We are looking for a talented Graduate/Assistant-level designer, welcoming applications from Landscape Architects or Architects, with strong visual, design and technical curiosity, to join our creative studio on a freelance / contract basis.
This role is suitable for recent graduates or early-career professionals (typically 6–18 months experience is advantageous) who are eager to develop their practice skills while contributing to real projects across the UK and internationally.
If you are passionate about design, enjoy working across scales, and want hands-on exposure to real project delivery within a collaborative studio environment, we would like to hear from you.
About us
Gillespies LLP is a diverse and free-thinking team of landscape architects, masterplanners and urban designers.
We believe great places are created when people, nature and design intelligence work in balance. While technology is transforming design practice, we value the human insight, creativity and storytelling that shape enduring environments.
Our work spans large-scale landscape, public realm and urban regeneration projects in the UK and internationally.
Role scope
You will support project teams in a design-led, professional studio environment. Typical activities may include:
Preparation of presentation materials across digital, 3D and graphic media Development of drawings and packages for planning, technical, tender and construction stages Conceptual sketching, illustrative design and visualisation support Contribution to design research, precedent studies, materials exploration and technical references Drafting, setting up and amending drawings in accordance with studio CAD/BIM standards Project file management, drawing issue coordination, printing and documentation control Participation in internal design discussions and project meetings Fieldwork, site surveys and research tasks where required Design, digital and emerging technology skills We are particularly interested in candidates who are curious about how digital innovation and AI-assisted workflows are shaping modern design practice.
You should demonstrate an interest in:
Design exploration using emerging digital tools 3D Visualisation, graphic communication and workflow optimisation Data-informed design research and analysis Experimentation with new design technologies within a studio environment Freelance working considerations This is a freelance / contract role. Candidates should therefore be able to confirm:
Professional Professional Indemnity (PI) insurance coverage appropriate to freelance design work Familiarity with industry-standard design tools used in landscape and architectural practice Access to your own laptop and business licensed core design software
Software list :
Essential
Adobe Creative Cloud (with access to Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator as a minimum)
Microsoft 365 or Studio 2019 with MS Teams.
AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
Desirable based on project requirements
Autodesk Revit
Autodesk Navisworks & Manager
ArcGIS Desktop Pro
Autodesk Civil 3D
Sketch-up Pro
Google Earth Pro
NBS Chorus
Rhino
What we are looking for
Education and professional development
Relevant degree in Landscape Architecture, Architecture, or related design discipline
Post-graduate qualification is desirable
Student member of the Landscape Institute (or equivalent) working toward professional accreditation is advantageous
Technical and planning awareness
Basic understanding of the UK planning system and policy context
Awareness of technical standards relevant to design and construction documentation
Exposure to professional studio processes and project delivery stages
Communication and creative capability
Strong written, verbal and visual communication skills
Ability to develop hand sketches, digital drawings and presentation graphics
Creative problem-solving mindset
Personal attributes
Flexible and adaptable working style
Curious and eager to learn
Resilient and proactive
Passionate about design quality
Self-motivated and collaborative
How to apply
If you believe you are a good match for this opportunity, please submit your CV and portfolio using the Apply For This Job button above.
Equal opportunities
Gillespies LLP is an equal opportunities employer.
