What Is a Senior Architect and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Does a Senior Architect Do?
As a senior architect, your responsibilities are to oversee the plan for a construction project at an architectural firm from inception to completion. To accomplish this, you use CAD software, build models, iterate designs based on suggestions or customer requirements, and ensure the final plan complies with relevant building codes and other legislation (particularly the Americans with Disabilities Act, which imposes specific requirements on building designs). Your duties also include supporting a firm's marketing efforts, creating presentation materials, providing input on finishing and furniture choices, guiding builders, and making suggestions for the use of space. A senior architect position differs from a senior technology architect, which involves working with technology-building software and programming languages.
How Can I Become a Senior Architect?
The primary qualifications to become a senior architect include at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture, state licensing or certification, and extensive experience as an architect. However, employers tend to prefer candidates with a master’s degree for this senior position. You also need an understanding of how to market and win projects, familiarity with reading and interpreting architectural plans, the ability to create complete plans, and experience as a supervisor. Some firms require specialized knowledge, such as familiarity with the unique needs of aviation or transportation buildings. Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills are also important.
Senior Architect Job Description Sample
With this Senior Architect job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Senior Architect role.
Job Summary
We are seeking a talented, passionate individual to join our company as a Senior Architect. As part of our team, you develop, design, and implement start-to-finish project roadmaps and high-level strategy. You collaborate closely with client stakeholders and SMEs to develop comprehensive architectural solutions, determining everything from site locations to projected timelines. This is a senior-level position, and our ideal candidate has considerable professional experience in commercial and residential design, including a proven record of leadership and a portfolio of successful projects.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Collaborate with client stakeholders and leadership to determine architectural and design needs
- Oversee teams of architects and designers to produce comprehensive architectural strategy solving for client needs and restrictions
- Create and present extensive reports to internal and external teams, outlining progress, project needs, and goal markers
- Ensure all projects adhere to local and federal building codes and regulations
Requirements and Qualifications
- A master's degree or higher in architecture or a related design discipline (preferred)
- 10 years of experience as a professional architect, with proven leadership ability and a portfolio of successful projects
- Expert proficiency with drafting software tools
- Strong organizational and communication skills
