Looking to turn your architectural interests into a lucrative career?
Check out our curated list of the best jobs for people interested in architecture. Perfect for those who find excitement in everything from skyscrapers to sustainable design, you won’t want to miss this.
What Makes a Good Job for People Interested in Architecture?
We looked for jobs that:
- Involve creative problem-solving
- Offer the chance to work on a variety of projects
- Provide opportunities for fieldwork to see designs come to life
- Require collaboration with other design professionals
- Allow for the use of cutting-edge design software
Best Jobs for People Interested in Architecture
You don’t necessarily need a degree to land a well-paying job in the architecture field. Many positions value skills and certifications just as much as formal education, offering plenty of opportunities to excel and earn a good income.
Now that we’ve covered that, let’s jump right into our handpicked list of job ideas for people interested in architecture.
1. Construction Estimator
Average salary: $88,668
A Construction Estimator evaluates the cost of construction projects. You might also hear this role referred to as a Cost Estimator.
Job duties:
- Analyzing blueprints and project plans
- Calculating material and labor costs
- Preparing cost estimates
- Consulting with vendors and subcontractors
- Evaluating cost-effectiveness of different methods
Job requirements:
- Experience in construction industry
- Familiarity with construction software like ProEst or Buildertrend
- Basic understanding of architecture and engineering drawings
- Solid math skills
- Good negotiation skills
- Strong communication abilities
2. Architectural Drafter
Average salary: $58,058
An Architectural Drafter creates detailed drawings and plans for buildings. This role is sometimes called a Draftsperson.
Job duties:
- Converting architects’ sketches into plans
- Adding details to existing architectural plans
- Using CAD software for drafting
- Complying with building codes and regulations
- Coordinating with engineers and architects
Job requirements:
- Associate degree or certification in drafting
- Proficiency in CAD software
- Understanding of building codes
- Attention to detail
- Collaboration skills
- Solid math skills
3. Code Compliance Officer
Average salary: $49,087
A Code Compliance Officer ensures that buildings and construction projects adhere to local and national building codes, zoning regulations, and contract specifications.
Job duties:
- Inspecting construction sites
- Reviewing permit applications
- Enforcing building codes
- Issuing violation notices
- Advising on code requirements
- Compiling inspection reports
Job requirements:
- Certification in building inspection
- Knowledge of local building codes
- Basic understanding of architectural and construction plans
- Good report-writing skills
- Strong communication skills
- Conflict resolution abilities
4. Virtual Reality Designer
Average salary: $74,948
A Virtual Reality Designer crafts immersive VR environments. This job is also known as a VR Developer or VR Engineer.
Job duties:
- Designing 3D environments
- Coding for VR platforms
- User-testing designs
- Collaborating with artists
- Optimizing for hardware constraints
Job requirements:
- Proficiency in a 3D design software like Unity or Unreal
- Basic coding skills, preferably in C# or C++
- Understanding of VR hardware
- Good problem-solving abilities
- Strong collaboration skills
5. 3D Rendering Artist
Average salary: $61,013
A 3D Rendering Artist creates lifelike digital images from computer models. Sometimes called a CGI Artist.
Job duties:
- Creating 3D models
- Texturing models
- Setting up lighting
- Rendering images
- Collaborating with designers
- Tweaking for final output
Job requirements:
- Proficiency in 3D software like Blender or Maya
- Knowledge of texturing and lighting
- Basic understanding of architecture
- Good eye for detail
- Strong collaboration skills
6. Surveyor
Average salary: $56,984
A Surveyor measures land, air space, and water areas, often referred to as Land Surveyor or Geospatial Engineer.
Job duties:
- Measuring distances
- Calculating angles
- Making maps
- Using GPS systems
- Consulting with architects
- Drafting reports
Job requirements:
- Licensure for land surveying
- Familiarity with GIS technology
- Ability to read blueprints
- Strong mathematical skills
- Good physical stamina
- Solid communication abilities
7. Material Specification Consultant
Average salary: $78,593
A Material Specification Consultant advises companies on the best materials to use for projects. Sometimes referred to as a Material Analyst.
Job duties:
- Assessing material quality
- Comparing material costs
- Providing supplier options
- Reviewing project requirements
- Writing reports
- Advising clients
Job requirements:
- Degree in Materials Science or Engineering
- Proficiency in industry-specific software
- Strong analytical abilities
- Good communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Basic project management skills
8. Digital Fabricator
Average salary: $51,310
A Digital Fabricator uses digital technology to create physical objects, often also called a CNC Operator.
Job duties:
- Operating CNC machines
- Following design schematics
- Calibrating equipment
- Running tests
- Conducting quality checks
- Managing material stock
Job requirements:
- Vocational training or certification in CNC operation
- Familiarity with CAD software
- Understanding of materials science
- Good technical aptitude
- Quick problem-solving skills
- Ability to follow safety protocols
9. Architectural Photographer
Average salary: $57,739
An Architectural Photographer captures high-quality images of buildings and other structures, sometimes going by the title of Building Photographer.
Job duties:
- Scouting locations
- Setting up equipment
- Composing shots
- Capturing images
- Editing photos
- Client consultations
- Archiving work
Job requirements:
- Degree in Photography or relevant field
- Portfolio showcasing architectural work
- Proficiency in photo-editing software
- Good eye for composition
- Strong interpersonal skills
- Reliable transportation to various locations
10. Set Designer
Average salary: $55,097
A Set Designer creates the physical environment for stage, film, or television productions, also known as a Scenic Designer in some circles.
Job duties:
- Reading scripts
- Sketching designs
- Sourcing materials
- Building sets
- Painting and decorating
- Collaborating with directors
- Dismantling sets
Job requirements:
- Degree in Set Design or related field
- Experience with CAD software
- Strong spatial awareness
- Good problem-solving abilities
- Collaborative attitude
- Ability to work under tight deadlines
11. Lighting Designer
Average salary: $57,372
A Lighting Designer plans and executes lighting effects for theater, film, and live events.
Job duties:
- Reading scripts
- Creating lighting plans
- Selecting equipment
- Installing lights
- Running tests
- Collaborating with directors
- Operating lighting during events
Job requirements:
- Degree in Lighting Design or related field
- Experience with lighting software
- Familiarity with various lighting equipment
- Attention to detail
- Ability to work with a team
- Comfortable with heights
12. Spatial Analyst
Average salary: $81,181
A Spatial Analyst interprets and visualizes spatial data, often known as Geospatial Analyst in some industries.
Job duties:
- Gathering data
- Using GIS tools
- Creating maps
- Analyzing patterns
- Making recommendations
- Presenting findings
- Documenting work
Job requirements:
- Degree in Geography, GIS, or related field
- Proficiency in GIS software
- Strong data analysis skills
- Good with numbers
- Effective communication skills
- Detail-oriented
13. Acoustic Consultant
Average salary: $64,844
An Acoustic Consultant assesses and controls sound and vibrations in various environments.
Job duties:
- Analyzing sound data
- Recommending noise control measures
- Assessing building plans
- Conducting field tests
- Meeting clients
- Creating reports
- Collaborating with architects
Job requirements:
- Degree in Acoustical Engineering or related field
- Experience with sound measuring equipment
- Familiarity with acoustic software
- Problem-solving skills
- Good communication skills
- Flexible schedule for fieldwork
See, There Are Careers for People Interested in Architecture!
From Code Compliance Officer to 3D Rendering Artist, we’ve gathered a compelling roster of jobs for the architecture aficionados out there.
What’s catching your eye? Share your top picks in the comments.