Architectural technician

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

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

University

You can take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a subject like:

• architectural design and technology
• construction and the built environment
• architectural technology

Entry requirements:

• 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

College

You could do a college course, which could teach you some of the skills you'll need in this job. You might then go on to study for a higher national certificate or diploma, or apply for an apprenticeship.

Courses include:

• 3D computer-aided design
• built environment design
• construction and the built environment
• T level in Design, Surveying, and Planning for Construction

Entry requirements:

Apprenticeship

You could apply for a place on one of the following apprenticeships:

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

These take around 3 years to complete and include a mix of training on the job and off-site study.

Entry requirements:

• 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

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. Equivalent qualifications may be accepted.

They would then support you through training to gain your technician qualifications.

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Skills:

• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of building and construction
• thinking and reasoning skills
• knowledge of engineering science and technology
• maths skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• the ability to work well with others
• knowledge of English language
• the ability to use your initiative
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• to be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
• leadership skills
• the ability to work well with your hands
• concentration skills

What you'll do:

Architectural technicians work closely with architectural teams to create blueprints and technical plans on building projects.

As an architectural technician, you would:

• organise technical data collected from the project team
• develop specifications for building work
• create construction plans using computer-aided design (CAD) software
• prepare feasibility studies, and applications for approval by regulatory bodies
• give technical advice to the project team
• visit sites to check on progress

Location : You could work on a construction site or in an office.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

With experience, you could become a senior technician and lead a team, or continue your studies, while working, to qualify as an architectural technologist or become an architect .