Job Description
About Us
Choosing to work at Stef & Philips is about more than just having a job. All members of our team share the same goal: to help improve the lives of vulnerable people around the UK, by delivering safe, suitable homes and vital services for the homeless, backed by investors who care. This people-centred ethos is reflected in our company culture; we prioritise wellbeing, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
Our Journey, so Far
Stef & Philips began life in 2006 as a traditional family-run lettings agent, servicing private tenants and landlords in North London. But the UK’s urgent need for good quality social housing had a profound impact on our Founder and CEO, Chris Philippou. In 2012 he acted on that need, and we nowoperate UK-wide with over 3800 accommodation units, 5500 tenants and counting.
By bringing together private investors, local authorities, charities, and housing associations in a spirit of trust and a shared commitment to improving tenants’ lives, we’ve created a versatile, end-to-end model that delivers fit-for-purpose accommodation and services - a setting where people can begin to thrive again.
Our full-service approach is unique. All work is carried out by dedicated in-house teams to ensure reliable, high-quality service.
The process begins with private or institutional investors looking for a positive social impact. Once we’ve helped them to source and acquire the right property, our construction arm remodels and refurbishes it to our exacting quality standards. We also sign a lease with the investor to handle lettings, management, and maintenance, while protecting their capital and yields.
Our roots as a family business remain at the core of who we are, as do the values that go with it, and our commitment to helping vulnerable people get the housing help they need.
The Role
A Junior Architect supports senior architects and design teams in the development and execution of architectural projects. This entry-level role involves assisting with design, drafting, technical specifications, and project coordination while learning about the various stages of project development from concept to completion. The ideal candidate is passionate about architecture, eager to learn, and able to collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams.
Main Duties & Responsibilities
* Design Support: Assist in creating architectural designs, including conceptualisation, schematic designs, and development of detailed design drawings.
* Drafting & Documentation: Prepare architectural drawings, including plans, elevations, sections, and details, using CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD). Ensure that all documents adhere to design specifications and standards.
* Project Coordination: Collaborate with project managers, engineers, and other team members to ensure that projects meet client needs, deadlines, and budgets.
* Surveying: the ability to conduct condition and measured surveys of properties and more significant residential buildings.
* Site Visits: Attend construction sites to gather data, inspect progress, and ensure design specifications and regulations compliance.
* Building Codes & Regulations: Ensure designs comply with local building codes, zoning laws, and environmental regulations.
* Client Interaction: Participate in client meetings and presentations, taking notes and providing design feedback as required.
* Material Research & Specification: Research and assist in selecting appropriate materials and finishes for various projects.
* Quality Control: Help ensure the accuracy and quality of all architectural drawings and documentation.
* Continuous Learning: Stay updated on industry trends, new technologies, and emerging design techniques.
* Office based with occasional site visits.
* This may involve standing, walking, or carrying materials during site visits.
* Occasional overtime depending on project deadlines.
Skills & Knowledge
* Bachelor’s degree in architecture or a related field from an accredited institution.
* Strong working knowledge of architectural design software AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, etc.).
* A keen eye for design with a strong foundation in architectural principles and aesthetics.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills to collaborate effectively with clients, teams, and contractors.
* Ability to produce high-quality, accurate work while managing multiple tasks simultaneously.
* Ability to assist in solving design and technical challenges creatively and practically.
* Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment and take direction from senior staff.
* Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
Ideal but not Essential
* Some internships or work experience in an architectural firm or construction-related field is a plus.
* Experience with Rhino
Benefits
* 23 days leave, plus bank holidays
* Additional holiday days for long service - up to 28 days
* Celebration of tenure
o 3 years £500
o 5 years £1000
o 10 years £5000
* Private health insurance with Vitality
* Birthday off
* One well-being day off per year
* Maternity/Paternity Pay
* Pension schemes increase - after 2 years.
* Mental health & wellbeing training through the charity Mind
* Professional Emergency First Aid at work training
* £500 referral scheme for staff who refer a new employee, paid upon passing probation.
* Company payday lunch
* Daily Fresh fruit
How to Apply:
Complete our online application process by uploading your details after clicking the apply button.