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Architects plan and design the construction and development of buildings and land areas with regard to functional and aesthetic requirements.

Main tasks

  • Monitors construction work in progress to ensure compliance with specifications.
  • Prepares detailed scale drawings and specifications for design and construction and submits these for planning approval.
  • Analyses site survey and advises client on development and construction details and ensures that proposed design blends in with the surrounding area.
  • Studies condition and characteristics of site, taking into account drainage, topsoil, trees, rock formations, etc..
  • Liaises with client and other professionals to establish building type, style, cost limitations and landscaping requirements.

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Salary and earnings

Potential earnings

£62,165.64

Average earnings

£34,179.99

Source: Office for National Statistics' Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE).

Skills & knowledge

The top 5 most important skills and knowledge requirements relevant to this career.

Active Listening

Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Critical Thinking

Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.

Active Learning

Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.

Writing

Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.

Monitoring

Monitoring/Assessing performance of yourself, other individuals, or organizations to make improvements or take corrective action.

Building and Construction

Knowledge of materials, methods, and the tools involved in the construction or repair of houses, buildings, or other structures such as highways and roads.

Design

Knowledge of design techniques, tools, and principles involved in production of precision technical plans, blueprints, drawings, and models.

Engineering and Technology

Knowledge of the practical application of engineering science and technology. This includes applying principles, techniques, procedures, and equipment to the design and production of various goods and services.

Mathematics

Knowledge of arithmetic, algebra, geometry, calculus, statistics, and their applications.

English Language

Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.

What course level do I need to study?

The level of study required will vary with each job, sector and company. The table below shows the level of study achieved by those currently working in this career choice.

Educational requirements: Level 5 NVQ; Masters

Source: Office for National Statistics.

Level of study Percentage achieved
Level 3 2%
Level 4-5 (Higher Education) 2%
Level 6 (Bachelors) 48%
Level 7 (Masters or equivalent) 47%

Source: Labour Force Survey (LFS) data.

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Economic data for careers is provided by Lightcast and also available through our Career Coach app. Job postings, employment and earnings information is represented at the regional level for the East Midlands.