Architecture Pays Too Little for What the Job Demands
Architects across experience levels express dissatisfaction with the profession, citing issues like poor work-life balance, low pay, limited flexibility, and a lack of career growth. Many question their career choice and seek alternatives that offer a better quality of life and more fulfilling work. The profession's demanding nature and competitive job market contribute to these concerns.
SOURCES (60)
“I am trying to get an understanding on what I should focus on learning more about as an architect and I feel like residential is where the most work is at. Is that true ? You work more single homes, multi-unit, apartments, retail? submitted by…”
“Recently been noticing a lot of openings for Success Architects at Salesforce. Got contacted by a recruiter and I’m thinking of going ahead with the interview. She mentioned it’s an advisory role within Customer Success. What do they actually do? And is it worth it? submitted by /u/yourhighness999 [link] [comments]”
“I'm a junior architect working in a small architecture firm consisting of the firm owner (a senior architect), two junior architects (including myself), and a Civil Engineering Technologist. We're currently involved in a large embassy project comprising the complete construction of several buildings, from earthworks to interior finishes. Our contract covers two main phases: 1. Design Review :We are reviewing a complete set of construction documents originally produced by another architec”
“Looking for some honest advice from people in architecture, especially in the Boston area. I started as a Designer III at an architecture firm in Roxbury. At my 3 month review, I was told I wasn’t meeting the expectations of the role and that I came across as “overconfident.” The part that gets me is that I never received any formal onboarding or training. I was paired with an intern on my first project (which i trained lol), we met every deadline, and I wasn’t given any meaningful feedback unti”
“I'm looking for some honest advice from people who have owned architecture firms. About five years ago I left a stable job after working for a boss whose management style completely burned me out. I quit without a single client lined up and started my own practice. I should note I was able to do so because I have no debt, and my partner was/is willing to financially support us. The first year I brought in around $20k. The second year was around $50k. Last year was my best year, bringing in r”
“I just graduated with a BSA in Louisiana and I’m trying to find an entry-level position anywhere as an Architectural Designer in the United States, $40k+ salary. Something to pay the bills and allow me to see a new city. I come with 1 year of experience in an Architect’s office and good knowledge of Revit, Rhino, Enscape, Lumion, Twinmotion, BlueBeam. I want to work for a bit before going back and getting my MArch. This is all listed well in my resume. Why can I not get a single interview back?”
“Sorta. But the significant factor isn't that it's architecture, it's what it's possible to learn being in that field without doing your own learnings vs? Being in a job where you'll learn more because you're surrounded by folks who know more”
“Hypothetically if you got an entry level job in an architecture firm instead of something more tech or tech adjacent, would that be bad? submitted by /u/AdObjective5502 [link] [comments]”
“After years spent in residential practice in various firms, I decided to work with a local residential builder instead and go out on my own. I do not market myself as an architect, because while I have completed all my hours with NCARB, I have not earned my license. I market myself as a project designer and am very careful about this detail. I registered as an LLC, am now fully insured, and am practicing on the east coast (United States). I refer clients to my builder, and he refers clients to m”
“Hey all, architectural draftsman here, in Pennsylvania. It's not my calling, but it's what I've fallen into and what I've gotten good at. Been working in Archicad for the past decade, after having largely taught myself the software (a wonderful architect took me under her wing as an apprentice, and taught me everything else). To quickly elucidate my point: Archicad has a built-in programming language called GDL (rooted in BASIC) for creating your own parametric objects. I spent m”
“Hi, have any architects here who have moved to Goa or to a city that isn’t very mainstream? How has your experience been? Did you start your own practice, or did you continue working with someone else? I am not particularly fond of city life, but I am also unsure about where I could move. I’d love to hear about your experiences and any advice you might have. Any sort of guidance would be greatly appreciated. submitted by /u/Low-Avocado4487 [link] [comments]”
“Hi everyone! I’m an architectural designer who recently completed my master’s in the US. I’m planning to apply for an O-1B visa next year and am looking to collaborate with others on architecture/design competitions, research, publications, or award-worthy projects. If you’re on a similar path or interested in building strong work together, I’d love to connect. Feel free to comment or DM! submitted by /u/Substantial_Dot8203 [link] [comments]”
