Buttress Architects Limited

Part 1 Architectural Assistant

  • Full-time
  • Manchester

The role

The Part 1 Architectural Assistant will support project teams across all RIBA work stages, contributing to the design and delivery of projects.


Proactively collaborating with other members of the Buttress team and with external design disciplines, you will work within well-defined functional objectives and apply knowledge of improvements in technology, legislation or improved efficiencies to support effective delivery.


In addition to the general duties and tasks, you are expected to promote and exemplify Buttress’ values and purpose.

Key responsibilities

Project Design & Technical Delivery

  • Assist the design team leader to prepare, manage and coordinate all activities as required to meet RIBA workstages 1 to 7 as identified in the project brief.
  • Assist other members of the project team with the delivery of projects.
  • Support the design and specification of building projects in accordance with current guidelines, standards and regulations.
  • Support the project lead in co-ordinating and leading the activities of multidisciplinary design teams and colleagues.
  • Support the project lead, helping to ensure that they are delivered within time and budget to the quality expectations


Project Management, Planning & Commercial Awareness

  • Support the management of projects through planning applications, building regulations and listed consent as applicable.
  • Contribute to discussions related specifically to Architectural and related issues.


Client Engagement & Professional Practice

  • Proactively engage with clients to provide a high standard of service within commercial constraints.
  • Demonstrate commitment to Buttress and our clients, which may from time to time require you to work beyond normal working hours.


How You’ll Work

  • Working collaboratively with colleagues across the studio
  • Supporting a values-led, employee-owned business


About you

We’re looking for someone who:

  • Has demonstrable knowledge of the application, principles, theory and practice of Architectural design and delivery.
  • Has experience with AutoCAD, Revit, Sketch-up, Photoshop, InDesign and Microsoft Office.
  • Has the ability to communicate clearly and confidently with colleagues, consultants and clients.

You don’t need to know everything from day one; curiosity and a willingness to get stuck in matter just as much as experience.


Why Join Us

  • Be part of an employee-owned practice with a strong sense of purpose
  • Work in a supportive, collaborative studio culture
  • A role with real variety and responsibility
  • Opportunity to develop skills across studio operations and administration

About us

Buttress Architects is a practice of 80+ individuals based across Manchester and Leeds. We are a vibrant community, united by a shared vision and a passion for creating extraordinary spaces.


We believe in more than just financial success; we embrace a 'triple bottom line' approach that values profit, people, and the planet as equal measures of our achievements. We strive to make a positive impact in all that we do.


People are the driving force behind our business. We recognise that their talent, creativity, and dedication are our greatest assets. That's why we are committed to their growth and development, investing in coaching, training, and endless opportunities to enrich both their professional and personal lives.


We foster a studio environment that encourages authenticity, celebrating diverse perspectives and personalities. We believe that by embracing our differences, we can unleash unlimited creativity and innovation, ultimately shaping better places for people to enjoy.

What we offer

We understand that loving where you work is vital. We work hard to create a company culture that is supportive, inclusive, and fun. We celebrate our differences and ensure everyone has a voice and is respected, valued, and heard. 

  • 37.5hrs per week
  • Workplace pension with employer contributions and an optional salary sacrifice scheme
  • 30 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

Salary: £26,250 per annum