What They Do
Architects typically perform the following tasks:
• Develop final construction plans that include aesthetic representations of the structure or details for its construction.
• Prepare scale drawings or architectural designs, using computer-aided design or other tools.
• Prepare information regarding design, structure specifications, materials, color, equipment, estimated costs, or construction time.
• Consult with clients to determine functional or spatial requirements of structures.
• Meet with clients to review or discuss architectural drawings.
• Monitor the work of specialists, such as electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, interior designers, or sound specialists to ensure optimal form or function of designs or final structures.
• Integrate engineering elements into unified architectural designs.
• Plan layouts of structural architectural projects.
• Conduct periodic on-site observations of construction work to monitor compliance with plans.
• Prepare contract documents for building contractors.
• Plan or design structures such as residences, office buildings, theatres, factories, or other structural properties in accordance with environmental, safety, or other regulations.
• Direct activities of technicians engaged in preparing drawings or specification documents.
• Administer construction contracts.
• Create three-dimensional or interactive representations of designs, using computer-assisted design software.
• Represent clients in obtaining bids or awarding construction contracts.
• Develop marketing materials, proposals, or presentations to generate new work opportunities.
• Perform predesign services, such as feasibility or environmental impact studies.
• Design structures that incorporate environmentally friendly building practices or concepts, such as Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards.
• Design or plan construction of green building projects to minimize adverse environmental impact or conserve energy.
• Gather information related to projects' environmental sustainability or operational efficiency.
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Key facts
Median: $96,690
Employment: 123,600
Growth (2024–2034):
+4.0%
Education:
Bachelor's degree
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Intelligence Metrics
Automation Risk Assessment
Low RiskWork-Life Balance Score
6.1/10Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
8.2
Realistic
8.8
Investigative
6.4
Artistic
5.2
Social
5.8
Enterprising
6.6
Conventional
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Personality Match: The higher the score (out of 10), the better this career matches that personality type. People with similar interests and work styles tend to be most satisfied in careers that match their personality profile.
Top Skills
Analytical skills
Communication skills
Creativity
Organizational skills
Technical skills
Visualization skills
Strengths
- High Demand
- Flexible Work
- Continuous Learning
Challenges
- Burnout Risk
- Rapid Technological Change
Median Salary Comparison
Employment projection (2024–2034)
Geographic Employment & Wage Analysis
BLS OEWS Data Updated 2024-05States with Highest Employment
- California 13,880
- New York 10,930
- Texas 8,030
- Illinois 5,580
- Florida 5,500
- Massachusetts 4,790
- Washington 4,500
- Pennsylvania 4,140
- Colorado 4,010
- Ohio 3,080
BLS OEWS data (2024-05)
Regional Wage Variations
-
California +9%$105,840
-
New York 2%$98,580
-
Texas -11%$85,770
-
Illinois -18%$79,320
-
Florida -13%$83,720
-
Massachusetts 5%$101,980
-
Washington 1%$97,800
-
Pennsylvania -1%$95,640
-
Colorado -1%$95,620
-
Ohio 0%$97,130
BLS OEWS state wage data
Top Metropolitan Areas
New York-Newark-Jersey City
Employment: High
Growth: +3.2%
Los Angeles-Long Beach
Employment: High
Growth: +2.8%
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin
Employment: Medium
Growth: +1.5%
Dallas-Fort Worth
Employment: Medium
Growth: +4.1%
San Francisco-Oakland
Employment: High
Growth: +2.3%
Based on BLS metropolitan area data
Industries with Highest Concentrations
Government, excluding state and local education and hospitals
85%
Architectural, engineering, and related services
70%
Construction
55%
Regional Job Market Outlook
Strong
West Coast
Stable
Northeast
Growing
South