Architectural technologist

Architectural technologists work on building projects with architects, surveyors and other construction industry professionals. They decide which technology, materials and processes are needed to design buildings for production and performance. Chartered technologists are qualified to manage design and construction projects from start to finish.

Work activities

Architectural technologists can be involved in, or manage, the whole construction process, from the drawing of plans to the examination of completed building work. They are specialists in the science of architecture, building design and construction. Architectural technologists work on projects with architects, surveyors and other professionals within the construction industry. Their work can be very varied, as they might be working at all stages of the construction process. Before the start of a project, the technologist will assess the needs of their client and agree on a project brief with them. They negotiate contracts with clients and other industry professionals involved in the project. Technologists present design proposals using computer aided design (CAD) software packages, they will also, sometimes, have to draw things by hand.

Technologists may check on the progress of a project and examine completed work to check that it meets requirements. Architectural technologists are mainly office-based. However, on occasion, they will have to go on site visits. On-site, they will have to wear a hard hat and follow all health and safety regulations.

Personal qualities and skills

To do this job well, you’ll need:

• To be able to visualise objects and spaces in 3D.
• Experience of using CAD software.
• Awareness of modern building techniques and regulations.
• Some drawing skills.
• To be accurate and methodical in your work with a good eye for detail.
• Confidence, as you’ll have to make important decisions and you may be in charge of other people.
• To be good at presenting ideas and have the ability to think through and solve problems.
• An interest in how the construction industry can affect the environment.
• To be well organised, as your workload could be varied.

Pay and opportunities

Pay rates vary depending on qualifications and experience, size of firm and location. The pay rates given are approximate. Salaries for architectural technologists are in the range of £20,000 a year, rising to around £60,000 for senior professionals.

Architectural technologists tend to work a basic 43-45-hour week with occasional weekend and evening work according to the demands of the project.

Work is available in all parts of the country in:

• Central government departments.
• Construction companies.
• Education.
• Local government architectural or planning departments.
• Manufacturing companies.
• NHS.
• Private practices.
• Research practices.

Opportunities for architectural technologists occur with employers in towns and cities throughout the UK. Opportunities also occur on projects in other countries, for example, in Canada, Ireland and in the Middle East.

Self-employment opportunities occur for architectural technologists to become self-employed, and many members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) set up on their own or in partnership with architects and other professionals.

Where are vacancies advertised?

Vacancies are advertised on all the major job boards, and on the Government’s Find a Job service.

Entry routes and training

To become an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), you usually need to complete a degree course in architectural technology. These are available at various universities and colleges of higher education throughout the UK. The CIAT website has a full list of all accredited degrees. You might be able to take an HNC or HND in architectural technology.

Academic courses are followed supervised work experience in order to sit a professional practice interview and then become a full member of the CIAT (MCIAT). This may be included as part of your degree.

Alternatively, you could do a level 6 degree apprenticeship in the role of design and construction management. A degree apprenticeship comprises workplace training and study towards a suitable degree to support your professional role. You will study in college or university on day or block release. Tuition fees are paid by your employer.

Experienced technologists can move into managerial roles in a practice. Some technologists set up their own practices.

Qualifications

For entry to a degree course in architectural technology, or related subject, the usual requirement is:

• Two to three A-levels. Science and technology subjects would be useful.
• GCSEs at grades 9-4 in your A-level subjects.
• A further two to three GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English, maths and a science subject (physics preferred).

Other useful GCSEs include ICT, art and design.

Other qualifications are generally accepted instead of A-levels, for example:

• Edexcel (BTEC) level 3 National qualifications.
• International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma.

To enter a relevant HNC, HND or foundation degree, you will need:

• An A-level, with preferred subjects including maths and physics.
• A GCSE at grade 9-4 in your A-level subject.
• A further three to four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including English, maths and a science subject.

To get onto a degree apprenticeship, you will usually need:

• Two relevant A-levels.
• GCSEs in English and maths, and potentially other subjects.

Adult opportunities

Age limits: It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Relevant qualifications gained in the construction industry and knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) are useful. If you lack traditional academic qualifications but have several years’ experience in the building or construction industries, you can still apply to enter a course approved by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT). Being a professionally qualified Architectural Technician (TCIAT), can provide a route to qualification as a Chartered Architectural Technologist (MCIAT).

If you don’t have the qualifications needed to enter your chosen degree or HND course, a college or university Access course could be the way in.  These courses are designed for people who have not followed the usual routes into higher education. No formal qualifications are usually needed, but you should check this with individual colleges.

Related careers

• Architect
• Architectural technician
• Civil engineer
• Structural engineer
• Surveyor