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Do you have a creative gift that you would like to channel into building design? Would you like to see your design concepts become functional spaces for others to work, eat, sleep and play in? If so, then a career in architecture might be just what you are looking for. Architects work with clients to plan out new buildings using a combination of creative and technical skills.

what do architect jobs entail?

As an architect, you are involved in all aspects of building projects, from the design phase through to construction. You initially meet with the client to discuss what needs to be built, and from there create a design that helps visualize that concept. From there, you document this concept, test the design using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs, and revise it if necessary. You will also create construction documents used by contractors to build the structure while overseeing the project through site visits and meetings until completion.

what is a typical work schedule for architects

Your typical day as an architect may begin with meeting clients and discussing ideas for a building project. If successful, you win a contract to design the building for them. You create detailed technical drawings for the building, including specifications. During documentation, you estimate the costs for the project and make any adjustments to the design if necessary. You could also meet with consultants for further advice. Once documentation is complete, you call for tenders from building contractors. During construction, you will often conduct site visits and sometimes need to attend public hearings depending on the size and nature of the project.

what are the pros of architect jobs?

• Varied and creative work: While the role of an architect is often a demanding one, it can also be very exciting. No single project is the same, and each one allows you to use your creative talents to design something unique. In addition, as you gain experience in your role, you will become more involved with design work compared to the technical side of architecture.
• Less complex than it appears: Architecture might seem like a complex and math-heavy career. Yet while training courses do need to focus on mathematics, in practice, most architects use math sparingly in their work. Complex problems are usually dealt with by engineers and other project specialists. All you really need is a creative mind, excellent drawing skills and sound communication skills to succeed as an architect.
• Rewarding and respected career: The career of an architect is much respected, and those who are passionate about their work find that each project has its own reward. In addition, as you gain experience, you will be able to command a more lucrative fee to match the work.

what are the cons of architect jobs?

• Takes a lot of qualifications: Becoming an architect is a long, intense and expensive process. You need about five years in a school of architecture to earn a Bachelor of Architecture. You also need an additional two to four years for a master's degree. The coursework itself is often very complex, focusing on geometry, algebra and trigonometry as well as physical sciences. You will need to complete a few years in an internship program as well as pass the Examination for Architects in Canada (ExAC). Therefore, you need to be committed and passionate to stay the course of becoming a registered architect.
• Demanding work: While being an architect may not be highly complex, it can be very challenging and demanding. There are often many issues to deal with, and you will probably spend twice as much time designing compared to constructing the building. You need to be correct right down to the most minute detail to avoid any problems occurring during construction. This is why many architects have hefty insurance policies to protect themselves should a project fail to live up to the client's expectations.
• Demand subject to the economy: The demand for architects is largely dependent on the health of the economy. If the economy is growing, then you will find there is more demand for new building projects as well as for architects. If the economy is in a downturn, then the demand for construction projects diminishes, as do opportunities for architecture work. With this in mind, it is recommended that you have a backup plan, such as alternative income streams.

what are common architect interview questions?

Depending on which company you plan to work for, some common interview questions you may be asked are:

• What are you passionate about? This is a chance to assert your personality and prove to the company that your values align with theirs. Try to be as authentic as possible with your answers while leaving behind a favourable impression that will be remembered.
• How does this job fit into your career plan? This gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your motivations, in particular, what you hope to achieve as an architect. Make every effort to be straightforward with your answers and show how this job fits with your overall plan.
• When did you overcome a significant challenge? This allows you to demonstrate how you used your skills and abilities in a previous role. Talk about the situation, what actions you took based on your skills, and what the outcome was.

architect resume and cover letter requirements

Your typical resume should include the following:

• Your full name and contact information such as a phone number or personal email.
• A professional summary that briefly lists your skills and work history.
• List your work experience in reverse chronological order with your accomplishments for each role.
• Any awards you have won that might set you apart from other candidates.
• Your education, in particular post-secondary education.
• Any community involvement or volunteer work.
• Hard skills related to your field of expertise.

When writing your cover letter, make sure to address it directly to the hiring manager. Explain why you want the job in the intro, your qualifications in the body, and your invitation for further contact as a conclusion. Keep it brief, to the point, and only a single page.

what is the job outlook for architects?

The job outlook for architects in Canada is largely dependent on the economy. This not only includes the national economy but the local economy as well. As such, if there are few openings for architect roles in your residential area, you may consider moving to an area with a better economy. Alternatively, you could wait to see if the economy improves in your area if you have the resources to get by in the meantime. That said, there will always be a need for architects when the economy is growing, so keep an eye on the current market.

what are the different types of architect jobs?

