Architectural technician
Collect and organise the technical information needed to make sure a new building can be constructed.
About the job
What it's like
Do you have a sharp eye for detail and a strong interest in the technical aspects of design, helping turn architects’ ideas into real buildings?
As an architectural technician, you’ll focus on the technical aspects of building design – creating detailed drawings and specifications.
Working alongside architects, surveyors and other construction professionals, you'll play a key role in the development of new buildings. These projects can range from small home extensions to massive sports stadiums. Your work will aim to meet your client's exact needs.
Your tasks might include:
organising the technical information needed
assisting architects and clients in developing the building's technical design
producing detailed building plans and elevations using computer-aided design (CAD) software and traditional drawing techniques
deciding the best materials and ways to build while thinking about the environmental impact
contributing to planning applications, proposals and other regulatory processes
working with builders, speaking to authorities and keeping clients updated on how things are going
Green job
In this job you'll be doing work to help the environment. Find out more about green jobs.
Hours
You'll usually work Monday to Friday, but may need to work some overtime to meet deadlines.
Environment
You'll mainly be office-based, creating and reviewing plans
You'll also visit construction sites to check progress
You could visit clients to give update them on progress that's being made
Travel
You'll need to travel to construction sites and visit clients depending on the project you're working on.
Explore more information about this job
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Related industries
Many jobs can be done in lots of different industries. We've highlighted the ones we think are most important for this job.
Top skills
Skills are things you're good at. Whether you know what yours are or not, everyone has them!
It's useful to learn which ones are important in a job so you know the areas you need to brush up on. It can also help you work out if you're suited to a career.
Top specialised skills
These are the top specialised skills that have been found in job vacancies across Scotland. From April 2024 to April 2025.
- autodesk revit
- autocad
- architectural drawing
- architectural design
- working drawings
- sketchup (3d modeling software)
- archicad
- microstation (cad design software)
- grasshopper (design software)
- autodesk 3ds max (3d graphics software)
Meta skills
Here are some of the meta skills you'll need to do this job.
- taking responsibility
- developing a plan
- attention to detail
- working with numbers
- innovative
- designing
- creative
- working with technology
- verbal communication
Your skills are important
Our unique skillsets are what make us stand out from the crowd. Learn about each skill in depth and discover what employers look for in your applications and interviews.
Getting in
Explore each section to find more information about getting into this career.
Colleges and universities will list subjects you'll need for entry to a course. Some useful subjects include:
Art and Design
Art and Design (Design)
Computing Science
Design and Manufacture
Design and Technology
Engineering Science
Graphic Communication
Foundation Apprenticeship: Engineering
Foundation Apprenticeship: Construction
You can get a head start in this career by doing a Foundation Apprenticeship in S5 and S6.
You'll get an SCQF level 6 qualification which is the same level as a Higher. You'll also learn new skills and gain valuable experience in a work environment.
Discover what's on offer at your school on Apprenticeships.scot.
University
You’ll need a degree or postgraduate qualification accredited by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) in a relevant subject, such as:
Architectural Technology
Construction
Built Environment
College
Getting an HNC or HND qualification at college in Architectural Technology can help you get a job or progress to more advanced study.
Apprenticeship
Modern Apprenticeships (MAs) mean you learn on the job. You get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time. You might want to consider an MA in Construction: Technical.
Discover Modern Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
Graduate Apprenticeships (GAs) are designed for industry and you'll spend most of your time learning on the job but you'll also go to uni or college. You'll get a job, get paid and work towards a qualification at the same time.
You might want to consider a GA in Construction and the Built Environment.
Discover Graduate Apprenticeships on Apprenticeships.scot.
While you're studying an approved higher education qualification, you can apply for a student membership with CIAT. When you graduate, you'll be eligible to upgrade your membership to associate level.
Afterwards, you can undertake the MCIAT Professional and Occupational Performance Record (POP) or MCIAT Professional Assessment (equivalent to a Masters Degree). If you've completed a relevant approved or accredited qualification, you may be exempt from some elements of the POP.
Chartered members can run their own practice, which also needs to be registered with CIAT.
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