Architecture & Building Careers

Work Environment | Skills | Knowledge | Education | Career Prospect


Architecture and Building Constructions Careers

Architecture and building constructions careers are about designing and building things. Architects design buildings, while construction workers build them. Architects create plans and designs for buildings, while construction workers build these plans and designs into reality. Architects and construction professionals design buildings and infrastructure, from small homes to large commercial complexes.

CareerAnnual SalaryGeneral EducationNo. of JobsWork Arrangements
Architects, Except Naval$79,380Bachelor’s Degree117,830On-Site, Hybrid
Architectural and Engineering Managers$152,350Bachelor’s Degree187,100On-Site, Hybrid
Brickmasons, Blockmasons, and Stonemasons$56,950Vocational Studies64,950On-Site
Carpenters$48,260Vocational Studies668,060On-Site
Carpet, Floor, and Tile Installers and Finishers$47,310Vocational Studies83,600On-Site
Cement Masons, Concrete Finishers, and Terrazzo Workers$47,360Vocational Studies189,240On-Site
Civil Engineers$88,050Bachelor’s Degree304,310On-Site, Hybrid
Construction and Building Inspectors$61,640Bachelor’s Degree117,830On-Site
Construction Equipment Operators$48,290Vocational Studies452,780On-Site
Construction Laborers$37,770Vocational Studies968,760On-Site
Construction Managers$98,890Bachelor’s Degree284,750On-Site, Hybrid
Derrick, Rotary Drill, and Service Unit Operators, Oil and Gas$48,740Vocational Studies51,910On-Site
Drafters$60,290Associate’s Degree185,200On-Site, Hybrid
Drywall Installers, Ceiling Tile Installers, and Tapers$48,350Vocational Studies111,650On-Site
Electricians$60,040Diploma650,580On-Site
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters$60,690Bachelor’s Degree387,330On-Site, Hybrid
Glaziers$47,180Vocational Studies52,700On-Site
Highway Maintenance Workers$45,880Vocational Studies141,150On-Site
Industrial Engineers, Including Health and Safety$95,300Bachelor’s Degree316,820On-Site, Hybrid
Insulation Workers$46,760Vocational Studies58,370On-Site
Landscaping Worker$41,500Vocational Studies649,131On-Site
Painters and Paperhangers$45,630Vocational Studies216,560On-Site
Pipelayers, Plumbers, Pipefitters, and Steamfitters$59,310Vocational Studies450,940On-Site
Roofers$47,110Vocational Studies129,890On-Site
Sheet Metal Workers$53,440Vocational Studies122,630On-Site
Structural Iron and Steel Workers$58,550Vocational Studies68,620On-Site
Surface Mining Machine Operators and Earth Drillers$47,370Vocational Studies51,520On-Site
Surveying and Mapping Technicians$46,910Bachelor’s Degree56,070On-Site, Hybrid
Surveyors, Cartographers, and Photogrammetrists$61,950Associate’s Degree59,000On-Site, Hybrid
Careers in Architecture and Construction

Sample Job Titles

Architect, Construction Manager, Civil Engineer, Interior Designer, Urban Planner, Structural Engineer, Building Inspector, Construction Estimator, Landscape Architect, Project Manager

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Work Environment

  • Architects often work in offices, collaborating with clients, drafting plans, and using design software.
  • Construction professionals can work outdoors at construction sites, managing projects, overseeing workers, and ensuring safety compliance.
  • Collaboration between architects and construction workers is common, requiring effective communication and coordination.
  • The work environment can range from on-site construction zones to indoor design studios.

Soft Skills Requirements

  • Communication: Architects and construction professionals need strong communication skills to convey design ideas, project details, and collaborate with clients and teams.
  • Problem Solving: Both fields involve addressing challenges, whether in designing innovative structures or overcoming construction hurdles.
  • Creativity: Architects contribute creative solutions to design challenges, while construction professionals find innovative ways to execute plans.
  • Attention to Detail: Precision is crucial in architectural designs and construction execution to ensure safety and quality.

Knowledge Requirements

  • Architectural Design: Understanding principles of design, aesthetics, and functionality for creating building plans.
  • Construction Techniques: Knowledge of construction materials, methods, and safety protocols for effective project management.
  • Engineering Concepts: Structural engineers require a deep understanding of engineering principles for building stability and safety.
  • Building Codes and Regulations: Adhering to local building codes and regulations is essential for both architects and construction professionals.

Education Requirements

  • Architects: Typically require a professional degree in architecture (bachelor’s or master’s) and licensure.
  • Construction Professionals: Varied educational paths, from trade certifications and associate degrees to bachelor’s degrees in construction management or related fields.
  • Specialized Roles: Advanced positions may require additional certifications, master’s degrees, or specialized training.

Career Prospect

  • Diverse Opportunities: Architecture and construction offer a broad range of career paths, catering to individuals with varied interests and skills.
  • Industry Growth: The demand for innovative designs and infrastructure development contributes to a positive career outlook in both fields.
  • Global Impact: Architects and construction professionals play a crucial role in shaping the built environment globally.
  • Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Many professionals in architecture and construction pursue entrepreneurial ventures, establishing their own firms or consultancy services.

Sources of References

Career data was created with the following resources, links to non-hqhire sites are provided for your convenience and do not constitute an endorsement.

  • HQHIRE Work Arrangement and Satisfaction Survey Study (2021 – 2024)
  • U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
  • U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
  • United States Census Bureau (CENSUS)
  • Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD)
  • Pew Research Center (PRC)

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