Architectural technologist
Building technologist
Architectural technologists manage all stages of the technical design and planning process of building projects.
Average salary (a year)
£20000
Starter
£60000
Experienced
Typical hours (a week)
43.0 to 45.0 hours
a week
Work Hours
evenings
away from home
How to become
Explore the different ways to get into this role
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
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
student finance for fees and living costs|https://www.gov.uk/student-finance
university courses and entry requirements|https://www.ucas.com/
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
equivalent entry requirements|https://www.gov.uk/what-different-qualification-levels-mean/list-of-qualification-levels
guide to apprenticeships|https://www.gov.uk/apprenticeships-guide
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
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
Digital Skills Level
to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
What you will do
Discover the day-to-day tasks you’ll do in this role
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 & Progression
Look at progression in this role and similar opportunities
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.
Job profile data provided by The National Careers Service.