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Architects are responsible for designing the world around us. They are the creative thinkers who use math and science to design and build the structures we see and live in every day. Architect jobs also pay very well and are expected to see growth in the coming years.
Here’s the background on architect jobs
Building Your New Career as an Architect
Though you may not think military service is a pathway to becoming an architect, many of the basic skill sets needed for that career are actually comparable. To be a successful architect, you’ll need to have an eye for detail, but also the ability to think “big picture.” And, crucially, you were definitely need a knack for collaborating with teams to get the job done.
But what, specifically, do architects do? The simplest way to put it: they are the ones who design the buildings we live and work in. So as you can imagine, this requires input and consultation with numerous designers and engineers, as well. From lighting experts and electricians, to interior designers and landscapers, an architect must be able to sit down and review the minutia of their plans with different types of people, somehow managing to come to a consensus and agreement prior to construction. Because unlike many projects, when it comes to erecting a building, once work gets underway it is hard to go back if someone wants to change something.
A Day on the Job of an Architect
In the end, it’s the architect who is responsible for transforming a mere “idea” into something which can be made into a tangible reality. So as they work through the design process, they must be thinking in mathematical and creative terms, asking and solving questions related to the purpose of the building, where it will be built and many other variables which will impact the the structure.
Every element must be considered in advance and planned meticulously. Imagine creating an incredible design and seeing it through to completion as the building is built…upon a soft foundation that causes the building to sink an inch or two every year! Such was the case with the 58-story Millennium Tower in San Francisco, which has already sunk 17 inches in ten years (causes it to scarily lean 14 inches, too!).
Apart from the actual drawing up of plans and meeting with those other designers and engineers, the architect also needs to talk with the clients. Using presentations which can convey their vision, they must educate, persuade, and cajole those who are footing the bill. Cost estimates and construction deadlines are also given during these meetings, thus there’s an element of not only professional marketing but also a need to stay well-composed in the face of potentially frustrated business persons.
After all, investors like to hear things will cost less and with no delays. The architects job, though, entails conveying the realities of the project. Things go over budget, there are inevitable obstacles which screw up timetables. The architect should be prepared to answer questions and deflect unrealistic pushback by persons who are not always educated about the construction process.
In other words, the architect sometimes has to be the bearer of bad news to the people who hired him or her for a multi-million dollar project! Talk about work stress! But veterans are quite accustomed to such situations and are able to keep their cool in the crucible.
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Educational Requirements to Become an Architect
High school preparatory courses in art, geometry, calculus, and physics are all helpful to lay the foundation for a future architect. But in most states, prior to obtaining a license, a person needs to complete an architecture degree to start their career, and the degree-granting institution must be accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board.
In a few states, the education requirement isn’t required if the candidate has enough years (8 to 13) of supervised, documented internship experience, but even then a bachelor’s degree is still helpful. And naturally a master’s would build upon the construction concepts learned as an undergrad. Putting in that extra two to three years should pay off in the long run, by enabling you to receive better job offers since you’ll have a more advanced understanding of computer-aided drafting, various engineering concepts and training on the most up-to-date industry tech.
Licensure
Whether you go for the master’s degree or not, you’ll be required to complete a paid internship under a licensed architect. Expect to put in three years for this, after which you can become certified in your state of operation once you pass your Architect Registration Examination. The ARE 5.0 exam covers hundreds of questions across multiple question types (it isn’t just multiple choice). The areas are:
- Practice Management
- Project Management
- Programming & Analysis
- Project Planning & Design
- Project Development & Documentation
- Construction & Evaluation
Because technologies and methods change, many states do require that architects maintain their currency through professional development and continuing education coursework. Thus, a love of learning is one final recommended trait for all those who endeavor to pursue this career option, and again, former service members are very well acquainted with such requirements, since promotion to higher ranks is often contingent upon completion of Professional Military Education.
Job Outlook
Median pay for architects is around $78,500 per year, or $37.72 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Though growth is pegged at 4%, which is a bit under the average, it is nonetheless growth. Demand is always steady for architects, because the population never goes down and thus the need for more and more buildings isn’t likely to change. Meanwhile many structures age out and are torn down, to make way for new ones. And who is going to design all those? You, perhaps!
Companies Hiring for Architect Jobs
AECOM: AECOM is built to deliver a better world. We design, build, finance and operate infrastructure assets for governments, businesses and organizations in more than 150 countries.
VIEW ARCHITECT JOBS WITH AECOM
DynCorp: DynCorp International is a leading global services provider offering unique, tailored solutions for an ever-changing world.
VIEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH DYNCORP
DynCorp: DynCorp International is a leading global services provider offering unique, tailored solutions for an ever-changing world.
VIEW OPPORTUNITIES WITH DYNCORP
*Companies in this article are paying advertisers
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