Architectural technologists have a wide range of responsibilities. Their skills encompass transcribing architectural designs into work plans and determining many of the necessary construction details on a project site, among others.
Essential Information
Architectural engineering technologists are responsible for the practical aspects of a building's design and construction. They might work as civil engineering technicians or in other positions. They make structural calculations, test materials, estimate costs, and create detailed working documents. Some jobs are available with a high school diploma, but many employers prefer someone with at least an associate's degree in a relevant field.
| Required Education | Associate's degree in civil engineering technology or related field is recommended |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029) | 3% (civil engineering technicians)* |
| Median Annual Salary (2019) | $53,410 (civil engineering technicians)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Salary Information for an Architectural Engineering Technologist
Graduates of architectural engineering technology degree programs can assume different roles within the architecture industry. Job titles include civil engineering technician, construction coordinator, and cost estimator. In May 2019, the BLS reported that professionals in the 90th percentile or higher earned $80,650 or more per year, whereas the bottom 10th percentile earned $33,880 or less per year (www.bls.gov).
In 2021, PayScale.com reported that construction coordinators earned a median salary of $54,818. Entry-level worker with 1 year epxerience earned $45,790 and construction coordinators with 1-4 years of experience earned a median salary of $50,710. During that same time period, cost estimators earned a median salary of $56,885, and senior cost estimators with 20 or more years experience earned a median salary of $64,499, according to PayScale.com.
Duties of an Architectural Engineering Technologist
Architectural engineering technologists convert the initial designs of an architect or civil engineer into technical documents. They deal with the practical aspects of executing a design by writing detailed reports, drafting specifications, and creating presentations. Working professionals can specialize in an architectural specialty, such as fire and safety systems, electrical systems, or foundations.
They use 2-D and 3-D computer-aided design software to create topographical maps and construction schematics. Technologists evaluate building sites using instruments and equipment, such as stabilometers and soil augers. They also perform field tests and laboratory experiments to analyze construction materials.
Additional responsibilities include selecting materials, estimating construction costs, and performing economic analyses of a building's electrical and mechanical systems. Architectural engineering technologists also ensure that design and construction activities comply with relevant codes and regulations.
Outlook for an Architectural Engineering Technologist
The BLS projected employment of civil engineering technicians to grow as fast as the national average through 2029. In May 2019, the BLS reported there were about 70,900 professionals were employed in 2019, whereas employment of nearly 72,700 is anticipated for 2029.
A degree in architectural technology, although not required, can give an aspiring architectural technologist the background and understanding to push them forward in their career. Architectural technologists may work on everything from evaluating the terrain for a project, to choosing materials, to ensuring building code compliance.
