Architects
(NOC 2151)
in All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information TechnologyArchitects design and advise clients about building projects. They develop sketches and construction drawings, estimate costs, write specifications, review on-site construction work, and provide design solutions to complex problems. They work for architectural firms, private corporations, and governments, or they may be self-employed. Architects may specialize in a construction like residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is not a large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities may not be that frequent. The number employed in this occupation is expected to remain largely the same over the next few years. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Architects most commonly work full-time hours. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 53% of Architects who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $63,192. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$17.00
Minimum$35.00
Median$75.38
MaximumAnnual Pay
$3,610
Minimum$52,098
Median$96,564
MaximumCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
Hourly Pay
$18.00
Minimum$37.80
Median$48.46
MaximumAnnual Pay
$13,568
Minimum$60,422
Median$107,009
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Architects design and advise clients about building projects. They develop sketches and construction drawings, estimate costs, write specifications, review on-site construction work, and provide design solutions to complex problems. They work for architectural firms, private corporations, and governments, or they may be self-employed. Architects may specialize in a construction like residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional.
Job duties
Architects:
- Consult with clients to determine the type, style and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered.
- Design buildings and develop plans describing design specifications, building materials, costs, and construction schedules.
- Prepare sketches and models for clients.
- Prepare or supervise the preparation of drawings, specifications, and other construction documents for use by contractors and tradespersons.
- Prepare bidding documents, participate in contract negotiations, and award construction contracts.
- Monitor activities on construction sites to ensure compliance with specifications.
- Conduct feasibility studies and financial analyses of building projects.
Sample job titles
- architect
- architectural standards specialist
- chief architect
- consulting architect
- industrial and commercial buildings architect
- residential architect
Skills
The duties of an architect require a number of skills: design, technological, managerial, communication, and supervisory. Architectural studies require an understanding of individual and social needs, and knowledge of humanities, fine arts, and technology. Well-rounded personal and academic experience is helpful, as well as experience in drawing, craft, and computer applications. Architecture students often benefit from classes in fields like anthropology, art history, engineering, literature, mathematics, philosophy, and physics.
Job requirements
- A bachelor's degree from an accredited school of architecture or completion of the syllabus of studies from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC).
- A master's degree in architecture may be required.
- A three-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect is required.
- Completion of the architect registration examination is required.
- Registration with the provincial association of architects in the province of work is required.
- Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification is offered by the Canada Green Building Council and may be required by some employers.
Other considerations
Most architects are self-employed or work for small firms. Movement to senior positions like chief architect is possible with experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Annapolis Valley
North Shore
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Professional, scientific and technical services
Public administration
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
45-54
55-64
65+
35-44
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
25-34
45-54
35-44
55-64
15-24
Top levels of education
Master
$52,016 median annual incomeBachelor
$46,071 median annual incomeDiploma Above Bachelor
N/ADiploma Below Bachelor
N/ACollege Diploma
N/ACompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
College Diploma
$59,986 median annual incomeBachelor
$63,965 median annual incomeHigh school
$45,835 median annual incomeMaster
$65,105 median annual incomeApprenticeship
$57,773 median annual incomeEducation & training
Architecture (BArch, BA/BSc, MArch, MA/MSc, PhD)
University ProgramThese programs prepare students for the independent professional practice of architecture and to conduct research in various aspects of the field or that provides instruction in principles, methods and concepts related to architecture. They include courses in architectural design, history, and theory, building structures and environmental systems, project and site planning, construction, professional responsibilities and standards, and related cultural, social, economic, and environmental issues.
Institutions providing this program
Sustainability Studies
University ProgramThese programs focus on the concept of sustainability from an interdisciplinary perspective. They include courses in sustainable development, environmental policies, ethics, ecology, landscape architecture, city and regional planning, economics, natural resources, sociology, and anthropology.
Institutions providing this program
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Right to Title and Practice: This job is regulated. The job title is protected, and you may not use it without a professional licence. A licence shows that the holder has met provincial requirements and is required to legally do this work.