Assistant Design Manager

ACT is looking for an Assistant Design Manager to join our growing team. This is an entry-level role for newly qualified architects who want to move from practice into design management. You’ll work closely with our Design Managers from pre-construction through to project handover. Along the way you’ll learn how design is delivered and coordinated on site, for high-end residential projects built to an exceptional standard.

Our clients expect the highest quality, so we’re looking for someone with a keen eye for design detail and a real interest in how buildings come together. You’ll bring your architectural training, and we’ll give you hands-on experience on the contractor’s side, plus structured support and mentoring to grow your career in design management with a leading super-prime residential contractor.

This is an exciting time to join us, as we expand and develop our in-house design team and its capabilities

Responsibilities

Working alongside and learning from our Design Managers, you will:

• Help coordinate and manage design information from specialist consultants and subcontractors across multiple projects
• Review technical design submittals and shop drawings during RIBA Stages 4 and 5, checking they meet project requirements, planning approvals and quality standards
• Help produce, review and approve samples, mock-ups and quality benchmarks
• Support the design-related Request for Information (RFI) process through to completion
• Help develop and maintain the Information Release Schedule, flagging inconsistencies, design changes and missing information
• Prepare design reports and progress updates
• Support Design Team Meetings (DTMs) and workshops by recording and tracking actions through to completion
• Work with subcontractors and suppliers to resolve design issues
• Help maintain programme, budget control and design quality throughout each project
• Help check that the work complies with Planning and Listed Building Consents
• Visit sites regularly to see the design built, follow progress and help resolve coordination issues
• Attend project meetings with internal teams, clients and their consultant teams
• Follow company project reporting requirements for design management, both internally and externally

Requirements

• A recently qualified architect (ARB/RIBA Part 3), or a Part 2 graduate close to qualifying, keen to move into design management
• A degree in Architecture or Architectural Technology
• Around 1–3 years’ experience in practice, ideally covering RIBA Stages 3–5, shown through a portfolio and CV
• An interest in high-end residential projects (direct experience is a bonus but not essential)
• Some understanding of Planning and Listed Building Consent / heritage requirements
• Working knowledge of UK Building Regulations and Fire Regulations
• An awareness of M&E and structural coordination, and a willingness to build on it
• Experience with AutoCAD, ArchiCAD or Vectorworks is preferred but not essential
• A good understanding of construction detailing and design coordination
• Strong organisational, communication and problem-solving skills, and eagerness to learn

Benefits

• 24 Days Holidays (three to be taken during the Christmas shutdown period).
• Length of Service Leave - You will receive one day holiday on top of your entitlement for every year that you have worked, up to five additional days.
• Vitality Healthcare - Private healthcare including, physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, chiropody/podiatry, acupuncture, and homoeopathy.
• Wellhub Membership - Free access to gyms, wellness centres and health apps.
• Strong Culture - Regular events, team building activities and celebrations.
• NEST Pension Scheme - ACT contribution of 3% (based on full earnings)
• Professional Development - Opportunities for career advancement and internal promotions.
• Employee Assistance Programme - Confidential support including 24/7 advice, counselling services, and resources for mental health and wellbeing.
• Cycle to Work - Tax-efficient way to save on a new bike and accessories, with monthly payments taken directly from your salary.
• Mintago – All-in-one benefit platform, offering salary sacrifice for pension contributions alongside our other benefits.
• Dog friendly office.