When it comes to architecture and design, being paid the most is the goal of most professionals. But what type of architecture jobs actually pull in the most money? Before you set up shop and decide to take on architecture jobs, there’s a few considerations you should make.
Broadly speaking, there are four main types of architecture jobs that pay the biggest salaries: infrastructure, industrial, residential and commercial. Infrastructure architects, who will design future roads and bridges, typically have the highest salary in the industry. They need to be able to understand detailed technical drawings and oversee large projects, so they should expect to be paid handsomely for their expertise.
Industrial architects are responsible for designing large plants and warehouses for companies. They must also be aware of the needs of their clients, as well as applicable codes, in order to come up with the best design. Industrial architecture jobs pay well, due to the technical know-how and understanding of building codes required to do the job.
Residential architects, who design luxury homes for their clients, also command higher salaries. They often work with prestigious clients and may be required to design unique and highly customised dwellings for them. Such architects must have a keen aesthetic eye and a deep understanding of design principles.
Lastly, commercial architects design retail outlets, movie theatres and shopping centres. They need to be aware of the changing trends in the industry, in order to develop the most attractive, up-to-date designs. Architects working on large projects, such as malls or corporate headquarters, can expect the best pay in this sector.
Infrastructure Architects
Infrastructure architects are responsible for coming up with the big-picture designs for large projects such as bridges and tunnels. They must be highly knowledgeable about structural engineering, soil science, economics, construction and other related disciplines. They also need to be highly creative and be able to visualise how a design will come together in the physical world.
Infrastructure architects are typically in demand due to the large amount of public works and infrastructure projects currently being undertaken. This means that there will be no shortage of work for these architects and thus, they can expect to be paid top dollar for their knowledge and expertise.
These architects must also be prepared to work long hours and respond to calls at all hours of the day. They also need to be strong problem solvers and have a comprehensive knowledge of building codes and regulations.
Infrastructure architects may find work with government agencies, engineering firms and construction companies. They can also choose to enter private practice and collaborate on projects with other architects and engineers. Such professionals must also remain up to date with advances in technology, as this could significantly impact their work.
Industrial Architects
Industrial architects who specialise in designing warehouses and plants need to have a deep understanding of the construction industry. They must be knowledgeable about materials, building codes, structural engineering, soil science and other disciplines related to their profession.
Industrial architects need to think through every detail of the construction process, in order to come up with the most cost effective and efficient design. They often work with engineers, contractors and clients to come up with the best design possible. Such jobs require excellent problem-solving skills and negotiating ability, and may also require advanced computer skills in 3D design software.
Industrial architects may find work with engineering firms, construction companies and government agencies. They may also choose to enter private practice and take on clients directly. Such professionals should anticipate long hours and complex problem solving, in order to come up with the best designs for their clients. In return, they will be handsomely paid for their knowledge and expertise.
Residential Architects
Residential architects specialise in designing and building luxury homes for their clients. This is one of the toughest jobs in the industry and architects should be prepared to work long hours and come up with unique designs for each client. To be successful in this industry, architects must possess an eye for aesthetic design, as their clients usually have high expectations and an understanding of the principles of design.
Most residential architects prefer to take on private clients, as they can offer the most flexibility. They may also work with developers and construction companies on large luxury residential projects. Such professionals must also be aware of the local building codes, as well as the budget and timeline of the project.
Architects in this sector are generally paid well due to the demand for their services. They must also be able to handle pressure and collaborate with a range of people in order to come up with the best designs for their clients. This can be a highly satisfying job for those who are passionate about design.
Commercial Architects
Commercial architects design large retail outlets, shopping centres and corporate headquarters. Their job involves working with large teams of engineers, contractors and clients to come up with the best designs.
Commercial architects should have a keen eye for the latest trends in the industry, as they must be able to come up with attractive and modern designs. They must also be aware of the needs of the client and be able to match the building design to the purpose of the space.
In general, these architects are paid very well for their expertise. They must also be able to manage large teams and respond to changing demands of the client.
Commercial architects may work with developers, large corporations and engineering firms. They may also choose to enter private practice and collaborate with other architects and engineers. Such professionals must keep abreast of the latest advances in technology, as this will significantly affect the type of designs they are able to come up with.
Education and Training
To be a successful architect, one must be highly educated and trained in the field. Most aspiring architects go on to complete a Master’s degree in Architecture, which may take anywhere from two to four years to complete.
Apart from formal education, it’s also important to gain practical experience. This can be done through internships or cooperative education programs. Such programs give students the opportunity to work on their own projects and gain real-world experience.
It also takes a certain degree of artistic sensibility and passion to be a successful architect. Architects must be creative and be able to visualise a space in their minds’ eye before bringing it to life. They should also be able to handle the pressure of tight deadlines and dealing with a variety of personalities.
Ultimately, knowledge and experience will determine how much an architect gets paid. An experienced and knowledgeable architect, who is able to bring a client’s vision to life, will be rewarded handsomely for their expertise.
Licensing and Certification
Most countries have their own set of regulations regarding the licensing and certification of architects. To be a practicing architect, one must meet the qualifications and pass the licensing exams set by the respective jurisdictions. Licensing exams include topics such as building codes, materials and construction processes.
Apart from licensing, architects may also opt to take up voluntary certification programmes. These programmes can help to demonstrate one’s knowledge and expertise in the field, and may even help to increase one’s salary.
One should be aware that some employers may require architects to keep their licences and certifications up to date in order to be hired or promoted. This means that architects should be prepared to continuously further their education and skills in order to remain competitive in the industry.
Staying Competitive
Architects should always strive to stay on top of the latest trends and advances in the field. That can be done by attending conferences, reading up on the latest industry publications and networking with other professionals. Doing this helps to keep one’s knowledge and skills up to date, which will come in handy for getting jobs and negotiating for better salaries.
Architects should also be prepared to put in long hours and work hard in order to succeed in their careers. While the road to success may not be easy, the rewards can be very satisfying in the end. By staying competitive and working hard to stay abreast of the latest advances in the field, architects will be able to command the highest salaries in the industry.
