Architectural Technician/ Technologist
What is the work like?
Architectural technicians and architectural technologists use their technological knowledge to make sure building designs are practical in real life. They work on domestic, commercial and industrial projects.
Architectural technicians
As an architectural technician you would support architectural technologists, architects and other professionals in the construction industry.
Your work would include:
- collecting, organising and investigating technical information for use during project development
- preparing drawings
- creating plans
- developing specifications for construction work
- using computer aided design (CAD) as well as traditional drawing methods.
Architectural technologists
As an architectural technologist you would have a broader range of skills than a technician, and would be able to set up in practice on your own. You could negotiate the construction project and manage the whole process from conception to completion.
Your work could include:
- assessing clients' needs
- collecting and analysing technical data
- advising on legal requirements
- getting tenders and negotiating contracts
- advising on materials
- carrying out land and building surveys
- making drawings for use on site
- checking progress and inspecting completed building work.
You could also work with clients after construction, getting feedback and appraising the performance of buildings.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You can either study for an academic qualification before starting work, or follow a work-based route.
Studying before starting work
Recommended qualifications are:
- architectural technicians – BTEC HNC/HND or foundation degree in Architectural Design or Architectural Technology
- architectural technologists – BTEC HND or degree that is approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).
Courses are available full- and part-time. Degree courses last for three or four years. Four-year courses usually include a year's industry experience, which is a good way for you to gain practical experience and make contacts.
See the CIAT website for details of approved courses. You should check with colleges and universities for entry requirements.
When you have successfully completed an appropriate course you can apply for Associate membership of the CIAT. This means you can apply for relevant work and complete the professional qualification stage of your training – see Further Training section for details.
Work-based routes
You may be able to get into this area through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk.
Some employers will take you on if you have around four GCSEs (A-C) and two A levels or a BTEC National Certificate/Diploma. Relevant subjects include science, technology, building services engineering and construction.
What further training and development can I do?
When you have completed a recognised academic qualification you will be able to apply for Associate membership of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT).
Once you are in employment you can work towards the following professional qualifications:
- Technician membership of the CIAT
- Chartered (MCIAT) membership of the CIAT.
You will need to complete an assessment against the CIAT’s professional standards (known as a Professional and Occupational Performance (POP) Record.
As an architectural technician your POP Record is likely to take between one and two years. If you are successful you will be able to use the title TCIAT (unless you are self-employed). You can then develop your skills and progress to qualifying as a Chartered Architectural Technologist.
Your assessment to become a Chartered Architectural Technologist would usually take three years, after which you would have a Professional Practice Interview. If you are successful in this you will have the right to use the title MCIAT.
Once you are qualified you will need to keep your knowledge and skills up to date through continuing professional development (CPD). This could be by private study and research as well as attending seminars and short courses.
Where can I go for more information?
397 City RoadLondon
EC1V 1NH
Tel: 020 7278 2206
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
Alternatively, you can visit our website at: www.direct.gov.uk/careersadvice
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries can be between £15,000 and around £18,500 a year.
- With experience, this could rise to between £26,000 and £40,000.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would usually work 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, although you may sometimes have to work extra hours to meet deadlines.
You would be mainly office-based, but would spend some time visiting clients and construction sites, which could involve working outdoors in all weathers. Travelling to sites and meetings may mean spending time away from home.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- drawing skills
- attention to detail
- the ability to visualise objects in three dimensions
- a practical and methodical approach
- good analytical skills
- the ability to interpret designs and technical drawings
- IT skills
- maths skills for technical and financial calculations
- good spoken and written communication skills
- the ability to work effectively in a team
- management skills for leading projects.
What opportunities are there?
You will find most jobs with organisations like private architectural practices, housing associations, property developers and building and construction companies. See the CIAT website for job vacancies and links to recruitment agencies.
As an architectural technologist with experience and chartered status you could set up your own practice. You could also work as a consultant, and there are some opportunities to work in universities and carry out research.
You may find the following links useful for job vacancies and further reading (links open in new window):
RIBA Appointments
Architects' Journal
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (jobs page)
List of recruitment agencies (CIAT website)
We do not accept responsibility for the content of external sites.
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