Architect

Overview

About Stef & Philips: Choosing to work here is about more than just having a job. Our team shares the goal of helping vulnerable people across the UK by delivering safe, suitable homes and vital services for the homeless, backed by investors who care. Our people-centred ethos is reflected in our culture, prioritising wellbeing, inclusion, and opportunity for all.

Our journey began in 2006 as a traditional family-run lettings agent in North London. In 2012, responding to the UK's need for good quality social housing, we expanded UK-wide with over 3,800 accommodation units and 5,500+ tenants. We bring together private investors, local authorities, charities, and housing associations to deliver fit-for-purpose accommodation and services through an end-to-end model. All work is carried out by in-house teams to ensure reliable, high-quality service. We believe everyone deserves a safe place to call home and are committed to changing the housing crisis through a model that combines profit with purpose. Our roots as a family business remain at the core of who we are and the values that guide us.

The Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced architect with specialized knowledge in House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) compliance to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of HMO regulations, standards, and best practices, coupled with strong architectural expertise. As an Architect specializing in HMO compliance, you will be responsible for ensuring that our projects meet all relevant regulations and guidelines related to HMO properties.

Main Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the assessment and evaluation of architectural designs to ensure compliance with HMO regulations, including space standards, fire safety, amenity provision, and occupancy requirements.
• Stay updated on all relevant HMO regulations, building codes, and standards to ensure designs meet or exceed legal requirements.
• Collaborate with project managers, engineers, contractors, and other stakeholders to integrate HMO compliance considerations into architectural designs from conception to completion.
• Provide innovative architectural solutions that balance aesthetic appeal with practicality and regulatory compliance for HMO properties.
• Prepare and review architectural drawings, specifications, and other project documentation to ensure alignment with HMO regulations and standards.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders to explain HMO compliance requirements, address concerns, and provide recommendations for achieving compliance within project parameters.
• Conduct site inspections to verify compliance with approved architectural designs and regulatory requirements throughout the construction process.
• Identify potential compliance issues and propose creative solutions to ensure projects meet HMO regulations without compromising design integrity.
• Actively seek opportunities to enhance knowledge and skills related to HMO compliance, architectural design, and relevant technologies.

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge and experience working in temporary and emergency accommodation would be highly beneficial.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
• Professional architectural license.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in architectural design, with a focus on HMO compliance.
• In-depth knowledge of HMO regulations, building codes, and standards.
• Proficiency in architectural design software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or SketchUp.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and independently when necessary.
• Attention to detail and ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Experience in sustainable design practices (preferred).
• Certification in HMO compliance or related field (preferred).
• Working on own initiative without close supervision and as part of a team.
• Work flexibly to meet the varying demands of the role in order to achieve agreed outcomes.

Benefits

• 23 days leave, plus bank holidays
• Additional holiday days for long service - up to 28 days
• Celebration of tenure with 3 years £500, 5 years £1000, 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 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

Diversity & Inclusion

Stefi & Philips is built on acceptance, respect, and inclusion, where everyone feels that they belong and can make a meaningful contribution. We encourage applicants regardless of religion, ethnicity, nationality, disability status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family, or parental status. If you need any assistance or accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know.

We'd be delighted if you tick off all our boxes, but we also believe it's just as important we tick all of yours. If you think you have most of what we're looking for but not everything, go ahead and apply. We'd still love to hear from you!