Apply to be a Student Sustainability Architect
Are you looking for a part time role that does more than just pay the bills?
Applications are now open for paid, part-time roles where you can co-design and lead a range of projects on and around campus. All the projects are designed to create a positive impact whilst providing you with skills and work experience that look great on your CV. And of course you get paid too!
Applications for the 2024/25 academic year are open until Sunday 6 October 2024.
You can find more details below and see the full project listing in the candidate brief (PDF) and apply through the job listing on the University of Leeds Jobs portal.
Start your application
Frequently asked questions
What does the role entail?
The Student Sustainability Architect programme offers flexible part-time roles with the Sustainability Service and our partners. As an architect, you will work up to 100 hours over the course of the academic year to bring new ideas and a student perspective to sustainability projects across the University. On average you could expect to work around 4-6 hours a week alongside your academic studies and other commitments, although this can vary by project.
You will work collaboratively with a project supervisor to develop your objectives, deliver your project, review progress and present your outcomes at the end of the academic year. You will also attend induction sessions, communications training, social networking events and an end of year celebration.
For most projects there will be a significant element of independent work, although there will also be opportunities to collaborate with other Student Sustainability Architects, with colleagues across the Sustainability Service and with partners both inside and outside the University.
For many projects, there is flexibility over when and where you work your hours to deliver the project. On some projects you may be required to deliver activities or attend meetings at specific times and locations, but you'll be able to discuss and agree these with your project supervisor.
To find out more, you can explore some of the projects that previous Student Sustainability Architects have completed.
Who can apply?
Any student enrolled onto a degree programme (undergraduate or postgraduate) at the University of Leeds for the 2024-25 academic year can apply.
Despite the name 'Student Sustainability Architect’, you don’t have to be studying sustainability – we actively encourage applications from across all Schools, disciplines and levels. All we ask is that you have an interest in making a positive impact!
We also actively encourage applications from students from different backgrounds and under-represented groups, reflecting the breadth of our diverse University community. Candidates wil always be selected based on merit and ability.
What are the benefits of the role?
Alongside being paid £12.21 per hour, you will have the opportunity to deliver a project which supports the University’s strategic sustainability objectives and has real impact across the University and beyond.
You will develop a range of transferable and sustainability-specific skills, helping you to boost your CV and career prospects.
Through collaborative project delivery and attending events you will expand your professional network of University staff, students, and community partners. You will also be given the chance to contribute to the wider web of sustainability activity at the University including events, campaigns and initiatives aimed at engaging the University community with our work.
What is the application process like?
To apply, you need to follow the online application process on the University of Leeds Jobs portal. We cannot accept applications via email.
You will be asked to submit your course of study and education / employment history alongside two supporting statements, These should outline firstly what you can bring to the role, and secondly what you hope to gain by joining the programme. You can also upload a CV if you have one, however this is optional.
Applications close on Sunday 6 October 2024 and will be assessed by the group of project supervisors.
If you are shortlisted from the online applications, you will be invited to attend an assessment centre in October where you will be asked to take part in a mix of group activities alongside a short interview. This process aims to give all candidates the best opportunity to demonstrate what they can bring to the role, and we are happy to discuss reasonable adjustments to allow participation from all shortlisted candidates.
Can I pick which project I would like to apply for?
For the 2024-25 academic year, we are recruiting for twenty-six different projects. You can find a more detailed outline of each project in the candidate brief (PDF).
Your application will be to join the Student Sustainability Architect programme and we cannot guarantee that you would be offered your preferred project if successful. However, we always aim to match successful applicants with projects of interest to them. Within the application process you can highlight your top three preferred projects. We would encourage you to be open to a number of different projects, all of which offer great opportunities and experience.