Overview
What is an Architectural Technologist?
Architectural Technologists are the skilled experts that turn creative designs into practical and sustainable realities. These built environment professionals are specialists in the technology of construction, selecting the best materials and processes for the project, identifying potential design issues ahead of construction and analysing architectural plans and drawings.
People who work in architectural technology may be referred to as Architectural Technicians. There are also specialisms within the industry with adjacent titles, such as Construction Site Technician, BIM Technician and Design and Build Co-ordinator.
What is the difference between Architects and Architectural Technologists?
The role of Architects and Architectural Technicians are not the same. Whereas Architects are more focused on the aesthetics and design of the building, Technicians are more concerned with the technology and science of how the building will be created. In essence, they take the Architect’s design and bring it to life.
While the field is ultimately founded in science and a technical approach to construction, architectural technology is still a creative avenue.
How much do Architectural Technologists earn?
The salary of an Architectural Technologist is usually between £20,000 – £60,000
Skills
What’s required for the role?
- Creativity
- Art and design skills
- Client relations
- Digital skills
- Presentation skills
- An analytical mind
- Problem solving
- Teamwork and leadership
- Strong planning and organisational skills
- An eye for detail
- Maths and IT skills
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Project management
- Knowledge of building regulations
- The ability to work under pressure
- Technical knowledge of building materials
Details
What does an Architectural Technologist do?
In their day-to-day role, a technician may have to:
What is the work environment like?
While Technicians will predominantly work in an office environment, there will be opportunities to work on site, as well as meet with clients and other professionals. During site visits, professionals will spend a lot of their time outside assessing proposed locations, in all weather conditions.
Due to their crucial role in the early stages of the building lifecycle, technicians will often work alongside other professionals in the built environment, such as Urban Planners, Construction Managers and building control specialists.
Opportunities
Is architectural technology a good career?
Architecture is a profession undergoing digital transformation, with new innovations and technological advancements helping to modernise the field. Technicians may have the opportunity to use exciting technology like Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR and VR) and digital twins in their role, making this one of the most innovative and digital fields in the sector. This makes it an appealing field for those with an interest in art and design that enjoy working visually, along with people who are comfortable learning and utilising new technology.
Working as a Technician also requires professionals to be comfortable working with others, particularly clients and project stakeholders. A notably diverse field, no two days are the same in the life of an architectural professional, and with a mix of people-facing and technical responsibilities, architectural technology can be a very broad and rewarding career to work in.
Architectural design is also high in demand but short on talent, meaning there are plenty of opportunities for employment and strong levels of job security in the architecture and construction industry. A recent UCEM survey of 300 built environment professionals found that 95% of architectural professionals feel that their industry is desperately short on talent.
There are also a variety of different pathways and progression opportunities professionals can take within architectural technology. Along with working across residential commercial and restoration areas of architecture, there are also various specialisms within the architectural practice, including:
- BIM Technician
- Design and Build Co-ordinator
- Design Specialist
- Design Manager
Become an architecture technologist
Who can become an architecture technologist?
Anyone with an interest and desire to work in architectural design and technology can launch a successful career in the field and become a professional technologist. At UCEM, students from across the world have undertaken their studies and successfully entered industries like architectural technology in the built environment. Find out about their experiences below:
- From IT consultant to a real estate and sustainability thought leader – a student success story with Esha Bhasin MRICS
- Everyone can contribute to global change: a Q&A with UCEM Student Officer for Sustainability Kian Bruney
How to get into architectural technology
You don’t need professional or academic qualifications to begin a career in architectural technology, but it can be beneficial for advancement. Technicians that are chartered will have completed a relevant degree and be able to demonstrate their experience.
Degrees that are recognised and accredited by professional bodies like the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) can help you stand out to potential employers. Aside from traditional degrees, another option is to undertake an apprenticeship, which can give you practical work experience alongside relevant qualifications.
Along with obtaining degrees, online CPD courses in relevant subjects can strengthen your employment credentials, such as:
