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Architectural Technician

Kaihangarau Hoahoa Whare

Architectural technicians create drawings and make models of building structures, research construction materials, and assist with building consent processes.

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Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Useful subjects include maths, English, physics, digital technologies, design and visual communication (graphics), and construction and mechanical technologies.

Study fields

Study levels

  • Diploma
  • Up to NCEA Level 3

Useful experience

Useful experience for architectural technicians includes:

  • civil, electrical or mechanical engineering draughting work
  • work in the building construction industry
  • any practical building work
  • interior design work.

What you will do

Architectural technicians may do some or all of the following:

  • make detailed drawings and build models of building structures
  • interpret sketches and project instructions
  • research building materials
  • check that drawings comply with statutory and regulatory building requirements
  • assist with consent processes
  • co-ordinate with other building professionals and deal with clients.

Skills and knowledge

Architectural technicians need to have:

  • computer skills and knowledge of computer-aided design (CAD) draughting software packages
  • design skills
  • the ability to interpret drawings
  • knowledge of architecture, building methods and materials
  • knowledge of the New Zealand Building Code, New Zealand Building Act, Resource Management Act, local by-laws and town planning regulations.
Pay

Architectural technicians usually earn

$70K-$125K

per year

Job opportunities
Average
Chances of getting a job as an architectural technician are average for graduates, but good for those with experience.
Length of training
2
years of training required.

Industry

Architecture, Technical Design and Mapping

Architectural technicians create drawings and make models of building structures, research construction materials, and assist with building consent processes.

Similar jobs in this industry

Entry requirements

To become an architectural technician you need to have the minimum qualification of a New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology (Level 6).

To become an architectural designer you must also be a licensed building practitioner. 

Chances of getting a job

Strong demand for experienced architectural technicians

There is strong demand for experienced architectural technicians due to growth in the number of construction and infrastructure projects in New Zealand. However, for graduates there is high competition for a small number of roles.

Opportunities for employment are highest in Auckland, with fewer opportunities in regional centres.

This role can be affected by economic conditions. A downturn in the economy can lower demand for architectural technicians.

According to the Census, 2,505 architectural technicians worked in New Zealand in 2018.

Work experience and networking important

Architectural technician students should gain as much work experience as possible by taking up internships and other opportunities. Having a portfolio of work increases your chances of securing a job.

It is also important to widen your networks by attending industry functions and conferences.

Small range of employers

Architectural technicians usually work for:

  • architecture practices
  • architectural design companies
  • construction companies.

Some architectural technicians are self-employed and work on contract to architectural companies or individuals.

Find out more about training

Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
0800 60 60 50 - licensing@lbp.govt.nz - www.lbp.govt.nz

Progression and specialisations

Architectural technicians may progress to lead teams, start their own business or move into construction management.

With further training, architectural technicians may progress to become architects.

Architectural technicians may specialise in certain types of structures such as:

  • large commercial buildings
  • subdivisions
  • residential housing.

Architectural technicians can specialise in a number of roles, including:

Architectural Designer
Architectural designers are licensed building practitioners who create their own design plans and full working drawings.

Working conditions

Architectural technicians:

  • usually work regular hours, but may be required to work overtime to meet deadlines
  • typically spend most of their time working in offices, but may visit building sites.

Useful personal qualities

Architectural technicians need to be:

  • accurate, with an eye for detail
  • well organised, patient and reliable
  • creative, yet practical 
  • able to work well under pressure
  • skilled in communication and listening
  • customer focused
  • good at problem solving, and able to make good judgements.

Industry

Architecture, Technical Design and Mapping

Architectural technicians create drawings and make models of building structures, research construction materials, and assist with building consent processes.

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