Architect Job Description, Skills, and Salary
Get to know about the duties, responsibilities, qualifications, and skills requirements of an architect. Feel free to use our architect job description template to produce your own. We also provide you with information about the salary you can earn as an architect.
Who is an Architect?
Throughout medieval and ancient times or history, most of the designs and construction were carried out by artisans such as carpenters and stonemasons. Moreover, people need places to live, play, learn, eat, work, worship, shop, govern, and meet. These places can either be public and private or indoors and outdoors. Certain individuals turned professionals are responsible for designing and scheming these places. They’ve undergone specific training spanning through education, experience, or certification. Additionally, they possess inherent and acquired skills, abilities, and expertise that enable them to perform their tasks efficiently. The process of designing buildings is called architecture while professionals who design structures are known as architects. Architects are licensed and certified professionals trained in the science and art of building and design; they develop and create the concepts for buildings and structures and convert them into reality.
Therefore, an architect is defined as an individual who organizes, plans, designs, and oversees the construction of buildings and other structures. The practice of architecture involves providing services related to the design of structures and the space within the building site. Importantly, the architect’s decisions and recommendations have effects on human occupancy, public safety, and environmental safety. Hence, an architect must undergo specialized and rigorous training that includes practicum or internship, and advanced education to gain licensure. Although architect undergoes their formal education in academic citadels of learning, practical training and experience may vary based on the setting, location, or region of the world.
The architect when fully licensed can practice independently without supervision and they would need technical and environmental knowledge, design and construction management, and a crude understanding of business. However, knowledge and familiarity with design are the driving force throughout the project and beyond. An integral part of architectural design is that the architect often accepts commissions and directives from customers or clients. Such directives may encompass building audits, feasibility studies and reports, the space among buildings, and the design of several structures. While working closely with the client, the architect participates in creating the requirements of the building or structure; they make meaningful inputs to help meet the client’s needs. Relatively, the architect is involved in the entire process from planning to occupancy. They coordinate and delegate responsibilities to the design team and work in tandem with structural, electrical, and mechanical engineers to get the job done. Similarly, they cooperate with non-technical staff hired by the client to ensure that the design is fully constructed.
Furthermore, the architect ensures that buildings and structures will be safe, economical, functional, and suit the needs of the customers that will use them. Using their creativity and problem-solving abilities, architects take the client’s vision, compare it with budgeting needs and environmental factors, and make excellent designs of houses, stadiums, office buildings, and other forms of infrastructure. Before starting construction, the architect creates blueprints that are drawn to scale and shares them with coworkers and other specialists. They suggest the type of materials to use in the structure based on their survey of the structural needs and local environment. In some cases, the architect is responsible for obtaining permits and clearance to use certain materials on the building site.
An architect’s duties aren’t restricted to designing new buildings alone; they also design extensions or alterations to existing buildings as well as offer advice on the conservation and restoration of old structures. Architects usually work on individual buildings or on large redevelopment schemes where they design the surrounding landscapes and spaces respectively. They are predominantly based in offices; however, an architect will make occasional visits to clients and building sites to supervise the construction. Most organizations and employers provide safety equipment such as headgears, first aid boxes, and safety boots to prevent accidents and other occupational hazards; the architect must wear them when visiting building sites.
As an architect, you will deal with local and federal jurisdictions about regulations and building codes. In relation, communities and niches have certain planning and zoning laws such as height limitations, required setbacks, land use, parking requirements, and transparency requirements. The architect should be prepared to comply and abide by them. In some terrains, the architect must adhere to design and historic preservation guidelines and health and safety risk assessment requirements. Thus, an architect should consider materials and contaminants, waste management and recycling, traffic control, and fire safety while filling design reports. Successful architects are renowned for being able to convincingly pass their ideas across to clients; they spend a lot of time explaining their unique designs and vision to customers, contractors, and other construction workers. The architect-client relationship is essential since they both discuss the requirements, objectives, and budget of a building project. After discussing and agreeing on the initial proposal, the architects create the ultimate building plan that depicts the structure’s outlook and provide details for its construction. Notably, these plans are accompanied and supplemented by drawings of the structural system.