“Looking to go into Architecture through a M.arch program. everyone complains about the pay. Is it that bad? Anyone do freelance work? submitted by /u/imjustaguy77 [link] [comments]”
“I graduated in December last year with a bachelor of design (architecture). I've been searching for a job in the industry a good while before that too, either I'm unlucky or I'm doing something completely wrong. I'm based outside of Sydney, and I've discovered that 'junior' positions require like 3 years of prior experience, otherwise most won't look at you. I did most of my degree during COVID so there was no real internship, traineeship or placement opportunitie”
“The only time I got emails from them was to remind me my dues needed to be paid soon. I dropped my membership 8 years ago and it hasn’t changed a thing in my practice. submitted by /u/SleeplessArchitect [link] [comments]”
“Hi everyone :) I am fairly new to the industry; I recently graduated with a BS in architecture and have been applying to any and all jobs really. It has been extremely difficult to get any leads in anything, however, I recently applied for an assistant project manager position at a construction company without thinking too much about it and the company actually got back to me for an initial interview. Now, I know that this might not mean much but I was just really surprised they got back to me a”
“Here is a recent email I received from LinkedIn regarding Architect jobs in my area. Isn’t being an architect a licensed profession? and isn’t it illegal to call yourself a profession without having said license ? Similar to a doctor or lawyer? If not why don’t interns and unlicensed designers just call themselves architects then? I would think this is what the AIA would have handled. Doesn’t it exist to protect the profession of architects. That should begin with the term Architect and what it”
“Hi everyone, I’m not usually someone who asks for help publicly, but I’m at the point where I feel I have to. I’m a BA (Hons) Architecture graduate (2:1) from Northumbria University , based in Leeds, UK , and for the past several months I’ve been trying to secure a Part 1 Architectural Assistant position. Unfortunately, despite putting everything I have into the search, I’m still unemployed. I’ve now submitted well over 100 applications across the UK. I’ve applied to practices of every size—from”
“Hi everyone, I'm a female architect with a Master's degree in Architecture. I moved to the UK a couple of years ago and have been struggling to find a role because most employers require UK experience. I haven't completed my RIBA Parts yet, but I'm highly proficient in AutoCAD and Revit. I'm currently looking for Architectural Technician roles and would also be grateful for any opportunities to gain UK experience, including unpaid work experience, job shadowing, or voluntary”
“Hi everyone, I’m feeling really torn about what my next step should be, and I’d love to hear from people who have actually gone through something similar. I’m a 26 F recently licensed architect here in the Philippines. I have about two years worth of professional experience, mainly in architectural design and drafting as well as new technologies in architecture such as AI. My long-term dream is to have at least an international experience in the field and I also would want a master’s degree abro”
“Hello! Are there any architects here in the Philippines who have transitioned to online work that’s no longer directly related to architecture? If so, what’s your current niche, and where did you find your online job? I’m also interested in roles where I can still use my architectural skills, even if they’re not traditional architecture jobs. I’d really appreciate your recommendations and experiences. Thank you! (Currently contemplating) submitted by /u/sahm_arphen0921 [link] [”
“Hi everyone. I currently have 4 years of experience coming from the healthcare architecture sector and found an opportunity to be in the VDC/BIM coordinator role for data centers or advanced manufacturing at a bigger firm (Jacobs). I was wondering if you have any advice I should prep for in my upcoming final interview (a panel of 3). I already had an initial introductory call with the hiring manager. I also would like to hear thoughts from those that may have worked this role or project type bef”
“Hi everyone, I’m a 29-year-old architect based in Brazil, and I’d appreciate some advice from people who understand the international architecture job market or have followed a similar path. I have a degree in Architecture and Urbanism, I’m fluent in English, and I lived in the United States for a year during high school. I’m interested in understanding how realistic it is to work remotely for an architecture, BIM, or design company based in another country while continuing to live in Brazil. My”
“What hobbies do you have—either artistic or otherwise—you have? Do you feel that your architectural background is a benefit to it? submitted by /u/littleboyblue564 [link] [comments]”
“Hi there fellow architects, I am trying to connect with people who have worked for Gensler or Perkins and Will, I want to work in one of these two and it would mean alot if someone can comment on my application. submitted by /u/Critical-Fun2738 [link] [comments]”
