what is it like to work as an architectural technologist?
The role of an architectural technologist allows you to combine your interest in technology with building design. As a result of your work, functional building plans are created, which incorporate architectural aesthetics and modern technological elements. By applying your technical expertise, you support construction projects from planning through to completion.
In addition to planning construction projects, they also take part in their execution. They are the ones who select the most suitable technology, materials and processes to ensure the building is completed optimally. They support other professionals in the construction industry and ensure that the project meets the client's requirements and the planned functionality. Whether it's a residential building or a huge sports stadium, they monitor every detail of the construction to ensure the right materials and best practices are used.
what does an architectural technologist do?
The architectural technologist supervises the project from start to finish. Once the building is in use, they carry out an assessment and collect feedback from users about the building’s functionality and any necessary maintenance.
Building technicians work for companies involved in construction or engineering projects, as well as for private and government organisations that provide infrastructure projects or architectural consultancy. Some architectural technologists work on a project basis or independently as consultants.
check out our latest construction job vacancies?
architectural technologist jobs
average salary of an architectural technologist.
With our salary calculator, you can find out the pay ranges for both entry-level and experienced architectural technologists. Entry-level positions usually offer lower salaries, as they require minimal work experience and transferable skills. As your experience grows and you gain further qualifications, you’ll be able to successfully apply for positions offering higher pay.
Health insurance and transport allowance are often included as part of the compensation package, along with other benefits such as extra paid leave or bonuses for successful project completions.
Would you like to know how much a architectural technologist earns? check our salary calculator!
salary calculatorhow can you earn more as an architectural technologist?
The salary of an architectural technologist depends on several factors. For example, working for large companies offers different pay compared to smaller firms. Large companies usually handle more complex projects, which require additional qualifications. Accordingly, the compensation package also reflects the complexity of the projects. Companies operating in the private sector generally pay better than government organisations.
The location of your workplace also determines your earning potential. For example, companies in large cities often offer higher salaries than those in small towns, as pay depends on the cost of living and the demand for services. In large cities, the cost of living is higher and there is greater demand for architectural technicians than in small towns.
types of architectural technologist roles.
An architectural technologist may specialise in a particular area depending on the types of projects.
-
Residential architectural technologist: As an architectural technologist working on residential building projects, you collaborate with property owners and architects to prepare the technical plans for bespoke homes. You are responsible for defining the spatial and functional requirements for the design, deciding on the necessary materials and the project schedule.
-
Commercial architectural technologist: Prepares plans for large-scale projects, manufacturing plants or government projects. May work on buildings such as museums, hotels or libraries.
- Reconstruction architectural technologist: You take part in restoring historic buildings and maintaining old properties. Your role is to assist architects in preserving historic buildings and ensuring structural integrity.
working as an architectural technologist.
Working as an architectural technologist offers exciting career opportunities. Learn about the daily tasks and work environment of architectural technicians.
-
responsibilities of an architectural technologist
The responsibilities of an architectural technologist are as follows.
-
Planning and implementation: Prepares building plans and usage plans based on the architect's designs, in order to develop workable guidelines for a project. Computer solutions may also be used to incorporate technical details into existing plans.
-
Project management: Authorised to manage a construction project from start to finish. May work under the supervision of an engineer, but can also directly oversee the processes.
-
Selecting the right materials: With their expertise, they choose the appropriate materials for a project. For example, when constructing sustainable buildings, they can identify the best sustainable materials. Sometimes, they need to use technological tools to calculate the quantity of materials required for the project.
-
Site assessment and inspection: Before a construction project begins, construction technicians assess the proposed site to determine its suitability. Their task is to use measuring instruments to evaluate the site to ensure it is safe for the construction project. When construction work starts, they may also carry out inspections on site to assess progress and check that the construction team is following the plans.
- Facilitating legal processes and risk analysis: Ensures the necessary permits and contracts for construction projects. During planning, building regulations and legal rules must also be applied. Project risk assessment must be carried out, and potential hazards identified.
