Associate

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Your Role
We are offering a rare and exciting opportunity for an experienced Associate Architect to join our Perth studio and play a key leadership role within our growing national practice.
As an Associate, you will be responsible for the successful establishment and oversight of projects, with a particular focus on medium to large-scale work in sectors such as Commercial, Industrial and more. You'll bring a holistic perspective to project delivery, ensuring success across all phases – from design through to construction – while maintaining design integrity and client satisfaction.
This role offers more than project leadership – it's about shaping our studio culture and nurturing our people. You'll lead a small, engaged team and work closely with Senior Associates and national leaders to drive the strategic direction of the business. You'll also play a key role in building team capability: coaching, mentoring and empowering others to do their best work, while role modelling Watson Young's values and supporting a positive and productive studio environment.
We are ideally looking for a full-time, five-day-per-week candidate, but we are open to flexible hours for the right person, please share your preferences on your application.
Your Responsibilities
Project Leadership and Oversight
: Lead the delivery of architectural projects from inception through to completion, ensuring alignment with client objectives, managing risk, coordinating consultants, and maintaining project timelines, budgets, and quality.
Team Leadership and Development
: Lead a small, high-performing team – setting clear goals, mentoring and coaching individuals, driving performance, and role modelling Watson Young's values and positive studio culture.
Design and Documentation Excellence
: Champion design quality across all phases, from concept to detailed documentation, collaborating with senior leaders and conducting key reviews to meet internal QA standards.
Client Relationship Management
: Build and sustain strong relationships with clients, providing clear and consistent communication, managing scope and contracts, and supporting ongoing business development opportunities.
Strategic and Financial Accountability
: Collaborate with Senior Associates and Directors on project financials, reporting, and risk management to support the practice's strategic direction and commercial success.
About you
Substantial Architectural Design experience, preferably as a qualified or registered architect, in medium to large scale architectural projects.
Experience in Commercial and Education sectors preferred.
Strong technical acumen and contract admin experience.
Strong Revit and design software understanding in order to run project teams.
Proven ability to manage and oversee multiple projects simultaneously, including full tender and lump sum project deliverables.
Strong communication skills with the ability to proactively manage client relationships, collaborate with consultants, and engage effectively with internal team members.
To be eligible for this role you must live and be legally able to work in Australia.
Our Company
At Watson Young, communication and listening is where design starts. We approach our work with a good eye, and an even better ear, allowing us to create exceptionally designed projects.
With offices in Melbourne, Geelong, Perth, Sydney and Brisbane, we work across a broad spectrum of disciplines including the Commercial, Industrial, Residential, Interior Design, Master planning, and Education sectors, among many others.
Our team's passion for building strong and lasting relationships with a no fuss, honest approach has earned us many loyal clients and will continue to underpin the work we do in the future.
Our Values
At Watson Young, our commitment to our people is absolute. Whether it's our clients or our team, we actively listen and strive for creative excellence, all while establishing pride within our community and industry. We believe and live these values to drive our practice forward.
Creative Listening: We lead by listening: Our practice is dedicated to maintaining a culture of creativity, inclusivity and collaboration amongst our team and clients. We are passionate about leading with questions to understand our clients, being receptive to new ideas, and designing with intent.
Genuine Affect: We impact through design: We push the boundaries with purposeful innovation and the pursuit of excellence. We create conscious solutions that prioritise what matters to our clients. Our team are committed to positive change that goes beyond the built environment; it's ingrained in our culture.
Enduring Pride: We are proud of our legacy: We shape the future by creating meaningful experiences and designs that connect people and places. It begins with the relationships we develop within our practice, amongst our clients, and community, and it progresses into the spaces we transform. We strive to inspire and leave a lasting impact.
What is on Offer?
Supportive Team Environment: In an industry dominated by ego, we saw an opportunity to do something different. That's why in 2004 we founded a human-centered architectural practice that placed strong client relationships at the centre of its ethos.
Work- Life Balance: We recognise the importance of balance. Enjoy a workplace that respects your person life and well-being, providing a healthy office environment and flexible work opportunities.
Ongoing Learning & Development: Personalised learning and development budgets for each employee, along with continuous support to help you reach your career goals.
The Other Perks: No two days are ever the same at WYA, from Table Tennis Tournaments, Soccer competitions, End of Month Celebrations, Play Days, Book Club and dogs in the office, there is a little bit for everyone
How to apply
Ready to join the team? Click 'APPLY' and submit your resume and portfolio today
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