Architectural Assistant
Careers Explorer:
Working with Architects and other professionals to design buildings and deliver architectural projects.
Overview
Architectural Assistants work with – you guessed it – Architects.
Following that bombshell, you will work with other professionals such as Engineers to competently design buildings and deliver architectural projects from start to finish.
You will respond to client requirements by preparing, reviewing and refining building design through the use of various media such as 3D modelling, drawings and model making.
Under the supervision of an Architect, Senior Architect or project leader, you will be a cog in contributing to delivering projects of varying scale and type; for example, an office skyscraper, semi-detached house, café, school or bridge. Architectural Assistants often work on the design of new buildings and the redesign of existing buildings, such as a house extension or an internal refurbishment.
Top 5 Tasks
- Create detailed drawings under the supervision of an Architect
- Work closely with stakeholders as the building goes up
- Using computer design programmes to product drawings, detailed workings and specifications
- Attending construction sites and supporting the Architect or project leader in site inspections
- Being part of every phase of a construction project.
Salary
Starting salaries for an Architectural Assistant during the trainee stage usually range from £18,000 to £30,000 a year.
Newly registered Architects can earn in the region of £30,000 and £35,000 and those trained with experience can earn in the region of £35,000 and £60,000.
Senior or Chartered Architects can earn in the region of £50,000 and £100,000.
Salaries depend on location, employer and level of responsibility and salaries and career options also improve with chartered status.
Am I Suited?
- Excellent communicator
- Designer
- Analytical
- An artist
- Team player
Construction projects make a positive contribution to our communities and the way in which we live, whether that’s a new hospital, school, road or bridge.
Qualifications
Most people do a five-year university course recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) – followed by at least two years’ professional experience.
You need at least five GCSEs grade 9-4 (A to C) including maths, English and physics or chemistry, plus three A-levels (some universities like this to include a maths or science subject). Lots of universities will accept further education qualifications instead of A-levels.
You should be interested in art and design.
Progression
