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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)

£25,000 Starter

to

£50,000 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 Architectural technologist

You can get into this job through:

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

University

You can do a degree or postgraduate course like architectural technology or architectural design and technology, accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).

Employers may also accept a foundation degree, or higher national certificate or diploma in a similar subject.

If you choose the non-degree route, you'll need to demonstrate you have the right skills and knowledge, if you want to become a member of CIAT at a later stage.

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 after completing your studies.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study

More Information

Apprenticeship

You could apply for an apprenticeship, which would give you some of the relevant skills and knowledge needed for this job. It could also act as a stepping stone onto further training to qualify.

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) approves the following:

  • Digital Engineering Technician Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeship
  • Construction Design and Build Technician Level 4 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Design and Construction Management Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

These apprenticeships take between 3 and 4 years to complete, and are a mix of training on the job and off-site study.

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

More Information

Career tips

Experience in computer-aided design or working in the construction industry could 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.

Further information

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

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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 have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

What you’ll do

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

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As an architectural technologist, you could:

  • work with clients to turn architectural ideas into design plans
  • gather and analyse technical data
  • create building plans using CAD software
  • select construction materials that will fulfil the design brief
  • advise clients on environmental and legal regulations
  • manage projects, contract bids and tenders
  • track progress and inspect 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

With qualifications and experience, you could take steps to qualify as a Chartered Architectural Technologist, which recognises your skills and expertise.

You might also register to specialise in heritage conservation or environmental work.

You could move into management, work as a consultant or set up your own practice. Research and teaching in higher education could be another option.

Current opportunities

Find apprenticeships, courses and jobs available near you.

Current opportunities

Apprenticeships In England

Apprentice Design & Construction Information Management Technician

  • Wage: £22,308 a year Annually
  • Location: Temple Quay, Bristol

Design, Construction and Management HNC/HND Apprenticeship

  • Wage: £22,000 a year Annually
  • Location: Quarryfield Road, Gateshead, Tyne And Wear

Courses In England

HNC Architectural Technology

  • Provider: NEW COLLEGE DURHAM
  • Start date: 08 September 2025
  • Location: Durham

HTQ Architectural Technology Yr 1

  • Provider: BURTON AND SOUTH DERBYSHIRE COLLEGE
  • Start date: 16 September 2025
  • Location: Swadlincote

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