In conclusion, an architect uses his/her advanced knowledge of computer programs including 3D software programs, building information management, AutoCAD computer-aided design, and cloud-based technologies to create and develop designs. As the project wanes on, the architect mediates, consults, interfaces, and arbitrates with engineers, clients, contractors, and other specialists to make sure that aspects of air conditioning, ventilation, heating, and structural support are properly integrated into the designed buildings. When necessary, architects make modifications to the original design throughout the project cycle. The following are the most common types of architects;
Planning architects: These are architects employed and brought into an ongoing project to offer advice on the project’s adherence to local and national requirements, laws, and regulations.
Technical architects: Technical architects are professionals primarily concerned with the technical aspects of a construction or building such as its water tightness and thermal efficiency. They study and modify a structure’s mechanics and details to ensure buildings meet regional and local standards.
Design architect: A design architect works on the overall design and structure of a building. They might develop the initial outline of a building, formulate blueprints, or adjust the building design to meet the customers’ preferences. In some cases, the design architect also contributes to the selection of the materials used in building the structure.
Site architects: These are individuals responsible for overseeing the entire activities on a construction site from start to finish. They may give instructions to construction workers and make sure that quality and safety measures are practiced throughout the project’s cycle.
Architect Job Description
Below are the architect job description examples you can use to develop your resume or write an architect job description for your employee. Employers can also use it to sieve out job seekers when choosing candidates for interviews.
With a growing population and an increasing number of developing countries, demand for new buildings, constructions, and structures has skyrocketed around the world. Before construction crews start a project, the architect must get plans down on paper and validate the design. Architects develop creative concepts in different industries to construct buildings and structures that conform to the wishes of the client. The responsibilities of an architect aren’t restricted to the aesthetic appeal alone; it covers the safety and functionality of the building as well as the economic aspects. The following responsibilities and duties are common for architects;
- Develop an architecture that aligns with a client’s needs.
- Oversee the architectural project to ensure functional and premium quality design.
- Produce the blueprint of a project.
- Meet with clients to determine their needs and requirements.
- Manage design projects from conception through to completion.
- Develop and present project proposals to clients or employers.
- Adjust designs and plans when required to meet the clients’ specifications.
- Prepare drawings, specifications, and construction documents.
- Conduct research and compile reports on feasibility and environmental impact.
- Determine and adhere to budgets and timelines.
- Comply with local planning regulations and health and safety standards.
- Manage project teams and collaborate with other construction specialists.
- Document and design industrial and commercial building projects.
- Organize and manage preliminary architectural studies for new structures and alterations to existing buildings and site development.
- Apply for, organize and manage permit documents.
- Resolve complex design issues with practical and innovative solutions.
- Work with teams across business lines in remote locations and coordinate with subcontractors.
- Ensure that all buildings and constructions are carried out to specific standards, guidelines, building codes, and regulations.
- Make on-site visits to check on the project status and report to clients and employers.
- Follow architectural advancements and trends.
- Make bids on potential building projects.
- Develop initial estimates on structure costs, building time, and special requirements.
- Prepare work contracts for building subcontractors.
- Assess the impact of construction on the local environment.
- Prepare tender presentations and applications.
- Resolve problems and issues that arise during construction.
Qualifications
In most countries, only qualified architects with a licensing, certification, or registration with relevant bodies are allowed to practice legally. Representation of oneself as an architect through the use of terms and titles without approval is prohibited in most countries. Though it may vary from one location to another, architects are expected to meet certain qualifications that include education, experience, training, and licensing.
