Project Architect

Architecture co; Bournemouth; On-site; GBP 80,000 - GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading architectural firm in Bournemouth is seeking a talented project architect. The ideal candidate will be ARB-registered with a strong design sensibility and at least 5 years of experience in a UK architectural practice, particularly in education projects. You will lead and coordinate projects through all RIBA stages, presenting confidently to clients and ensuring sustainable design principles are upheld. The firm offers a competitive salary and a supportive work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Opportunities for professional development

Collaborative and supportive work environment

Contribute to meaningful projects

Qualifications

• Must be an ARB-registered Architect with Part 3 qualification.
• At least 5 years’ experience in a UK architectural practice.
• Experience in education sector projects is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to concept design, technical delivery, and project coordination.
• Lead projects autonomously while ensuring design ethos is maintained.
• Present confidently to clients, consultants, and contractors.

Skills

ARB-registered Architect with Part 3 qualification (UK)

Minimum 5 years’ experience

Proven experience in education sector projects

Strong design sensibility and understanding of environmental and low-energy design

Excellent technical knowledge of UK Building Regulations

Skilled in design team coordination

Proficient in Vectorworks

Strong verbal, written, and visual communication skills

Tools

Vectorworks

Job description

Footprint Architects is an award-winning, RIBA Chartered practice recognised for creating thoughtful, contextually responsive architecture that enhances the wellbeing of people and communities. Our portfolio spans low-carbon, Passivhaus, and community-focused projects across the South, including education, residential, commercial, leisure and heritage sectors.

We are seeking a talented and experienced project architect to join our friendly and collaborative team in Bournemouth.

The Role

We’re looking for an architect who is both technically capable and design-driven, with excellent communication skills and a passion for creating buildings that make a positive environmental and social impact.

The successful candidate will work across all RIBA stages, contributing to concept design, technical delivery, and project coordination. The role offers the opportunity to lead projects with autonomy, supported by an Associate or Director. You will take responsibility for the day-to-day design development, management, and coordination of your projects, ensuring that Footprint’s design ethos—centred on sustainability and people—is embedded at every stage.

You will confidently present to clients, consultants, and contractors, and may manage and mentor architectural assistants as part of your project team.

While we welcome experience across sectors, we are particularly keen to hear from candidates with a strong background in education projects.

Experience & Skills

• ARB-registered Architect with Part 3 qualification (UK)
• Minimum 5 years’ experience working within a UK architectural practice
• Proven experience in education sector projects
• Strong design sensibility and understanding of environmental and low-energy design
• Excellent technical knowledge and working understanding of UK Building Regulations and all RIBA work stages
• Skilled in design team coordination and confident liaising with contractors and clients
• Proficient in Vectorworks (preferred)
• Strong verbal, written, and visual communication skills

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment.
• The chance to contribute to meaningful projects that make a positive impact on the environment and communities.