What is the job outlook for an architect?
Through the year 2029, the architecture jobs’ outlook and that of related fields is mixed. Some jobs are expected to grow, while others will likely contract. The improvement of technology for specific tasks has reduced the number of employees required for those aspects of the design and construction process. For other jobs, the field was affected by the economic downturn of 2008 and 2009 but is rebounding and creating new opportunities. People considering a career in architecture should consider which area they wish to pursue and choose specialized training to take them down that path.
What is the average salary for architects?
The average base pay for architects in the United States is $86,500 as of March 2021. The salary that an architect earns varies by geography, years of experience, and level of education. Paid internships in architecture pay an average of $27,000 per year. Starting salaries for newly licensed professionals average around $60,000 per year, while experienced professionals in management roles can exceed $160,000 annually in large markets.
Are architects in high demand?
The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects the demand for architects to grow by 1% between 2019 and 2029. Architect job growth is somewhat slower than other fields, but it’s still growing in a positive direction. One reason for the slow-down from the prior years is that the computer-aided design tools available make modern architects more efficient and productive, so fewer people are necessary to get the work done. It’s important to note that this architecture jobs outlook is specific to the job market for architects, but there are many related occupations that may be more or less in demand. Geography also plays a role in the architect unemployment rate.
What are some architecture jobs and what is the career outlook for each?
Many people who work in architecture may have other titles and work in related areas. Architecture professionals perform many functions within all levels of government, in the real estate world, and in the sustainable construction industry. Here are a few possible architecture job prospects for those with a background in architecture and the projected outlook for those jobs.
Construction and building inspectors
Average Base Pay: $54,616 per year Construction and building inspectors evaluate projects for compliance with building codes and other local requirements and specifications. Like civil engineers, they often work for government agencies, but they may also work for consultant firms. The job growth outlook for construction and building inspectors between 2019 and 2029 is 3%, which tracks with the average growth rate in other fields.
Construction managers
Average Base Pay: $74,730 per year Construction managers are responsible for supervising every aspect of building projects, including budgets, timelines, and labor. They work in many industries and for consulting firms. The job growth outlook for construction managers between 2019 and 2029 is 8%, much faster than the average growth rate for other occupations.
Cost estimators
Average Base Pay: $56,571 per year Cost estimators gather information and project how much a given construction project will cost, how long it will take, what materials will be needed, and what human resources will be necessary. These professionals work for private companies, financial firms, and other entities within the construction industry. The job growth outlook for cost estimators between 2019 and 2029 shows a slight decrease, mainly due to advances in technology that have reduced the number of employees necessary.
Drafters
Average Base Pay: $55,567 per year Drafters convert designs to technical drawings. These professionals may work in any organization that employs architects and engineers, as they are often partnered together on projects. The job growth outlook for drafters between 2019 and 2029 is expected to decline by 4%. This fall-off is a result of software advances that reduce the number of drafters companies keep on staff.
Interior designers
Average Base Pay: $50,224 per year Interior designers create indoor spaces in the same way architects create buildings. They factor in the area’s planned uses, the safety needs, and the appearance that the client is looking to achieve to determine square footage requirements and related requirements. Interior designers work for architectural firms, design houses, and similar organizations. The job growth outlook for interior designers between 2019 and 2029 is expected to decline by 5% due to technology improvements.
Landscape architects
Average Base Pay: $55,167 per year Landscape architects design outdoor spaces, such as playgrounds and parks. The role of a landscape architect is very similar to that of one who designs buildings. Many of these professionals work for governments, but many work in private sector firms as well. Due to advances in technology, the job growth outlook for landscape architects is expected to decline by about 2% between 2019 and 2029.
Real estate developers
Average Base Pay: $125,255 per year Real estate developers use their knowledge of the land, construction principles, and engineering to lay out commercial and residential projects. The professionals are often self-employed, but they may work for large corporations with holdings in multiple areas of the country. The job growth outlook for real estate developers between 2019 and 2029 is expected to remain flat.
Restoration architects
Average Base Pay: $72,694 per year Restoration architects, sometimes called restoration planners or restoration managers, specialize in restoring and preserving historic buildings and other structures. They have specialized skills and knowledge in construction materials and how to keep them from wearing away over time, as well as how to restore them when they begin to erode or break down. Many are self-employed, but some work for design and architectural firms. The job growth outlook for restoration architects between 2019 and 2020 is expected to remain flat.
Urban and regional planners
Average Base Pay: $57,490 per year Urban and regional planners evaluate plots of land to make sure they are a good fit for planned development. They consider trends in population growth and community development. Planners also participate in plans for building renovations and re-purposing. They work for governments, engineering and architectural firms, and consulting groups. The job growth outlook for urban and regional planners between 2019 and 2029 is expected to grow significantly, by as much as 11%, driven by changing demographics and the need for innovation in land and building usage.
The architecture jobs outlook is growing more competitive as computer technology makes it possible for fewer people to manage the workload. However, the employment rate for architects still shows an overall positive growth rate.
For more, visit glassdoor.com.
Source: Glassdoor