-
-
work environment
As an architectural technologist, your work is primarily office-based, as you need to develop design tasks using computer equipment. Your job also involves meeting clients to clarify their requirements before preparing the final plans. During site inspections, you spend most of the day outdoors, studying the proposed location and, based on your findings, working out ways to improve the plans. Once construction begins, you must regularly visit the site to oversee the progress of the building. Outdoor work must be carried out in all weather conditions, and you are also required to wear a helmet and safety boots on construction sites.
-
who does an architectural technologist work with?
Depending on the project, your colleagues may include architects, CAD designers and site engineers. You may work closely with construction and building experts, as well as other professionals such as surveyors, designers and design managers.
-
working hours schedule
An architectural technologist works the usual office hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 17:00. They work full time, 40 hours a week, but sometimes also at weekends or in the evenings. Most projects have deadlines, and it can happen that extra hours are needed as deadlines approach. Most architectural technologist positions are full-time roles, with part-time positions being rare. Occasionally, project-based and freelance opportunities are also available. The job also involves travel when visiting clients or construction sites.
-
development opportunities
Architectural technologists have promising career prospects, with numerous opportunities for advancement. With further university education, you could even become an architect, or with the right professional experience, move into a leadership position in the construction sector, such as project manager or construction manager. With extensive experience, you could continue as a consultant, or become a lecturer at universities and colleges.
-
why look for an architectural technologist job through randstad?
There can be several advantages to looking for an architectural technologist job with the help of a Randstad consultant.
-
an adviser with a strong understanding of the construction sector in the labour market supports you during the selection process
-
you’ll find a wide range of job opportunities on our website
- whether you're looking for a permanent or temporary job, we'll help you find the position that suits you best
-
required studies and skills.
studies.
To work as an architectural technologist, it is also necessary to acquire professional knowledge. It is advisable to choose one of the following courses to get started.
-
vocational training
The architectural technologist qualification can be obtained during secondary school studies, but it can also be completed as a vocational training after graduation. With this qualification, you can start working in this role in an entry-level position.
-
university education
A university degree may also be required for higher-level positions. Architectural training can provide a suitable professional foundation for this.
skills.
The following skills are required for an architectural technologist to carry out their work.
-
communication skills
He works as part of an architectural team, alongside various professionals who contribute to construction projects. It is important that he communicates his ideas clearly and supports team members with their tasks.
-
problem-solving skills
Good problem-solving skills are needed to deal with issues that arise during construction. When the building work does not match the plans, you cannot deliver your best without creative problem-solving skills.
-
technological mindset
As the person responsible for architectural design technology, you need technical knowledge to develop technical plans. openness to technology helps you use architectural software and other tools to create the best designs.
-
social skills
During projects, they work together with various construction workers, ensuring that everyone is working towards the same goal. Good communication and social skills are needed to listen to everyone's ideas and motivate the team to complete the project.
frequently asked questions.
We have collected the most frequently asked questions about the construction technician role:
-
what is the difference between an architect and an architectural technologist?
The architect focuses on the spatial and aesthetic beauty of a building during the design process. The architectural technologist concentrates on the technical aspects that improve the building’s functionality.
-
what does an architectural technologist do?
The architectural technologist prepares the technical specifications of the building. In addition, they provide detailed guidelines regarding the techniques and materials used during construction and oversee the project from planning to completion.
-
can an architectural technologist design a house?
Although architectural technologists prepare architectural plans and specifications, designing a home requires an architect.
-
is there demand for architectural technologists?
Architectural technologists are in high demand due to their technical design expertise. The widespread use of CAD systems also makes them highly sought after.
-
what qualifications are required for an architectural technologist?
With a secondary-level architectural technologist qualification, you can already start your career, but for higher positions, a university degree may be required.
-
how can I apply for an architectural technologist job?
Applying for an architectural technologist job is easy: create your Randstad profile and browse our job offers near you. Once logged in, apply for the job opportunity you like with just one click through our website.