Architectural Technician/Design Manager London, UK * Full-Time, Permanent BTR / Residential Development * Client-Side * RIBA Stages 3-5 The Opportunity Our client is a London-based real estate developer and investor with an active pipeline of residential-led schemes, including Build-to-Rent, office-to-hotel conversions, and emerging pipeline projects. They are seeking an experienced Technician / Architectural Technologist to take on a central technical delivery role within their growing in-house development team.This is a hands-on, client-side position working directly with the Development Director. You will act as the key interface between the external design team, consultants, and construction delivery - ensuring design information is coordinated, buildable, compliant, and aligned with programme and commercial requirements. At a Glance Client-side role reporting directly to the Development DirectorLead technical coordination across BTR and mixed-use residential schemesRIBA Stages 3-5 through to construction, handover, and close-outInvolvement in early-stage feasibility, massing studies, and development appraisalOffice-based, 5 days per week, with regular site attendanceCompetitive salary based on experience Key Responsibilities Technical Design & Coordination Review, prepare, and coordinate architectural drawing packages, technical details, schedules, and specifications across tender, construction, and as-built stagesTranslate concept and planning-stage information into coordinated, construction-ready packagesManage and review consultant information across architectural, structural, MEP, fire, façade, interior, and landscape workstreams to ensure integration and eliminate clashesCoordinate design information in line with the project brief, planning conditions, Building Regulations, warranty requirements, and employer standardsIdentify and resolve coordination conflicts between architectural, structural, and MEP information using BIM workflows and drawing coordination processes Planning & Statutory Compliance Assist in discharging planning conditions and ensuring technical submissions remain aligned with approved consentsReview accessibility, space planning, and apartment layouts against UK residential standards, including London Plan, NDSS, and M4 requirements where applicableContribute to design risk reviews and support CDM compliance at design stage Construction & Site Liaise with contractors, subcontractors, statutory authorities, approved inspectors, and utility providers throughout deliveryConduct site inspections, monitor construction progress against drawings and specifications, and identify non-conformances and coordination gapsRespond to RFIs and technical queries in a timely, commercially aware mannerSupport quality assurance processes, including benchmark reviews, sample apartments, façade interfaces, and finishing standards Early-Stage & Feasibility Prepare and coordinate feasibility layouts, massing studies, and technical assessments to support acquisition, planning, and development appraisal activitiesAssess site constraints, efficiency metrics, unit mix, circulation, servicing, and buildability at concept stage Handover & Closeout Support handover documentation, O&M information coordination, snagging close-out, and production of as-built recordsMaintain document control standards, revision management, drawing registers, and audit trails across all technical information Candidate Profile Experience 4-8+ years in a technical delivery role on UK residential projectsStrong track record coordinating external architects and consultant teams during technical design and construction phasesProven experience on medium to large-scale residential developments - apartment-led or mixed-use schemes in London or major UK urban locationsPrior experience on BTR, private sale residential, student accommodation, or high-density housing schemes is highly advantageousSolid grounding in RIBA Stages 3-5 from developed design through to practical completionExperience preparing residential feasibility studies, test fits, and massing exercises Skills & Knowledge Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential; Revit and BIM-based coordination experience is strongly preferredSound knowledge of UK Building Regulations and technical standards relevant to residential designGood understanding of planning compliance, statutory approvals, and technical submission processesPractical understanding of construction sequencing, site logistics, and buildabilityStrong space planning and residential layout capabilityCommercial awareness - able to balance design quality, compliance, cost, and programmeExcellent organisational skills, document control discipline, and attention to detailCompetence in Microsoft Office and common document management platforms Qualifications Degree, diploma, HNC/HND, or equivalent in Architectural Technology, Architecture, Building Studies, or a related built environment disciplineDemonstrated right to work in the UKCIAT membership (ACIAT or MCIAT) is advantageous but not essential Personal Attributes Detail-oriented and technically rigorous, with a solutions-led mindsetDelivery-focused and comfortable in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial development environmentConfident challenging inconsistencies and driving coordinated outcomesCollaborative and professional in dealings with consultants, contractors, and internal stakeholders
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