Architectural technicians and technologists perform the same duties --
they simply have different titles.
So what is the difference between architects and architectural technicians?
Architects hold a professional license. Architectural technicians do not (with
some exceptions). Also, architects focus on design questions. Architectural
technicians focus on technical questions.
Technicians and technologists commonly help to research and prepare drawings
for architects and engineers using special drafting software and hardware.
But architectural technicians do more than just sit before a computer and
draw blueprints.
They also research building codes, draw up contract agreements and test
building materials. They build models, inspect buildings, and if necessary,
help preserve them by redrawing their blueprints. And depending on the project
and firm, they may also have some input in design decisions.
Beth Globe is an architectural technologist intern. She says her employer
gives her ample room to make design decisions.
"It is really a team effort," she says. "Everybody works together. And
if you don't work together, the project doesn't work."
Architectural technicians and technologists work for private architecture
and construction firms, nonprofit organizations and all levels of government.
Some also work as private building inspectors and consultants.
Working hours for architectural technicians and technologists can vary.
Globe says that on most days, she works from 8 to 5. But on other occasions,
she has had to work evenings and weekends. "It really depends on the project's
scope and the deadline," she says.
There aren't many physical requirements for architectural technicians and
technologists. They work behind desks and in front of computers most of the
time.
This means that this career is accessible to people who suffer from some
types of physical disabilities. "The only difficulty they might run into is
when they have to go to a construction site," says Globe. "As far as drafting,
there should be no [problems] at all."