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Architect job description: what you'll do and what to write on your resume

Applying for architect at a design firm or construction company? Copy the duties below into your resume, then read what the interview asks.

Duties to write on your resume

Start each line with what you did. Keep the ones you've really done.

• Prepared architectural drawings and floor plans using AutoCAD and Revit
• Built three-dimensional models and renders to show clients how a design would look
• Met clients to understand their needs, budget limits and site conditions
• Prepared construction documents and details for contractors, engineers and permit offices
• Checked designs against the building code and zoning rules before submission
• Visited job sites to check that work followed the approved plans
• Coordinated with structural, electrical and mechanical engineers to fix design conflicts
• Reviewed contractor submittals and answered questions during construction

A resume objective you can adapt

Licensed architect with strong drafting and modelling skills, looking for a design role where I can turn client needs into clear, buildable plans.

Skills employers ask for

• AutoCAD and Revit drafting
• Three-dimensional modelling and rendering
• Knowledge of the building code
• Clear drawings and presentations for clients
• Working with engineers and contractors

What the interview asks

1. Walk us through a project you're proud of. Pick one project and explain your role, the problem and how you solved it.
2. How do you handle a client who keeps changing the design? Say you listen, explain the effect on time and cost, then confirm changes in writing.
3. What would you do if the plans clash with the building code? Say you flag it early, fix the design and never skip the rule.
4. Which design software do you use best? Name the programs you really know and give one task you did with each.

The questions every interview asks, with sample answers

How to get hired

1. Most posts ask for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture.
2. Pass the Licensure Examination for Architects to get your PRC licence. It asks for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and at least two years of experience certified by a licensed architect.
3. Prepare a resume, a portfolio of your best drawings and models, a valid ID and your government numbers.
4. Apply to firms and construction companies through their career pages or job sites.
5. Expect an interview and a portfolio review.

Licence or certificate

• Working as an architect needs a PRC licence: pass the Licensure Examination for Architects, which asks for a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and at least two years of experience certified by a licensed architect. Source

What the work is like

You split your time between the desk and the job site. The hard part is deadlines, since clients and engineers keep changing things and you must fix the drawings fast.

Use the architect resume template

Questions

Do I need a licence to work as an architect?

Yes. You need a PRC licence, which means passing the Licensure Examination for Architects.

What should I study to become an architect?

Take a Bachelor of Science in Architecture. Then get experience under a licensed architect before the exam.

Can I work as an architect before I'm licensed?

You can work as a junior designer or draftsperson under a licensed architect while you gain experience.

Similar jobs

• Civil engineer
• Project engineer
• Project manager
• Quantity surveyor
• Graphic designer

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