RPS is looking for a Senior Consultant and/or Associate to join our Built Heritage team. This is a rare opportunity for a consultant to take on and develop an existing client base. The RPS Heritage team is one of the most established and well-respected heritage teams in the country with roots going back more than 25 years. Many of the team have been with us for 10 years or more, and regardless of which office you join, you will have the opportunity to be mentored by the best in the business. While we are proud to be part of a large, multi-national company, we are in essence a close-knit community of around 40 people. We invest in our team and aim to see the best people join and progress rapidly.

The position is primarily based in our London office, but following our adoption of agile working practices, we will consider candidates based across the country, with options to work from Southampton, Gloucester, Abingdon, or Edinburgh offices. The successful candidate will likely need to attend the office at least once a week.

You will join an experienced heritage team working on some of the country's most significant and complex heritage projects. We offer a wide range of project experiences, working with English Heritage, Historic Royal Palaces, major developers, regeneration leaders, and individual property owners. There are opportunities to collaborate with major interdisciplinary teams and innovative architects to deliver outstanding developments.

What you will be doing

1. Preparation of Heritage Statements, Environmental Statements, and Listed Building Consent applications
2. Line management and mentoring of junior staff
3. Business development
4. Liaison with clients, local planning authorities, and stakeholders
5. Expert Witness work, including attendance at Public Inquiries
6. Financial management of projects to ensure timely and within-budget delivery

Who we are looking for

We value commercial awareness and seek Built Heritage experts with a pragmatic approach to the historic environment, capable of guiding clients through heritage constraints. You should be technically experienced and motivated to engage with stakeholders to contribute to delivering the government’s goal of 1.5 million new homes. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in providing heritage advice on major projects, experience as an expert witness, and membership or working towards membership of the IHBC. A relevant degree in conservation of historic buildings and a strong knowledge of the planning system are required. If you do not meet all these criteria, we encourage you to apply—our focus is on potential and aptitude, and we are committed to mentoring candidates.

What is in it for you?

Our staff enjoy competitive salaries, opportunities for investment, and benefits including 25 days holiday plus bank holidays (with options to purchase more), pension scheme, disability scheme, share incentive scheme, life assurance, cycle-to-work, health screening, employee assistance, dental cover, subsidized gym, professional memberships, and discounts via BenefitHub. We support your personal development with clear career pathways and are an ILM-accredited training provider, offering professional development up to master’s degree level in leadership, management, coaching, and mentoring.

We value diversity and encourage different perspectives and ideas. Our workplace promotes flexibility, with hybrid working options to suit individual needs. We are committed to wellbeing and creating an inclusive environment.

What happens next?

The Talent Acquisition Team will contact you regarding your application. If shortlisted, you will have informal discussions with Duncan Hawkins, Simon Mortimer, or Richard Smalley before a formal interview. All applications are welcome and considered.

About RPS

We are RPS, creating projects that add shared value in a resource-scarce world. Our flat organizational structure fosters collaboration and swift communication, enabling us to work with some of the brightest minds in the industry. Join us for stimulating and rewarding work.