meet deadlines
What we think you need:
Undergraduate degree (BA / BSc) in Architecture, meeting RIBA / ARB Part 1 requirements
A developing proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit
Demonstrable interest and developing experience in conservation, historic buildings, new design in historic contexts, and understanding the climate emergency context
Problem-solving skills: able to think ahead, work effectively under guidance, and devise appropriate solutions.
Accountability, with a high focus on quality and delivery
A collaborative approach, with client awareness
Equal Opportunities:
Donald Insall Associates is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, or pregnancy and maternity.
- Department
- Architecture - North
- Locations
- Chester, Conwy, Manchester, York
About Donald Insall Associates
DIA brings together unrivalled expertise and a pioneering spirit to unlock opportunities in the historic environment. Balancing tradition and transformation, we set the standard for what heritage can be—relevant, responsible and enduring.