Entry-Level Positions For Aspiring Architects
Entry-level architecture positions, such as junior designer roles, are readily available for undergraduates proficient in Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs like Revit, which Laurie calls "the industry standard." Strong CAD skills, particularly in Revit, are highly valued and significantly increase job prospects for new graduates, allowing them to contribute immediately to tasks such as "red lining," or marking up drawings for revisions.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD), Entry-Level Jobs, Architectural Design, Revit Software, Industry Standards
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Laurie Friedman
Architect
AIA Architect
University of California, Los Angeles and University of Illinois, Champaign/Urbana
Massachusetts Institute of Technology - Master of Architecture
Architecture, Interior Design, Fine Arts, Music
Architecture, Construction & Design, Consulting & Related Professional Services
Creative
Honors Student, Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans
Video Highlights
1. Entry-level positions such as junior designers are available for undergraduate students.
2. Proficiency in CAD programs like Revit, AutoCAD, and SketchUp is highly valuable and in demand by firms.
3. Architectural schools' increasing focus on computer-aided design equips students with in-depth knowledge and skills, making them readily employable.
Transcript
What entry-level positions are there in this field that an undergraduate college student might consider?
There are positions for junior designers, especially for draftsmen who know certain computer-aided design programs. Revit is my CAD program of choice, but there's also AutoCAD and SketchUp.
If you're an undergrad, and most undergraduate architecture schools offer or require CAD, you'll be well-equipped to enter a firm. Many older professionals aren't proficient in these programs, even though they've become industry standards.
I highly encourage you to learn Revit. While I admit I'm recommending it because I teach it, it has become the industry standard. You can use CAD for tasks like redlining, where someone marks up drawings for changes, and then those changes are made.
I feel that schools are integrating CAD well. It cuts down the time needed to present drawings and projects. Because of this, students are learning more in-depth knowledge crucial for the profession after graduation.
Even a junior designer position is readily available. If you have good CAD skills, you're pretty much set and will be in demand.