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- Coordinate construction projects from start to finish
- Travelling to sites and meetings may mean spending time away from home
- Requires close attention to detail and good management skills
Architectural Technologists are qualified to offer design services and manage projects from inception to completion. They lead the technological design of a project; forming the link between concept, innovation and realisation.
As an architectural technologist your role would be planning and managing the technical aspects of a building project for anything from an individual home to a large scale project like a stadium. You'll specialise in the technology of architecture, focusing on the design of buildings for use and performance.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Assessing clients' needs and planning work
- Collecting and reading technical data
- Creating building plans using CAD software
- Checking construction plans for possible design problems
- Leading the design process and team
- Advising clients on environmental and legal regulations
- Managing contract bids and tenders
- Giving advice to clients and the construction team on which materials and processes to use
- Checking progress and inspecting completed building work
- Advising and reporting on the maintenance and future use of completed building work
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You could work on a construction site, in an office, at a client's business or at a client's home. When working on site you will need to wear suitable protective clothing.
You'll need
You'll need design skills, knowledge of building and construction, and to be thorough and pay attention to detail.
You can qualify as an architectural technologist by taking a degree approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. These courses may include a 12-month industry placement, and this is a good way to get practical experience and make contacts which may help when looking for work.
It's possible to qualify as a chartered architectural technologist by studying courses that are lower than degree level, like foundation degrees or higher national diplomas in related subjects.
You may also be able to start an architectural assistant degree apprenticeship with a company. Employers may also take you on as a trainee if you have 5 good GCSEs and 2 A levels, in subjects like maths, science, IT and/or technology. They may accept equivalent qualifications in engineering or construction, for example the Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Constructing the Built Environment. Level 3 courses in 3D design could also be useful. This will usually take 4 years to complete. You'll do on-the-job training and spend time studying at a university.
Gaining experience of using computer-aided design software or working in the construction industry can help you get into this career.
CAREER PROSPECTS
With experience you could become a consultant or set up your own practice. You could also work in universities or research.