Architectural Technician Job Description
Architectural technicians are also known as architectural draftspersons. They fulfill an important role in the coordination and documentation of a building project, and they work in an architectural office alongside architects and project managers. Although they are not directly involved with the design aspects of a project, architectural technicians work to ensure a project is comprehensively documented for construction.
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About
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Architectural technicians are principally involved in the documentation of a building project. The design is carried out by an architect, and then it is given to an architectural technician to draw up and develop into a set of construction drawings. Technicians report to a senior architect or project manager, and they often do not have direct contact with clients. They may share the responsibility of coordinating the work of consultants, such as engineers, with the architect.
Tools
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The main tools that architectural technicians use are computer-aided drafting programs, also known as CAD, or building information modeling programs, also known as BIM packages. Architectural technicians are expected to be knowledgeable and proficient in the drafting program that their office uses. In the past, architectural technicians worked on drafting tables, drawing by hand. Hand drafting has now been replaced by computer drafting in all but small architectural practices.
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Training
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The education of an architectural technician is typically a degree or diploma in architecture or architectural drafting. Technicians also may be former builders or have a construction background, which helps in their understanding of how to put a set of building drawings together. The most important specific training for architectural technicians is hands-on experience working in an architectural office.
Knowledge
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Architectural technicians are expected to have an understanding and appreciation for architectural design, even though they are not designers. They interpret an architect's design intent into a construction set of drawings and specifications, so they must possess a thorough knowledge of building code requirements and current construction practices. They undertake research into materials, detailing and technical systems, then incorporate that information into the set of drawings.
Experience
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Architectural technicians can become proficient in their role with a few years of work experience. Experienced architectural technicians, with the right educational credentials, can work their way into a more senior management role, such as project manager, or become a licensed architect.
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