• Draftsperson: This role interprets the design notes and concepts made by an architect and turns them into drawings and project plans. You will need sound skills in manual drawing plus CAD, and potentially even 3D modelling.
• Revit Technician: As a Revit Technician, you will need to use Autodesk Revit to create technical drawings and 3D models for assigned projects. This role requires you to have excellent artistic and technical skills, plus experience with Revit software.
• Building Information Modelling (BIM) Manager/Coordinator: Oversees the implementation and maintenance of architectural software and assets. In this role, you need to manage the software used, enforce standards within the company, and curate the software's library of content.
• Design Architect: This role is similar to a traditional architect, except you will focus more on design and aesthetics rather than construction. This is a great role if you are more interested in the creative and innovative side of architecture.
• Project Architect: This is often a senior position in an architecture company. As a project architect, you meet with clients, stakeholders and team leaders to provide technical advice on the project. This role will suit you if you are more focused on the technical side of architecture.
• Urban Designer: This role focuses on the shape of structures within the urban environment. In this role, you are expected to research how residents will live in the buildings being created. You need to consult with the community and find out how to benefit them and enhance their lives.
• Landscape Architect: As a landscape architect, you will work mostly in outdoor environments. This includes gardens, parks, and other public spaces, including shopping centres. In this role, you can help improve the local identity and the quality of life of residents.

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what is the average salary for an architect?

The average salary for an architect in Canada is around $97,225 per year. If you are starting out in an entry-level position, the average amount earned is $78,086 per year. With experience, however, you could receive as much as $140,000 per year. How much you can earn depends not only on your skills and experience but also the demand for architects in your area. If there is sufficient demand, then you could command a higher price, whereas in times of recession, jobs may be scarce and the pay lower.

average architect salaries in canada

• annual: $97,225
• monthly: $8,102
• weekly: $1,870
• hourly: $49.86

Top paying areas for architects in Canada include: Alberta, Ontario and Saskatchewan.

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what are the duties and responsibilities of architects?

• Drawing diagrams that show how spaces are linked to activities, as well as detailed working drawings that show every minute detail of the building. These designs and drawings are used by contractors and subcontractors to work out a budget and later form the basis for the building plan.
• Using designs and drawings to create 3D models that can be used to create scale models and animations to help clients visualize the project.
• Writing business letters and documenting all aspects of the project, including charts, tables and building specifications.
• Helping prepare articles for professional journals and magazines.
• Making presentations to clients that outline concepts, discuss options and offer solutions to any issues that may arise.
• Appearing before public bodies to provide expert testimony.
• Calculating budgets for the project, as well as working out structural analysis, heat loads, electrical distribution and traffic flow.
• Signing off contracts and certificates when the project has been completed to full satisfaction.
• Managing the business or team as well as the entire project from conception to completion and dealing with any issues that occur during the project.

where do architects typically work?

The role of an architect can take you to many locations depending on the work you are currently engaged in. If you are in the process of drawing or designing, you will most likely work in an office. On other occasions, you need to meet up with clients or officials in their workplaces, plus you need to conduct site visits. In some cases, you will be able to work in your own office or even your own home if you are a freelancer or contractor. Generally, you work normal full-time hours, but you may need to work weekends or overtime for certain projects.

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what skills and competencies do architects need?

In order to succeed as an architect, you will need the following skills:

• The ability to understand the design process and devise solutions that satisfy your clients.
• Excellent artistic skills in order to create detailed drawings based on your design ideas.
• A sound understanding of mathematics and physics in relation to the construction process.
• High computer literacy, in particular when it comes to CAD and BIM software.
• Knowledge of current industry laws and codes that relate to buildings.
• The ability to manage all parts of a project and ensure they are all working well together.
• Having the business skills to conduct market research, analyze data and write business plans.
• Understanding sustainability and ways to make buildings more energy-efficient.
• The ability to think critically as well as explore alternative scenarios.
• Interpersonal skills that allow you to work well with both clients and teams.
• The ability to communicate your ideas visually, verbally, and through writing.
• Self-discipline and self-motivation, including good time management, recordkeeping skills, and the ability to maintain professional standards.
• Creative thinking that allows you to think outside the box.
• The flexibility to adjust to changing circumstances.
• The ability to take the initiative when issues arise.

what training and certifications do architects need?

In order to legally work as an architect in Canada, you need to have a licence. This licence proves that you have undergone all necessary training to maintain the high standards of the practice. 

• One way to qualify is by applying to a School of Architecture and completing a bachelor's or master's degree in architecture. This needs to be done under a university program approved by the Canadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB). An alternative way to qualify is through an apprenticeship offered through the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) Syllabus program.
• Once you have completed the necessary training, you need to gain experience through the Internship in Architecture Program. Each province in Canada offers this program through the relevant associations located there. If you are accepted into the program, you will be mentored by a licensed architect who guides you through the work. This internship usually lasts about three years.
• The final step you need to take in order to qualify for an architect's licence is to pass the Examination for Architects in Canada (ExAC). This exam is often computerized and will licence you at a provincial or territorial level. Be aware that some provinces and territories may require additional requirements before a licence can be granted.

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