Architects
(NOC 2151)
in All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information TechnologyArchitects conceptualize, plan and develop designs for the construction and renovation of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They are employed by architectural firms, private corporations and governments, or they may be self-employed. Architects may specialize in a particular type of construction such as 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. Furthermore, the jobs are typically permanent positions.
The median employment income for 63% 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
N/A
MinimumN/A
MedianN/A
MaximumAnnual Pay
$3,610
Minimum$52,098
Median$96,564
MaximumCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
Hourly Pay
$17.69
Minimum$31.35
Median$47.18
MaximumAnnual Pay
$13,568
Minimum$60,422
Median$107,009
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Architects conceptualize, plan and develop designs for the construction and renovation of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. They are employed by architectural firms, private corporations and governments, or they may be self-employed. Architects may specialize in a particular type of construction such as residential, commercial, industrial or institutional.
Job duties
Architects perform some or all of the following duties:
- Consult with clients to determine the type, style and purpose of renovations or new building construction being considered.
- Conceptualize and 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 previous classes in fields such as 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) is required.
- A master's degree in architecture may be required.
- Completion of 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. Progression to senior positions, such as 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
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
North Shore
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Professional Business Services
Public Administration
What is the age of Employment?
25-34
55-64
35-44
15-24
65+
Compared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
35-44
45-54
55-64
25-34
65+
Top levels of education
Doctorate
N/ABachelor's degree
$52,577 median annual incomeUniversity advanced certificate or diploma
N/ACollege certificate or diploma
$54,804 median annual incomeCompared to: All Engineering, Math, Science, and Information Technology
College certificate or diploma
$52,476 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$58,011 median annual incomeHigh school
$35,125 median annual incomeMaster's degree
$37,706 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$54,923 median annual incomeEducation & training
Architecture (BArch, BA/BSc, MArch, MA/MSc, PhD)
This program is typically offered at the university level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals for the independent professional practice of architecture and to conduct research in various aspects of the field or that provides instruction in basic principles, methods and concepts related to architecture. These programs 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
Office of the Registrar
Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
(902) 494-2450
Sustainability studies
This program is typically offered at the university level.Institutions providing this program
Office of the Registrar
Halifax, NS B3H 4R2
(902) 494-2450
6350 Coburg Road
Halifax, NS B3H 2A1
(902) 422-1271
Employment requirements & contacts
Regulations
Right to Title and Practice: This job is regulated, and the job title is protected in Nova Scotia (you may not use this job title without holding a provincial licence). A licence shows that the holder has met provincial requirements and is required to work in this job.