An Architectural Technician is a professional who plays a crucial role in the field of architecture. They work alongside architects and other design professionals to bring architectural projects to life. In this blog post, we will explore the primary responsibilities and the most in-demand hard and soft skills for Architectural Technicians.

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Main Responsibilities of an Architectural Technician

The following list describes the typical responsibilities of an Architectural Technician:

Acknowledge

Acknowledge Health and Safety environment through training and OH&S regulations.

Assist in

• Assist and facilitate in the permitting process.

• Assist in developing design concepts and space planning.

• Assist in developing project scope, plan, and services and during the contract process.

• Assist in development of CAD standards and build efficiencies into the plans.

• Assist in obtaining necessary permits and approvals from regulatory authorities.

• Assist in project coordination and communication with clients, contractors, and consultants.

• Assist in the evaluation and integration of sustainable design principles.

• Assist in the evaluation and selection of contractors and suppliers.

• Assist in the preparation of project specifications and cost estimates.

• Assist in the preparation of proposals and other marketing materials.

• Assist in the preparation of tender documents and contract administration.

• Assist in the selection and coordination of subcontractors and vendors.

• Assist landscape architects with contract administration.

• Assist project designers and project architects with materials selection and system research.

• Assist with 3D design presentations using SketchUp and other similar applications.

Assure

Assure HOK document standards are met and archives documents appropriately.

Build

Build models for client / project team review.

Collaborate with

• Collaborate with architects and designers to develop architectural plans.

• Collaborate with architects and engineers to ensure designs meet technical requirements and building codes.

• Collaborate with construction teams during the construction phase to address design-related issues.

• Collaborate with contractors and construction teams to address construction challenges.

Compile

• Compile data and perform elementary design computations.

• Compile project specifications.

Conduct

• Conduct feasibility studies and analyze site conditions for potential construction projects.

• Conduct post-construction evaluations to assess the performance of architectural designs.

• Conduct pre-design site visits and record technical information.

• Conduct quality control inspections to ensure adherence to design specifications.

• Conduct research on building materials, construction techniques, and building codes.

• Conduct research on new construction methodologies and innovative design approaches.

• Conduct site surveys and measurements to gather necessary data.

• Conduct site visits and surveys to gather necessary data for project development.

• Conduct site visits to correct or improve information shown in the master plans drawings.

Contribute to

Contribute to the development and improvement of design standards and procedures.

Control

Control project from start to finish for high quality, innovative and functional design.

Cooperate

Cooperate and liaise with construction professionals & trades.

Coordinate

• Coordinate and integrate various design disciplines into a cohesive set of documents.

• Coordinate and manage, builds Revit models and Autocad drawings.

• Coordinate BIM file exchange and organization of project milestone submittals.

• Coordinate with engineers and other professionals to integrate structural and mechanical systems into architectural designs.

• Coordinate with other professionals involved in the projects.

• Coordinate with regulatory authorities for necessary permits and approvals.

Create

• Create 2D and 3D architectural models using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

• Create accurate 2D and 3D models using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

• Create and manage CAD master plan Architectural drawings, and construction documentation.

• Create brochures for award submissions.

• Create new plans or updates to existing relative to needs identified to plan matrix's.

• Create sales centre drawings for new showhomes in advance of signed plans.

Develop

• Develop and carry out architectural designs.

• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, contractors, and consultants.

• Develop client's needs and put together design proposals, building's usage and environmental impact.

• Develop detailed construction documents and technical drawings.

• Develop detailed designs and construction documents.

• Develop solutions to technical and design problems following established standards.

Ensure

• Ensure compliance with building codes, regulations, and standards.

• Ensure current Building Codes are being accurately applied to all files.

• Ensure works are carried out to specific standards, building codes, guidelines and regulations.

Evaluate

Evaluate and recommend sustainable design strategies and green building practices.

Foster

Foster a commitment to external and internal client service.

Gather

Gather documentation and complete drawings for building permit applications.

Generate

Generate construction documentation, including plans, elevations, sections, and details.

Incorporate

Incorporate Integrated Sustainable Design solutions into projects.

Keep

Keep within budgets and timelines.

Maintain

• Maintain a comprehensive understanding of current industry trends and best practices.

• Maintain awareness of building codes, municipality changes and construction techniques.

Make

Make on site visits to check on project status and report on project.

Manage

• Manage and implement all Master design change bulletins.

• Manage and maintain project documentation, including drawings and specifications.

