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You are here: Home › Careers › New Zealand Careers › Careers Descriptions › Building and Construction Careers › Architectural Technician

Architectural Technician

Architectural technicians interpret sketches and designs produced by an architect, architectural designer or client. They make working drawings, such as floor plans, elevations, sections and details, and associated documentation of buildings. These are used to obtain resource and building consents, and for pricing and construction purposes by builders.

 

Tasks & duties

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Architectural technicians may do some or all of the following:

  • study sketches and instructions
  • design and plan the layout and content of drawings
  • make detailed drawings of building structures for builders
  • make any necessary changes to the drawings
  • build models of the building
  • create their own designs
  • research building materials
  • manage projects and carry out site observations
  • interpret drawings on worksites
  • check that drawings comply with statutory and regulatory building requirements
  • check that drawings comply with manufacturer/supplier instructions
  • assist with consent processes
  • co-ordinate with other building professionals
  • deal with clients

 

Specialisations

Architectural technicians may specialise in working on certain types of structures such as large commercial buildings, subdivisions or residential housing. They may also choose to work as architectural designers, creating their own design plans, and often running their own businesses.

 

 

Skills & knowledge

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Architectural technicians need to have:

  • technical drawing skills
  • the ability to interpret drawings
  • knowledge of architecture, building methods and materials
  • knowledge of the New Zealand Building Code, the New Zealand Building Act, the Resource Management Act, local by-laws and town planning regulations
  • communication and listening skills
  • problem-solving skills
  • organisational skills
  • presentation skills

 

Entry requirements

To become an architectural technician you need to have a diploma in architectural draughting, architectural technology or architectural design.

 

Secondary education

To enter training, most training providers require a Sixth Form Certificate or 35 credits at Level 2 in NCEA achievement standards covering mathematics, English and science.

Other useful subjects include:

  • art and design
  • graphics
  • computer studies and technology
  • communications

 

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Architectural technicians may also attend industry seminars and workshops, or complete qualifications while working.

 

Registration

Architectural technicians can apply for a professional licence under the Licensed Building Practitioners scheme. The Department of Building and Housing recognises their professional competence at three levels:

  • Design 1 (houses)
  • Design 2 (complex commercial or residential buildings)
  • Design 3 (large or publicly important buildings)

 

Applicants will be assessed on their work history, professional references and qualifications. They will have an opportunity to present their design portfolios during a face-to-face assessment with the Licensing Board.

The licensing scheme is currently voluntary, but will become mandatory in November 2010 for those who want to lead design projects. 

 

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

 

Related courses

Architecture

 

For more information, please refer to Career Services.

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