There are five different types of architect jobs: designer, project manager, consultant, business owner, and instructor. All five job types require a combination of education and experience, and architects are generally trained in both engineering and design. They are responsible for providing the detailed instructions and drawings to create buildings.
In order to be qualified for any of these different architect jobs, most candidates must have a post-secondary training in architecture. This degree can be earned from an accredited university and is most often a four-year program. Many people include other elements and technologies into their education, which can result in a six- or seven-year program.
Designer
A designer is responsible for the artistic rendering of a building concept. The design is based on a combination of the space, client requirements, and building codes. Most architect jobs are design projects. The unique training that an architect receives allows them to combine art and science.
Project manager
The project manager on a construction job is often an architect. This type of position relies on experience in both construction and architectural design. There are many decisions that are made at the project management level. These architect jobs are best suited to candidates with at least 10 years of architecture and construction experience.
Consultant
Due to the specialized knowledge and perspective that they have, many architects become professional consultants. They frequently work for a consulting firm that specializes in a specific type of project, such as public works or building restoration. Some architects start their own consulting firms and build a roster of engineers, project managers, and architects to complete stalled projects.
Business owner
Many construction firms are owned and operated by architects. They often start small, with a residential development or custom homes. Over time, they expand the firm to build larger developments or take on larger-scale projects. The brand name home building firms that are advertised on the television are most often led by an architect and named after them.
Instructor
As an instructor, an architect can often find a position in higher education, teaching architecture design concepts to architecture technician or drawing students. He or she can also find a role as a professor or lecturer at the university level, and many architects write books on a specialty area of architecture and design. The popularity of home renovations is increasing, and many people take courses that are offered by architects about important issues to consider when building or renovating a home; some courses are even made available via the Internet. This type of architect job may help to improve the profile of the architect while increasing the knowledge available to the public.