How to Get a Job in Sustainable Architecture
Sustainable architecture is a discipline that places traditional construction methods under the lens of environmental consciousness. Commercial and residential spaces with green spaces, solar panels and natural lighting are examples of sustainable architecture. You can help conserve resources when you get a job in sustainable architecture.
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Instructions
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Research universities throughout the world that offer architectural studies with an emphasis on sustainable architecture. European universities and a small number of American schools offer 4-year degrees in sustainable architecture to meet the trend toward sustainability.
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Hone your knowledge of sustainable building techniques and language by writing for industry publications. A mixture of blog entries, academic articles and interviews with members of the architectural community will help you get the attention of interested employers.
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Make contact with architects and design firms specializing in space-efficient housing to find sustainable architecture positions. These firms hire architects and technicians to help keep buildings small while using local suppliers and developers to cut down on fuel costs.
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Apply for positions with design firms that focus on renovating old spaces with tools for energy savings. A few months working on a project involving the installation of solar panels for passive energy can help you get acquainted with methods of working around established spaces.
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Search for a job with a local construction company early in your career to develop vendor relationships for future projects. Your summer work with a home builder can give you insight into material recycling while you build your list of available contacts.
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Fill out applications and submit a resume for government positions focusing on sustainable development. Local and state governments have turned to architectural graduates to fill positions as inspectors on pilot projects for eco-friendly property developments.
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Offer your services as a sustainable architectural consultant to companies around the world. You will need foreign language skills and a jet setting attitude to get a job with an international organization looking to improve sustainable building practices in the developing world.
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Volunteer for home-building organizations during your college and post-graduate career to see building techniques in person. Organizations like Habitat for Humanity try to reuse and recycle materials to cut down on costs for participating companies (see Resources below).
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Tips & Warnings
Acquire knowledge of heating, ventilation and air condition (HVAC) through technical colleges in your community. One of the foundations of sustainable architecture is the development of ventilation systems that work on low amounts of energy. You can take night courses following college to pursue design work during the day.
