Opportunities for Architectural Management

The scope of architectural work is very broad. 

Where does an Architectural Manager fit?

Courtesy: Enon Chapel

Let’s look at a typical environment of an architectural firm in the industry. 

As the California Occupational Guide suggests, Architects often work with urban and interior designers, structural engineers, landscape architects and members of other professions to incorporate their efforts into the total building project. Architects employed by large firms often work on extensive projects as part of a development team; each member specializes in one phase of work such as planning, programming, designing, cost estimating, writing project specifications, or administering construction contracts. Work assignments often vary from project to project, depending upon customer need or the Architect's special area of interest. The principal or other senior architect of the firm negotiates with clients to secure projects and handles most business contacts with clients. Architects functioning as site planners and designers conduct site analysis and establish basic requirements for the project and suggest alternative design concepts...  Once the general design has been set,  

Architects prepare schematic and design development drawings. The project director supervises a staff which includes drafters. Drafters prepare working drawings, models, sketches of the proposed finished building and other necessary graphics. Architects also supervise specification writers who set the qualities and dimensions of the materials to be used and estimators who develop cost estimates based on building area, material types and quantities. During construction, construction administrators oversee the work to ensure that the requirements of the plans and specifications are met.

 

courtesy: University of Central Lancashire

Architects working for small firms usually work on individual commercial or industrial structures, apartment buildings, residences, or additions to existing buildings. In these firms, one Architect is likely to perform several functions such as designer, drafter, estimator and construction overseer, as well as communicating directly with clients and building contractors.

Now, in such an environment, where is the position for a new architect? Architects typically enter the job market as junior drafter/designers. Employers prefer new hires with outstanding drafting and drawing abilities and experience gained through internships, even though candidates may have a master’s degree. There is a strong competition in such job profiles. To overcome this competition, the candidate may need additional skills such as presentation skills, knowledge of advance IT tools, organization skills, project management and site management skills, etc. These management skills can boost your chances of better opportunities not only when seeking a job in an architectural firm but also when you are planning to start your own design practice. 

courtesy: Peter Anthony

Many firms across the world have realized the importance of management skills and now they prefer to hire architectural managers in their companies.

Many firms across the world have realized the importance of management skills and now they prefer to hire architectural managers in their companies. 

The median expected salary for a typical Architectural Manager in the United States is $98,506. This basic market pricing report was prepared using Certified Compensation Professionals' analysis of survey data collected from thousands of HR departments at employers of all sizes, industries and geographies. 

What Skills does Architectural Manager need?

• Create a design concept of building / structures which meet the client’s requirements 
• Manages and supervises all related activities of a staff of architects and technicians. 
• Directly manages the development of architectural designs and preliminary construction details. 
• Prepare feasibility reports, technical reports 
• Familiar with local laws, design codes and submission requirements 
• Ensures architectural design work is completed on time and adheres to the established specifications and standards. 
• May prepare project schedules, bids, or proposals. 
• Quality Assurance/control 
• Leads and directs the work of others. A wide degree of creativity and latitude is expected. Typically reports to a head of a unit/department. 
• Good interpersonal and communication skills 

Some of the following websites may give you an idea on the demand and opportunities for Architectural Management in different countries: 

• Jobs for Architectural Project Management 
• Architectural Management jobs in Singapore 
• Job for Design Manager/ Team Leader in the Architecture Division. 
• Job for an Architectural Manager at PES, New Jersey 
• Job for an Architecture - Project Manager 
• Management skills for Project Architect 

Architects no longer work in isolation. They work as a team and offer many more services than before. In such scenario, management has become an integral part of the architectural industry. Gradually, most companies around the world are realizing the need for Architectural Management. The future is here!

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