• Manage the setup, storage, achieve and maintenance of Master Plans.

Monitor

• Monitor project progress and budget to ensure timely completion and cost control.

• Monitor projects through the use of management platforms.

Participate in

• Participate in project meetings and provide technical expertise.

• Participate in Value Engineering of new designs.

Perform

• Perform building code and zoning analysis to ensure project compliance.

• Perform product research.

• Perform site visits and inspections to ensure compliance with design intent.

Prepare

• Prepare 2D and 3D presentation / design drawings.

• Prepare and maintain project documentation, including revisions and change orders.

• Prepare conceptual designs and graphics for presentation purposes.

• Prepare construction files for Site Superintendents.

• Prepare construction quotations based off designs and site visits.

• Prepare detailed architectural drawings based on design concepts.

• Prepare detailed drawings and specifications for construction projects.

• Prepare preliminary drawings, including plans, elevations, wall sections and details.

• Prepare presentations and visual aids to effectively communicate design concepts.

Produce

• Produce and present the material used to promote and visualize projects.

• Produce detailed AutoCAD & blueprints and make any necessary corrections.

• Produce material and finish schedules for interior and exterior components.

Provide

Provide technical support and guidance to junior staff members.

Read

Read the measurements of existing conditions and draw them up.

Research

Research and select appropriate materials, finishes, and construction techniques.

Resolve

Resolve technical issues and provide solutions during the construction phase.

Review

• Review and interpret architectural drawings and specifications.

• Review and revise architectural plans based on client feedback and project requirements.

• Review site plans for zoning and permit applications for OBC concerns.

Stay updated with

• Stay updated with advancements in architectural technology and software.

• Stay updated with industry trends, emerging technologies, and building materials.

Submit

Submit work according to deadlines.

Take

Take personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.

Understand

Understand flooding issues especially applicable to Canvey Island.

Update

• Update, maintain, identify needs in Master plan matrix's.

• Update (or create when necessary) brochures for sales and marketing departments.

Uphold

Uphold ethical standards and professional integrity in all architectural work.

Utilize

Utilize Building Information Modeling (BIM) software to enhance design coordination and efficiency.

Verify

Verify internal preliminary plans (NBC, municipal by-laws, architectural design).

Work with

• Work closely with design team and assists to complete projects on aggressive schedules.

• Work within a BIM enabled environment using 3D tools and technologies.

Most In-demand Hard Skills

The following list describes the most required technical skills of an Architectural Technician:

1. Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.) for drafting and modeling.

2. Knowledge of building information modeling (BIM) and its application in architectural design.

3. Familiarity with architectural rendering software (SketchUp, 3ds Max, etc.) for creating visual representations.

4. Understanding of construction techniques, materials, and building systems.

5. Ability to read and interpret architectural drawings, specifications, and construction documents.

6. Knowledge of building codes, regulations, and standards.

7. Skills in producing accurate and detailed technical drawings and documentation.

8. Experience in performing site surveys and measurements.

9. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for project documentation and communication.

10. Understanding of sustainability principles and green building practices.

11. Knowledge of structural and mechanical systems in buildings.

12. Ability to conduct research on architectural design trends and innovations.

13. Familiarity with project management methodologies and software.

14. Skills in cost estimation and quantity takeoffs.

15. Proficiency in graphic design software for creating presentation materials.

16. Understanding of accessibility standards and universal design principles.

17. Knowledge of energy-efficient design strategies and technologies.

18. Skills in 3D visualization and virtual reality (VR) applications in architecture.

19. Ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.

20. Familiarity with document control and project coordination software.

Most In-demand Soft Skills

The following list describes the most required soft skills of an Architectural Technician:

1. Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration and client interaction.

2. Strong attention to detail to ensure accuracy in design documentation.

3. Problem-solving abilities to address design challenges and find creative solutions.

4. Time management skills to meet project deadlines and prioritize tasks.

5. Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

6. Adaptability and flexibility to handle changes in project scope or requirements.

7. Critical thinking skills to evaluate design options and make informed decisions.

8. Strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

9. Customer service orientation to meet client needs and expectations.

10. Continuous learning mindset to stay up-to-date with industry advancements and enhance skills.

Conclusion

An Architectural Technician plays a vital role in the architectural design and construction process. They contribute to the creation of detailed drawings, assist in design development, and ensure compliance with building codes and regulations. To excel in this field, individuals need a combination of technical skills, such as proficiency in CAD software and knowledge of construction techniques, as well as essential soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and time management.