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- Bring architects' construction ideas to life
- Option to set up your own practice or work as a consultant
- Requires drawing skills and the ability to pay close attention to detail
Architectural technicians work closely with architectural teams on the design process of building projects. Using design skills and knowledge of building and construction, they support architects, contractors and other parties to help manage the projects to completion.
DAY-TO-DAY DUTIES
- Preparing technical information to plan projects
- Collecting and reading technical data
- Preparing plans using computer aided design (CAD) software
- Preparing applications for approval by regulatory bodies
- Developing specifications for building work
- Giving technical advice to the project team
- Visiting sites to check on progress
DAY-TO-DAY ENVIRONMENT
You'll work closely with architectural teams on construction projects like homes, extensions, transport infrastructure or public buildings like sports stadiums.
You could work on a construction site or in an office. When you are on site, you will need to wear suitable protective clothing.
You'll need
For this role, you'll need good technical design skills, knowledge of building and construction, and excellent attention to detail.
Some employers may 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.
You could do a college course to teach you some of the skills needed for this job, such as a Level 3 Certificate in 3D Design, a Level 3 Diploma in Built Environment Design, or a T level in Design, Surveying and Planning.
You may also be able to start with a company on a digital engineering technician or built environment and design advanced apprenticeship. After completing an advanced apprenticeship you could take further training to qualify.
You can also qualify as an architectural technician by taking a foundation degree or higher national diploma approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. Subjects include architectural technology or built environment. When you've completed an approved course you can apply for associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. This allows you to complete the professional qualification stage of your training.
It can help to gain some work experience in the construction industry and knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD).
CAREER PROSPECTS
With further training, you could work towards becoming an architectural technologist.