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Useful work experience for IT architects includes:

• work in a software development role
• computer systems management experience
• general business and project management experience.

Useful basic work experience includes:

• work in entry-level IT jobs such as information technology helpdesk/support technician
• on-the-job training through IT internships and graduate recruitment programmes
• hacking experience gained through study or hacking conferences.

IT architects may do some or all of the following:

Analyse business needs and recommend IT solutions

• analyse organisations' business needs and use of information technology
• provide detailed information about costs and benefits of various IT solutions
• recommend suitable solutions including systems, programs and hardware 
• create architectural plans which outline the structure of new applications.

Oversee the design, build and implementation of new applications

• oversee the development and building of new computing solutions
• oversee teams who test, review and fix any problems with new systems
• ensure that people understand how to use new systems, including developing training plans and manuals.

Information technology architects in demand

Information technology (IT) architects are in high demand due to:

• organisations rely on computer systems and networks to operate effectively, and need IT architects to plan their overall systems
• more organisations are moving their IT systems to cloud technology which requires IT architects.

Shortage of experienced IT architects

There are not enough IT architects to meet demand. Nearly two thirds of IT employers report skills shortages, and there aren't enough information technology (IT) trainees.

As a result, software engineer (IT architect) appears on Immigration New Zealand's long-term skill shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging skilled IT architects from overseas to work in New Zealand.

According to the Census, 14,298 information technology architects worked in New Zealand in 2018.

How to get your first IT job

Improve your chances of getting a job through:

• internships like Summer of Tech
• graduate programmes offered by IT companies
• mentoring programmes.

• Summer of Tech website - find out about their IT internship programme

Types of employers varied

IT architects work for medium to large organisations, including:

• companies that provide computer, database and network services to clients
• software and web development companies that produce film, games and animation
• marketing and advertising companies
• government departments.

About 8% of IT architects are self-employed.

IT Professionals NZ

0800 252 255 - info@itp.nz - www.itp.nz

NZ Tech

(09) 475 0204 - info@nztech.org.nz - www.nztech.org.nz

IT architects may progress to set up their own consultancy business, or move into roles such as chief information officer, information technology manager, or project manager.

• Information technology manager job information
• Project manager job information

IT architects need to be:

• able to lead others
• able to work through problems logically and methodically
• good at analysis
• creative and adaptable
• able to work well under pressure to meet deadlines
• skilled at oral and written communication, with good presentation skills.