When the buildings are designed, there are a lot of things to be done as a part of the project. Architects play a vital role while laying the foundation of a building. They are responsible for complete planning and designing of the buildings. They help in selecting a building site and collaborate and coordinate with designers and other workers throughout the project. They have to be involved in the project very closely because their ideas are being turned into reality. They have to make sure that the work is being carried out perfectly and according to the specifications. The architects are required to speculate into problems when they arise and bring about an amicable solution to them as well. They consult with other professionals about the design, present proposals to the client, and use special software and keep their budget limited. Sometimes they have to negotiate with the contractors and prepare planning applications.
Building and construction matters can be complex and thus an architect needs to have proper knowledge about the materials, tools and methods to be used in the process of building the structure. He should be able to make plans and blueprints for the building designs so that they can be presented to the clients for their approval. Engineering and technology or architectural degrees are of great help if one wants to enter this profession. Together with this practical application of the skills are also necessary. An architect should be able to apply his knowledge and create functional designs. Knowledge of mathematics is important. An additional degree in administration and management can also help in getting good jobs. Since the buildings are being made for the public, he should take care of the safety measures and be familiar with the principles and regulations for enhancing security and protection of the general public and property.
The architects work for their clients and this is why they should be patient and active listeners. They should be quick and witty enough to find logical solutions to any problems that may arise during the designing and implementation. All the work assigned needs to be done in a particular time frame, and thus a good architect is one who knows how to manage time and make the most of it. A person who can motivate others and direct them to perform well is the one perfectly suited for this kind of job.
The work of an architect is not easy and thus you would require some training and experience to grab a good job. After you have your degree or diploma in the architecture program, you are asked to take training under an expert and licensed architect. The exact time of training may vary from state to state. After this, you too would be able to sit for the licensing exam. If you have done any CAD course, you can easily work as an intern. After the training, you will have to pass the test that will get you a license. Once you have the certificate and license, you can carry on with your job as an architect.
Getting an internship with some company will be beneficial for you. An architect is supposed to get a few months of training before he gets to sit for the licensing and certification exams.
In the recent times, the need for architects is increasing and career prospects are increasing due to numerous construction projects. Government and private sectors employ architects there by giving rise to healthy career opportunities.
The architects begin their career with simple jobs or internships and earn less. But as they gain experience, the salary scale moves up as well. Average salaries for architects in the previous years were $73,650. The government employees however earned $83,360 and those working with technical and scientific services got $94,110.
The jobs for architects are on the rise but there is shortage of qualified people to fill them up. There are architectural firms that employ architects on a full time basis. Once you are experienced, you can work independently too by starting your own firm. The experts claim that employment for architects are bound to increase by the year 2014.
