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Architectural technologist

Alternative titles for this job include Building technologist

Architectural technologists manage all stages of the technical design and planning process of building projects.

Average salary (a year)

£20,000 Starter

to

£60,000 Experienced

Typical hours (a week)

43 to 45 a week

You could work

evenings away from home

How to become

Explore the different ways to get into this role.

How to become an architectural technologist

You can get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role

University

You can improve your job prospects by taking an HNC, foundation degree, degree or master's qualification approved or accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

Some courses may include a 12-month industry placement. This is a good way to get practical experience and make contacts, which may help when looking for work.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could take an apprenticeship approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). This will give you some of the relevant skills and knowledge to work towards this role. Apprenticeships include:

  • Digital engineering technician advanced apprenticeship
  • Construction design and build technician higher apprenticeship
  • Design and construction management technician degree apprenticeship

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

Work

Employers may take you on as a trainee if you have 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and 2 A levels, in subjects like maths, science, IT and technology.

They may accept equivalent qualifications in engineering or construction, for example the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Construction and the Built Environment. Level 3 courses in 3D design could also be useful.

More Information

Career tips

Any experience you have using computer-aided design or working in the construction industry can help you get into this career.

Professional and industry bodies

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.

Further information

You'll find more details about becoming an architectural technologist through the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

What it takes

Find out what skills you’ll use in this role.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • design skills and knowledge
  • knowledge of building and construction
  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • knowledge of engineering science and technology
  • maths skills
  • the ability to work well with others
  • the ability to use your initiative
  • ambition and a desire to succeed
  • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

What you’ll do

Discover the day to day tasks you’ll do in this role.

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

You could:

  • assess clients' needs and plan work
  • collect and read technical data
  • create building plans using CAD software
  • check construction plans for possible design problems
  • lead the design process and team
  • advise clients on environmental and legal regulations
  • manage contract bids and tenders
  • advise clients on the construction team, building materials and processes to use
  • check progress and inspect completed building work
  • advise and report on the maintenance and future use of completed building work

Working environment

You could work on a construction site, in an office, at a client's business or at a client's home.

Career path and progression

Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities.

Career path and progression

Once you have at least 2 years' work experience, you can work towards Chartered Membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists.

With experience you could move into management, work as a consultant or set up your own practice. You could also work in universities or research.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Digital Construction Apprentice

  • Wage: £20,000.00 Annually
  • Location: 10 Winchester Road, Basingstoke

Apprentice Planner

  • Wage: £10,982.40 to £21,673.60 Annually
  • Location: Leeds
Find apprenticeships near you

Courses In England

HNC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Architectural Technology for England (2023)- RQF

  • Provider: HEART OF YORKSHIRE EDUCATION GROUP
  • Start date: 01 September 2024
  • Location: Castleford
Find courses near you

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