Architectural technician
Turn designs into technical reality! You'll collect and organise technical information, producing detailed drawings and plans essential for building projects.
About the job
What it's like
Do you have a sharp eye for detail and a strong interest in the technical aspects of design, helping turn architects’ ideas into real buildings?
As an architectural technician, you’ll focus on the technical aspects of building design – creating detailed drawings and specifications.
Working alongside architects, surveyors and other construction professionals, you'll play a key role in the development of new buildings. These projects can range from small home extensions to massive sports stadiums. Your work will aim to meet your client's exact needs.
Your tasks might include:
organising the technical information needed
assisting architects and clients in developing the building's technical design
producing detailed building plans and elevations using computer-aided design (CAD) software and traditional drawing techniques
deciding the best materials and ways to build while thinking about the environmental impact
contributing to planning applications, proposals and other regulatory processes
working with builders, speaking to authorities and keeping clients updated on how things are going
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Explore more information about this job
Here are some useful links to learn more about this career:
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists – where to start in becoming an architectural technician
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists – CIAT-approved courses
YouTube video – watch Jon and Amy at Edinburgh Napier University as they discuss Architectural Technology
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- working with numbers
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- working with technology
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
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Art and Design
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Art and Design (Design)
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Computing Science
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Design and Manufacture
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Design and Technology
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Engineering Science
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Graphic Communication
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
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Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) in a relevant subject, such as:
Architectural Technology
Construction
Built Environment
College
Getting an HNC or HND qualification at college in Architectural Technology can help you secure a job or progress to more advanced study.
Use the My World of Work course search to find HNC or HND opportunities.
Apprenticeships
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Construction: Technical.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry. You'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni. You'll have a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in Construction and the Built Environment.
While you're studying an approved higher education qualification, you can apply for a student membership with CIAT. When you graduate, you'll be eligible to upgrade your membership to associate level.
Afterwards, you can undertake the MCIAT Professional and Occupational Performance Record (POP) or MCIAT Professional Assessment (equivalent to a Masters Degree). If you've completed a relevant approved or accredited qualification, you may be exempt from some elements of the POP.
Chartered members can run their own practice, which also needs to be registered with CIAT.
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