Architect Jobs

Architects are creative people who can combine their creative flair with technical ability and a head for business. An architect job will appeal to you if you have artistic talent and an interest in the way a building takes shape, from construction methods to final costs. Technical knowledge is especially important – however beautiful a dream home looks on the drawing board, it must be sound and strong and safe for occupation.

Architects are responsible for designing buildings from suburban homes to palaces, from factories to hospitals. An important part of an architect job is liaising with the client to ensure that his or her requirements are met in the final design. Throughout the building of the project the architect will bring together and work with a design team of specialists – such as structural and heating engineers – who each play their part in constructing the finished building.

As well as the ability to interpret a client’s needs and work as part of a team, someone in an architect job needs to know about local regulations and building codes and planning laws. The profession is mostly office-based, producing the detailed drawings on which any construction process is based, accompanied by the construction specifications needed by the building team. Architects are also expected to make site visits to oversee operations and meet clients.

A degree in architecture is needed to enter the profession, followed by a two or three year internship. If an architect job appeals to you, you would be entering a well-paid profession with career openings ranging from small practices to much larger concerns. Many architects choose to open their own practices. Salaries vary according to size of practice and location, with the average salary pitched between $50,000 and $80,000 a year.