Grade / LevelIntermediate Senior Professional / Specialist Grade
Reporting To Principal Architect / Head of Conservation
LocationNational — with travel to monument sites as required
Contract TypePermanent / Fixed-Term (Public Sector)
SalaryCommensurate with public sector pay scales (RIAI Grade)
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and dedicated Conservation Architect to join our team in delivering high-quality conservation and restoration works on Ireland's most significant protected national monuments. Working directly for a public service client, the successful candidate will lead and contribute to complex heritage projects that safeguard the built environment for future generations.
This is a rewarding opportunity for a passionate conservation professional to apply specialist skills within a multi-disciplinary team, working across an exceptional portfolio of State-owned historical structures, protected buildings, and scheduled monuments.
Key Responsibilities
Project Delivery
Lead and manage conservation and restoration projects on national monuments from inception through to completion, ensuring compliance with conservation best practice and statutory obligations.
Prepare, coordinate, and review architectural drawings, specifications, schedules of works, and contract documentation for conservation projects.
Undertake detailed condition surveys, building pathology investigations, and heritage impact assessments on protected structures.
Develop and implement Conservation Management Plans (CMPs) and Conservation Plans in accordance with ICOMOS standards and national policy.
Manage contractor and specialist sub‑contractor performance on site, ensuring quality, programme, and cost targets are met.
Technical & BIM
Produce and coordinate Building Information Models (BIM) using Autodesk Revit, developing Heritage BIM (HBIM) workflows appropriate to existing historic fabric.
Ensure BIM deliverables meet client EIR (Employer's Information Requirements) and comply with ISO 19650 standards.
Utilise point cloud and photogrammetric survey data to inform accurate as‑existing models of historic structures.
Coordinate BIM inputs across multi‑disciplinary teams including structural, mechanical, electrical, and conservation specialists.
Compliance & Statutory
Liaise with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, the National Monuments Service, and other statutory authorities on consents, permissions, and compliance.
Prepare and manage applications for Ministerial Consent under the National Monuments Acts and relevant planning permissions.
Ensure all works comply with the Building Regulations, Conservation Principles (OPW/DHLGH), and relevant EU Directives.
Maintain up‑to‑date knowledge of Irish and European heritage legislation, policy, and best conservation practice.
Stakeholder & Client Management
Act as a primary point of contact for the public sector client, providing regular project updates and technical advice.
Engage proactively with heritage stakeholders, community groups, and government departments as required.
Contribute to public outreach, interpretation, and educational activities associated with national monuments.
Mentor and support junior architectural and technical staff within the team.
Qualification & Registration
Experience
✔ Professional degree in Architecture (RIBA/RIAI Part III equivalent or higher)
✔ Full registration with the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI)
✔ Minimum 5 years' post‑qualification experience in architectural conservation
✔ Demonstrable experience working on protected structures and/or national monuments
✔ Experience with public sector procurement and contracts (GCCC / RIAI forms)
Desirable Skills & Advantageous Experience
Proficiency in Autodesk Revit and BIM authoring tools, with experience in Heritage BIM (HBIM) methodologies — experience with BIM is considered a significant advantage for this role.
Familiarity with point cloud software (e.g. Leica Cyclone, Autodesk ReCap) and photogrammetric workflows for existing structure capture.
Knowledge of traditional building materials and crafts, including lime mortars, natural stone, historic masonry, and timber.
Experience with the Office of Public Works (OPW) or other state heritage bodies.
Demonstrated ability to prepare and present successful Ministerial Consent applications.
Competence in AutoCAD and/or ArchiCAD as supplementary tools.
Strong written communication skills with experience preparing Heritage Impact Assessments, Conservation Reports, and Condition Surveys.
Commitment to the principles and ethics of conservation architecture and sustainable heritage management.
Strong organisational and project management capability, able to manage multiple concurrent projects.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to engage diverse stakeholders.
High attention to detail and a methodical approach to technical documentation.
Collaborative team player with the ability to lead and mentor others.
A genuine passion for Ireland's built heritage and the public interest in its protection.
What We Offer
The opportunity to work on some of Ireland's most iconic and historically significant national monuments.
A supportive public service environment with a strong emphasis on professional development and CPD.
Access to cutting‑edge heritage survey technology and specialist conservation resources.
Competitive public sector salary and benefits.
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements where operationally feasible.
Meaningful, purpose‑driven work that contributes directly to the preservation of Ireland's national identity.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a current curriculum vitae, a covering letter addressing the essential and desirable criteria, and a portfolio of relevant conservation projects (max. 10 pages) to the address below.
Applications are assessed on a rolling basis. Early application is strongly encouraged.
This public sector body is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified persons.
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