Trainee Retrofit Designer – Entry-Level Job in Sustainable Construction

SERT Group Limited; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 22,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a leading company in sustainable construction as a Trainee Retrofit Designer. This entry-level role is ideal for recent architecture graduates eager to gain hands-on experience in low-carbon building design, contributing to the UK’s commitment to net-zero while working with an expert team. You'll be involved in producing technical drawings and assisting with planning applications, all while enjoying growth opportunities in a burgeoning field.

Benefits

Health and wellbeing programme

Company pension scheme

Performance-based bonus

Ongoing training and career development

Qualifications

• Degree in architecture or built environment is essential.
• Proficient in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Effective communicator and detail-oriented.

Responsibilities

• Produce technical drawings and prioritize workload.
• Stay updated on industry standards like PAS 2035.
• Assist with planning applications for retrofit projects.

Skills

Communication

Organizational skills

Time management

Detail-oriented

Education

Degree in architecture or built environment

Tools

AutoCAD

Adobe InDesign

Photoshop

Microsoft Excel

Job description

Trainee Retrofit Designer – Entry-Level Job in Sustainable Construction

Contract Type: Full Time

Location: Nottingham Area

Region: Nottinghamshire

About the Role

Are you a recent architecture graduate or a professional with a built environment background looking to start your career in retrofit and sustainable construction? This is an excellent opportunity to gain industry knowledge in low-carbon building design by working with an experienced team in one of the UK’s most in-demand sectors.

We are hiring a Trainee Retrofit Designer for our Nottingham-based team. This office-based role is suitable for someone passionate about energy efficiency, green building design, and technical drawing, with strong skills in AutoCAD and Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign and Photoshop).

Key Responsibilities:

• Produce technical drawings, including floor plans and thermal bridging details, using AutoCAD.
• Prioritize workload to meet project schedules and coordinate with internal teams, installers, and clients.
• Stay updated on industry standards like PAS 2035, PAS 2030:2023, and RdSAP assessments.
• Support the development of internal retrofit design templates.
• Assist with planning applications and approvals for domestic retrofit projects under Community Home Solutions.
• Build and maintain relationships with Local Authority planning teams to support project requirements.

Essential Skills, Experience, and Qualifications:

• Degree in architecture, built environment, or a related field.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD, Adobe InDesign, and Photoshop.
• Strong Microsoft Office skills, especially Excel.
• Detail-oriented with excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Effective communicator and team player.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.
• Previous experience in domestic retrofit or knowledge of PAS 2035 guidelines is desirable.
• Knowledge of UK housing retrofit standards and energy-efficient building techniques is a plus.

Benefits:

• Health and wellbeing programme
• Company pension scheme
• Performance-based bonus
• Ongoing training and career development in retrofit design

Why Choose a Career in Retrofit Design?

With the UK’s commitment to net-zero and the increasing demand for green jobs and sustainable housing upgrades, roles in retrofit and energy-efficient construction are more relevant than ever. This is your chance to be part of the transformation in the built environment and develop a long-term career.

Diversity and Inclusion

At SERT, we are committed to reflecting the diverse communities we serve. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including:

• Ex-forces personnel and ex-offenders
• Those returning to work after a career break
• Individuals facing barriers to employment

We collaborate with partners like Bridge of Hope Careers to ensure inclusive hiring practices and provide equal opportunities for all.

If you're interested in expanding or transitioning your career, SERT offers specialised training courses in electrical work, solar energy, batteries, air source heat pumps, and domestic heating. These industry-recognised qualifications can help you explore new opportunities in the energy and utilities sectors.

Contact our team today to learn more about enrolling in a course and advancing your career in these growing industries.