What is an Architectural Technician and how to become one

If your goal is to lead teams in designing and building spaces where people live, work, and play, you might want to aim for a role as an Architectural Technician.

An Architectural Technician uses cutting-edge technology to collaborate with architects and engineers, turning building plans and models into reality.

Why now is the perfect time to study Architectural Technology

According to research, the global architecture, engineering and construction sector is projected to record a 10.3% compound annual growth rate, resulting in a $24.36 billion value by 2032. This boom means the job opportunities as an Architectural Technician in the building industry are set to grow by 11.9% over the next five years with an average salary of $90,000 per year, there’s no better time to start your career.

What is an Architectural Technician?

Being an Architectural Technician means being all about technology. You’ll transform ideas into reality using principles like Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and Building Information Modeling (BIM).

Ultimately, you’ll be the person bringing ideas and design concepts to life, mastering cutting-edge, industry-standard software including SketchUp, Revit, Rhino3D with Grasshopper, Unreal Engine, and V-Ray. You will also implement Building Information Modelling (BIM) into computer models of architects and engineers during the design phase. Next, the BIM models will guide the construction phase and enhance the maintenance phase of the buildings. You'll even experiment with innovative technology like augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR), which are revolutionising the industry.

What exactly does an Architectural Technician do?

• Assist in designing and managing projects of all sizes. Projects can range from minor up to large-scale commercial renovations for educational, hospital, industrial, and residential properties, as well as public places.
• Spearheading a project’s tech design and documentation, seamlessly linking concept, innovation and realisation.
• Use CAD to build the foundations of the design concept.
• Leverage BIM to evaluate building efficiency and performance, as well as carry out construction phase risk assessments.
• Stay up to date with building regulations and cutting-edge technologies within the architectural industry including the strategic promotion of artificial intelligence (AI).

Essential skills for an Architectural Technician

With the role being so heavily reliant on technology, it’s no surprise the essential skills involve industry software and digital technology proficiency, with a side serving of soft skills. To succeed in this role, you'll need:

• Working knowledge of industry software: Including Revit, Phino3D with Grasshopper, SketchUp, Unreal Engine and V-Ray.
• Project management skills: So you can deliver a project on time and to spec.
• Stakeholder management: Clear, effective communication is key with empathetic soft skills.
• An understanding of engineering services: Electrical, hydraulic - fire protection/plumbing, mechanical, and structural.
• A solid grasp of architectural principles: Such as spatial planning, materials and construction assemblies.

Our Bachelor of Architectural Technology will set you up for success with all of this.

Mastering these skills won't just open doors; it'll allow you to push boundaries, drive innovation, and shape the future of sustainable architecture and immersive digital environments.

Architectural Technician qualifications

If you're serious about this career, there are two key steps to get there.

1. Get qualified

The Bachelor of Architectural Technology degree at Torrens University arms you with the extensive knowledge and skills you need to work in studios to design and coordinate projects, as well as in architectural firms (under the guidance of a registered Architect).

Over three years, you’ll learn about architectural history and how to design the future. You will learn to plan spaces, develop an understanding of the principles of building structures, generate building solutions using computational architectural software, learn software skills for construction documentation, create immersive digital environments, implement BIM, and specify materials whilst flexing your problem-solving skills and creativity.

As a Billy Blue student at Torrens University Australia, you’ll learn from working industry experts who are just as passionate about architecture as you are. With smaller class sizes, you can build strong networks with your classmates and lecturers. Plus, you’ll get one-on-one mentoring to give your career an even stronger foundation.

2. Get practical experience

While learning is crucial, real-world experience is where you truly grow. Identify the architecture, 3D interactive animation, and interior studios that resonate with your style, and keep an eye on our student Careers Connect platform, as well as job boards like SEEK to find entry-level jobs or internships that fit your career goals.

In case you didn't know, Billy Blue College of Design is all about getting you plugged in with the industry, so that you graduate ready to slide straight into your dream career. As part of your course, you'll complete work integrated learning, allowing you to take your learnings and apply them to real-world projects via a live industry brief or internship, and a double capstone project.

Plus, you get to make friends with our friends, who happen to be industry partners leading the sector. This includes architecture firm BVN and creative agency 3D interactive animation studio Arterra Interactive, just to name a few. These connections give you direct insight into best practices, innovative technologies, and a head start in your job search.

Kickstart your journey today

Becoming an Architectural Technician is not as intimidating as it may seem. It starts with you and your passion for creating spaces for communities to live, work, and play in.

Fuel that passion with a Bachelor of Architectural Technology, master the tools so you can break boundaries and step into a career where you can bring bold architectural visions to life.