Architectural technologist

Entry Requirements:

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:

• 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

Entry requirements:

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:

• 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.

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.

Required Skills:

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

Skills:

• 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 be flexible and open to change
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• knowledge of English language
• excellent verbal communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• 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 technologists manage all stages of the technical design and planning process of building projects.

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

Location : You could work on a construction site, in an office, at a client's business or at a client's home.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £60,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

43 - 45 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings away from home

Career Path:

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.