How to land a Part 2 Architectural Assistant Role in 2025
So, you’ve smashed your Part 1 and put the late nights in at uni, now comes the exciting bit. Stepping into a Part 2 Architectural Assistant role. It’s the point where everything starts to click, the creativity, the collaboration, and the real world projects.
But how do you stand out from hundreds of other talented grads trying to do the same thing? That’s where we’ve got your back.
At Konker, we speak to practices every day who are hiring Part 2’s across the UK, so we know exactly what makes candidates shine (and what makes them blend in).
What employers are looking for
There’s more to landing a Part 2 role than having a beautiful portfolio (though that definitely helps). Practices are on the lookout for people who can:
- Show confidence with design and technical tools.
- Communicate ideas clearly. That’s visually and verbally.
- Work collaboratively in a team.
- Demonstrate commercial awareness and curiosity about how buildings are made.
Bonus points if you can show real-world project exposure from your Part 1 experience or year out.
How to make your portfolio stand out
Your portfolio is your golden ticket, but it doesn’t need to be 50 pages long. Here’s what employers tell us they love:
- Keep it short and strong (10-15 pages max).
- Show your process, not just the pretty end render.
- Include a clear contents page and consistent layout.
- Try to tailor it to each practice… they can tell when you’ve made the effort.
And don’t forget your personality should shine through just as much as your visuals. Practices hire people, not just drawings.
Nail the interview
By the time you reach the interview stage, your design ability is already clear. What employers are testing now is how you think. Be ready to:
- Talk through your projects – what challenges you faced, how you problem solved.
- Show your curiosity for architecture, sustainability, and the industry
- Ask thoughtful questions (about mentorship, team culture, projects, etc.)
Top tip: Don’t try to sound too formal. Be professional, but conversational. Just like how you’d collaborate in a studio.
Ready to find your next Part 2 role?
If you’re on the hunt for your next step, we’ve got Part 2 Architectural Assistant roles across the UK.
Or, if you’re not quite sure what’s right for you, reach out to one of our consultants – we’ll try out best to match you with a team that fits your skills and personality.
