Associate Director – Architect (Expert and Advisory Services)

Rimkus; City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consulting firm seeks a Chartered Architect with robust expertise in architectural design and construction for expert witness roles. Responsibilities include preparing expert reports and conducting forensic analyses. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience, strong communication skills, and familiarity with regulatory frameworks. The role offers flexible remote working and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Continuous professional development

Remote working flexibility

Mentorship from industry experts

Qualifications

• 10 years post-qualification experience as a Chartered Architect.
• Experience in expert witness work and formal dispute resolution.
• Strong understanding of building regulations and fire safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical expert in disputes related to building design and construction.
• Prepare expert reports for disputes and litigation.
• Conduct forensic analysis of construction records and site conditions.

Skills

Expertise in architectural design and construction

Technical advisory skills

Communication skills

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Chartered Architect (ARB/RIBA)

LLM/MSc or equivalent in Construction Law or Arbitration

Tools

Revit

ArchiCad

Job description

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Act as lead expert or assistant in disputes involving architectural design, construction defects, professional negligence, and regulatory compliance.
• Prepare expert reports for use in litigation, arbitration, adjudication, and mediation, including CPR Part 35 compliant reports.
• Undertake forensic analysis of design documentation, construction records, and site conditions to identify causation and liability.
• Provide technical advisory services to clients including insurers, developers, housing associations, and legal teams.
• Contribute to the development of remedial strategies, including feasibility assessments, specification and design drawings for costing.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including fire engineers, façade consultants, and quantity surveyors.
• Support business development through client engagement, thought leadership, and participation in industry forums.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, EDUCATION, and CERTIFICATIONS

• Chartered Architect (ARB/RIBA) with a minimum of 10 years post-qualification experience.
• Proven track record in expert witness work, including experience of giving evidence or preparing reports for formal dispute resolution.
• Strong technical knowledge of building design, construction detailing, and regulatory frameworks (e.g. Building Regulations, fire safety, CDM).
• Experience across a range of building types, particularly residential, healthcare, and commercial sectors.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex technical issues clearly and persuasively.
• Familiarity with consultant appointments, procurement routes, and construction contracts

DESIRABLE ATTRIBUTES

• Membership of The Academy of Experts (AMAE) or similar professional body.
• LLM/MSc or equivalent qualification in Construction Law or Arbitration.
• Experience in drone-assisted building surveys and digital inspection technologies.
• Experience with Revit and or ArchiCad.

Why Join Us

• Be mentored by industry leading experts in engineering and construction law.
• Work on high profile international disputes and expert witness appointments.
• Access to continuous professional development and advanced legal/technical training.
• Enjoy the flexibility of remote working with opportunities for global travel.
• Join a culture that values integrity, accountability, commitment, and teamwork.

Join Rimkus and unlock your potential with our great opportunities for your growth, learning, and making a difference!

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions. We are an equal-opportunity employer.

Applicants are advised that the roles described are based in the United Kingdom and will require the right to work in the UK.

Rimkus (rimkus.com) is a worldwide leader in Engineering and Technical Consulting. Rimkus experts specialise in building envelope, engineering, forensic consulting, dispute resolution, construction management services, and solutions built for the environment.

At Rimkus, we value a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees feel valued and respected. We are committed to creating a work environment that supports and celebrates the unique perspectives and experiences of all employees. If you share our commitment to diversity and inclusivity and are excited about joining a welcoming and supportive team, we encourage you to apply for our open positions.

#LI-SW1