Architect - Senior or Principal
IT · Full-time
Manchester, UK
At Jacobs, we're challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world's most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
As part of Jacobs' Cities & Places team, you will play a key role in shaping thriving and sustainable places at every scale, from regions and cities to neighbourhoods, individual buildings and critical infrastructure. Through an integrated and multidisciplinary approach, the team brings together architects, engineers, surveyors, urban designers, project managers and transport planners to deliver innovative, coordinated and value-driven solutions for clients across the UK and internationally.
This is an exciting time to join the business as UK ARB registered Architect as we continue to grow our design portfolio and expand our long-term frameworks. We are building a truly interdisciplinary planning, design and delivery practice that is uniquely Jacobs, bringing together some of the industry's leading design thinkers, technical experts, visionaries and problem-solvers to shape the future of the built environment.
Based within our Architectural Design team in Manchester on a hybrid working basis, you will have the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects across sectors including transport infrastructure, defence, education, research, technology, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, public sector and mixed-use developments. Projects span the entire building lifecycle, from strategic briefing and feasibility studies through concept and technical design, right through to construction and project delivery.
The Architectural role offers the opportunity to take ownership of design delivery within a collaborative multidisciplinary environment. A strong design focus, effective communication skills and the ability to build positive working relationships will be key to leading projects successfully, making informed design decisions and delivering high-quality outcomes for clients.
As a member of the team, you will be responsible for delivering building and infrastructure projects from concept through to construction. You will lead the development of architectural designs, undertake feasibility studies, prepare drawings, specifications and technical reports, and ensure designs comply with planning requirements, Building Regulations, accessibility standards, fire safety requirements and other relevant legislation.
Working closely with civil, structural, mechanical, electrical and environmental engineering teams, you will help develop coordinated design solutions and resolve technical challenges throughout the project lifecycle. You will regularly engage with clients, contractors, planners, local authorities and other key stakeholders, understanding project requirements, presenting design proposals, securing approvals and helping drive projects forward.
Alongside design delivery, you will contribute to project planning, programme management, resource forecasting, risk management and budget control, taking ownership of architectural deliverables and ensuring work is delivered to agreed quality, cost and programme objectives. You will also have the opportunity to contribute to bids, fee proposals and wider business development activities, helping support the continued growth of the business.
During construction, you will provide technical support, review contractor submissions, respond to design queries, undertake site inspections and help resolve challenges on site, ensuring projects are delivered in line with the approved design intent and client expectations.
The role also offers the opportunity to support and mentor junior team members, champion design quality, promote best practice and contribute to the successful delivery of high-profile and complex projects across Jacobs' broad portfolio of infrastructure and building sectors.
***Please note the roles are hybrid 2 days in the office***
- To be a Qualified Architect in the UK with professional ARB registration
- Professional experience in delivering multi-disciplinary design, infrastructure and construction projects across varied sectors
- Ability to lead projects commensurate with your level of experience
- Knowledge of BIM based delivery
- Good IT skills, including BIM software preferably Autodesk Revit, in addition to Autodesk AutoCAD, Adobe and Microsoft Suite Products
- Good technical knowledge, familiarity with relevant legislation and a thorough understanding of current Building Regulations and Planning Process
- Experience of working collaboratively with design team and clients, managing positive mutually beneficial relationships
- Strong problem solving ability, high attention to detail and an ability to come up with practical solutions
Our Benefits :
- Competitive salary and performance-based progression opportunities.
- Up to 10% employer pension contribution.
- 24 days annual leave, with the option to purchase up to 10 additional days.
- Private medical insurance.
- Income protection insurance.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Professional membership support.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
- Extensive learning and development opportunities.
- Global giving and volunteering programmes.
If this sounds like what you are looking for - apply below!
We value collaboration and believe that in-person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.
Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.
| City | State | Country |
|---|---|---|
| London | Greater London | United Kingdom |
| Birmingham | West Midlands | United Kingdom |