Educational requirements: A university or Bachelor’s degree in architecture is the major educational qualification for architects. However, some employers accept diplomas in architecture from polytechnics and colleges. The Bachelor of Architecture is a five-year course designed for students entering the university from secondary school or with no previous architectural training. Several courses are offered including construction methods, architectural history and theory, mathematics, professional practices, liberal arts, structures, physical sciences, and building design with emphasis on computer-aided design and drafting. Importantly, most employers prefer applicants with a master of architecture degree.
Experience: An aspiring architect can garner experience through a practicum or internship. Also, a 3-4 year proven working experience as an architect is an added advantage and desirable by employers. It is important to hone your drawing skills as much as possible; hence, practice drawing whenever you can. Any pre-entry work requirement in a design or construction environment can suffice and is highly regarded by hiring managers.
Licensure: The architect must register for and pass an examination or series of examinations to qualify for licensure. The license to practice can be obtained from the state or region in which the architect plans to provide his/her services. The process of licensure involves earning a professional degree in architecture, completing a specified period of practical training, and passing an architect registration examination.
Training: Professional training is vital in the field of architecture. Graduates need to complete a minimum of one-year paid internship before taking the architect registration examination. This training enables the individuals to adapt and get used to the field. You can complete your training by working at architectural firms and enterprises through the architecture experience program. Architecture students who underwent internships while still in school can apply some of that towards the mandated training duration.
Essential Skills
An architect needs special skills to design both the interior and exterior of a structure based on the client’s requirements. They are committed to transforming the client’s vision from a mere concept to viable and safe designs. Though it is essential to meet education, training, and licensing requirements, acquiring and honing certain personal qualities and skills to succeed as an architect is equally important. Therefore, an architect must have the following top architectural skills to be proficient in a variety of construction-related tasks;
Design skills: Aesthetics is often an integral part of architecture although safety and function are important considerations too. An architect must be conversant with different artistic movements in the field and the history of architecture as a science or art.
Numerical or mathematics skills: To be a successful architect, an individual must have a good background and foundation in mathematics. This is vital for designing safe and functional buildings. Moreover, the architect must be meticulously aware of the strengths, weaknesses, and other properties of several materials and their ability to bear weight under stress. This requires an excellent knowledge of geometry, physics, algebra, and other advanced mathematical concepts.
Visualizing skills: These skills are essential to an art and design professional. It enables the architect to get a clear picture of what the client needs. Visualizing skills also enable the architect to translate their clients’ ideas into functional designs with minimal corrections to make.
Business knowledge: As with any facet of a growing economy, being successful as an architect also requires a head for business. You will need to market your services and designs and mold your brand if you want other people to hire you for their construction projects.
Other relevant skills include knowledge of building laws and codes, computer literacy, communication skills, legal knowledge, and collaboration skills.
How to Become an Architect
If you are interested in a career as an architect, you will have to complete a significant amount of formal education. It is a highly challenging, yet deeply rewarding profession. Thus, follow these steps to become a licensed architect;
Earn or obtain a bachelor’s degree in architecture or other related fields to meet the educational requirements.
Participate in an internship program to be adequately trained for the career ahead.
Become a licensed architect by passing the Architect Registration Examination.
Apply for an architect position in a firm or private practice after passing your examination and obtaining a license to practice.
In addition to licensure, earn professional certifications to demonstrate your professional abilities and experiences when applying for jobs.
Consider a master’s degree in architecture to further your career and gain advanced knowledge and experience in the field.
Where to Work
An architect is mostly employed in engineering and architectural firms or companies. Also, private practices employ salaried architects and may eventually provide them the opportunity to become associates or partners. Similarly, central, regional, and local governments also hire architects in their planning departments.
Other employers are teaching and research institutes, construction companies, retailers and manufacturers, commercial and industrial companies, as well as self-employment as a consultant.
Architect Salary Scale
An architect makes an average of 110,341USD per annum in the United States of America. Salary may vary depending on education, level of experience, and state or region. Common benefits attached to the salary include health insurance and paid time off. Architects in the United Kingdom earn between 27,500GBP to 90,000GBP per year.