“Hi everyone, I'm an architect from Latin America, and after recently leaving my job, I've been thinking a lot about what I want my next step to be. It got me wondering how realistic it actually is to work remotely for a US architecture firm while living in Latin America. Here, architecture is still a very local profession. Most people work for local firms, and I almost never see remote opportunities with US studios, even though so much of our work is already digital. The only example I p”
“Hi! asking for reviews. D.C. Tiburcio Builders Inc. located in Antipolo PH. Architectural Apprentice position. Is this company good po? please help I have an interview tomorrow. submitted by /u/Shanghaimo [link] [comments]”
“I am a 28 year old architect (6 months post part III) looking for a move but cannot seem to make London make financial sense. Despite London having the bulk of UK jobs, any position that allows you to save just seems like a unicorn so I am not sure if London is even worth considering on an early career salary. Would you recommend it? submitted by /u/Silverbin123 [link] [comments]”
“We often hear that “this is just how architectural firms in Pakistan operate.” Maybe it’s time we stop normalizing unprofessional hiring practices and start expecting better. A friend of mine interviewed for the position of Marketing & Growth Manager at Banjaiga, and the experience raises some important questions about professionalism in recruitment. The first screening interview lasted over 45 minutes and covered extensive questions, including personal ones. She was asked whether she would”
“I’m a 26-year-old architect from India with a \*\*B.Arch\*\* and \*\*M.Arch (Environmental Design)\*\*, along with nearly \*\*5 years of experience\*\* in architecture and interior design firms. I’m currently working as an Interior Designer with a package of \*\*₹6 LPA\*\*. While I enjoy working in the design industry, I’m finding it difficult to manage my expenses on my current salary. I’m also looking for a role that offers better work-life balance, higher earning potential, and clear career g”
“Last night I hung out with two close friends from college, and we ended up talking about salary. We’re all 30 and went to the same design school in NYC, but our salaries are very different. One friend studied industrial design and has been working for a multibillion-dollar lifestyle brand designing home/tabletop goods since 2019. He was recently promoted to senior designer and makes around $140k . Another friend studied communication/graphic design, freelanced for a while, and now works as a des”
“On indeed im seeing pretty decent pay for carpenters with experience. Thinking about trying to build a career in it. In my 20's doing labourer work but want to specialise a skill and I find carpentry the most interesting submitted by /u/GeneralSafety8092 [link] [comments]”
“Hi everyone! I’m currently completing my architectural internship in Canada, but I’m also pursuing NCARB certification because I’d like to keep the option open of eventually moving to the United States or even Australia. My thinking is that having NCARB certification may make it easier to find opportunities internationally. Has anyone here completed their internship in Canada and then moved to the U.S. to work as an architect? I’d love to hear about your experience. How difficult was it to find”
“Hello everyone, I’m an architect currently working in Dubai, and after several years here, I’m seriously considering moving to another country and looking for a new opportunity. The reason is not only about salary, but also about long-term career growth and finding a place where experience and skills are truly valued. The architecture market in Dubai has become very competitive, and many experienced architects are finding it difficult to get opportunities that match their responsibilities and le”
“Hi all. I’m sure this gets asked a lot around here. I’m a licensed architect in New York City with about 7/8 years experience. I’ve led a project or two here in New YorkC and am pretty Revit fluent (parametric families, project setup, etc.) as well as being able to hold my own doing visualization, rhino modeling, writing and client commation, coordination, CA, etc. All that is to say that I think I can bring some value wherever I go. Is there any sort of demand anywhere in Paris, or maybe London”
“Hi, architect graduate since 2024 looking to transition into game/animation industry. Came here to get some insights from people within these industries about whats currently relevant professionally and which fields/niches/roles seem to be having better prospects these days so I can structure my portfolio content. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ My background if you feel like reading it: So, been drawing ever since i was 5, got into trad”
“I’m seriously thinking about leaving architecture. I spent 7 years in school, earned a Master of Architecture, and have about 2 years of experience as an intern and architectural designer. Yet I’m still struggling to land what’s supposed to be an entry-level position. I’m exhausted. I have bills to pay and people who depend on me, and I can’t keep waiting for a breakthrough that may never come. I’m not trying to bash the profession, but this has been my reality. Entry-level jobs shouldn’t requir”
“I'm an architecture grad that lives in the DFW area of Texas. I have had a hard time getting experience. Trying to get an internship is hard, many of the firms aren't responding. Any suggestions on how to gain experience? I don't want to have a degree and not have any way of using it or even knowing how to. submitted by /u/No-Click-2636 [link] [comments]”
“Who was working construction then got tired of it & switched to a new field? What do you do & what pays a decent amount? submitted by /u/Beautiful_Equal293 [link] [comments]”
“I'm an Australian Graduate Architect with a Master of Architecture and around 9 years' experience, and about to get registered. Lately I've been questioning whether architecture is worth it long-term. I enjoy solving problems and coordinating projects, but I'm struggling with the amount of responsibility compared to the salary. On any given project I'm expected to understand or coordinate structural, civil, hydraulic, mechanical, electrical, contracts, EOTs, variations, consu”
“Hey, I'm curious, how can an architect transition into facade engineering? What skills or qualifications are usually required for companies to hire someone with an architecture background? And how can someone develop those skills or gain those qualifications? submitted by /u/Powerful_Brain6194 [link] [comments]”
“There’s always something wrong or not good enough… when I wanted to get my first ever architecture job, i got rejected so many times and they said you don’t have experience (?) when I wanted to change my first job because I was called colour blind, etc, i got rejected and they said you don’t have experience with Revit because I worked with vectorworks in my first job when I wanted to change my province/state because I was tired of cold weather, I got rejected and they said you don’t have experie”
“#revit #bim #linkedin #learn #coordination # architect submitted by /u/Loose_Pay3401 [link] [comments]”
“Does anyone feel disappointed and discouraged in this profession? I am a graduate architect in Brazil pursuing transferring my diploma in Canada so I can be an architect here. I took a different path and decided to take the NCARB instead of the EXAC so one day I could potentially work in the United States or Australia. But I am so tired. I had to go back to being an intern in Canada which meant I had to go to the bottom of the food chain. For the first 2 years of internship I felt okay with it b”
“Hey everyone, I’m 24 and have about 3.5 years of experience in architecture. I started working while still a student on international sports and entertainment and hospitality projects full time (yep was such a grind) in NYC, and now I’m doing urban design and high-rise work in the South. I’m currently at a well-known firm and making extremely decent money for my age. On paper it looks good, but I’m struggling a lot with how things are managed. I’m often left running projects with very little dir”
“Probably been asked a thousand times but how hard would it really be? How many high quality projects on a portfolio would be necessary to land an internship or entry level role and how many applications actually get thrown out if it doesn't have a bachelors. I'm not looking for FAANG or anything too high paying, I'd easily accept 40k-60k to get my foot in the door. Any advice or personal anecdote would be greatly appreciated! If not cs I'm open to other career paths too if anyone”
“I'm genuinely curious because I don't understand how the industry has accepted this as the norm. Fresh architecture graduates in places like Penang are often offered around RM2.3k–RM2.4k, and even RM3k is considered a decent starting salary in many firms. After spending years studying architecture, how is that enough to repay student loans, save for a house, or even keep up with today's cost of living? What confuses me even more is that architecture is a licensed profession with a hu”
“You are right, but physical workers like builder , contructors, designer Cant sit at home for their wor, they need to be always present physically toet their work done. Architectural engineering also dont have an option to work remotely. So even if we ever think of getting everything remotely if cant be possible. Well not now until robot comes lol”
“When you start you get the boring work that nobody wants. Eventually you get to architect and it gets better but when working corporate it can take years to get the opportunity.”
“Sometimes you get to play with CSS and those are fun days. Architecture is it's own art though. Design is art if it works as intended.”
“It’s been 3 years now I can’t find a job not even in a field related to architecture or construction job. I live in Sweden and it’s extremely difficult , I speak the language fluently but still not getting anywhere. I have plenty of experience from my time in the UK working in London and this is also where all my connections were. I am so tired of not being able to get a job I’m not sure what to do anymore. regret* submitted by /u/Quiet-Report4554 [link] [comments]”
“I'm in my late 30s and just entered the construction industry as an estimating coordinator. Previous experience is not related to construction at all, so I'm fresh. I ask a ton of questions, and my boss (senior estimator) is really helpful and wants me to grow and succeed. I've always wanted to get my foot in the door, the company is great, and I love this job. It's the dream situation for me. I'm interested in becoming a PE and then possibly an estimator. That said, I'd”