Job profile
Architect (m/f/d)
Architect: Salary, opportunities, training and co.
Architects take care of the holistic planning and supervision of a construction project, both for private residential projects and in urban development or commercial real estate. They work in architectural firms, public offices or as freelance architects. Their tasks cover a wide range of topics, such as the technical, economic and aesthetic planning of buildings. This applies not only to new construction projects, but also to the renovation and redesign of older or dilapidated houses and buildings.
Architects work in a wide range of fields, which they deal with to varying degrees depending on their specialization. These include, for example, project management and the coordination of all parties involved, the planning phase including all approvals, budgeting and implementation planning, as well as construction management and cost control. Due to this multitude of tasks, different departments in architectural offices often take care of different specializations. Most architects work in building construction, which refers to all construction projects above ground.
What is an architect anyway, how do you gain a foothold in this professional field and what does an architect earn? We address these and many other questions in this job profile.
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Architect salary: A comprehensive overview
The average salary of an architect in Austria is €45,100 gross per year. However, many different factors play an important role in the salary level, such as: professional experience, highest level of education and the size, type and location of the workplace.
Representatives of this profession earn the least in planning and architectural offices, while the highest salaries are paid in the public sector.
Basically, the earnings of an architect can be described as above average and will remain stable, as well-trained specialists are in high demand.
Starting salary as an architect: What newcomers can expect
The starting salary for architects in Austria is between €2,320 and €2,720 according to the collective agreement. The usual influencing factors, such as place of work, employment relationship and gender, are also noticeable here
Salary development with experience: Senior Architect Salary
Architects who already have a few years of professional experience earn an average of around €43,000. After around 15 years on the job, senior architects increase to an average of €62,500. In addition, there are usually additional benefits such as Christmas bonuses, capital-forming benefits or vacation pay. Top earners in this industry even receive a salary of €70,000 per year.
The diverse architectural tasks and activities in detail
The tasks of architects cover a wide range of areas, such as the functional, design, technical, social and economic aspects of a building. Therefore, the tasks of architects are diverse and highly dependent on the construction project. The central activities are summarized here:
- Planning from design to detailed planning: Architects create the overall design for the building and draw implementation plans and details for connections or wall structures.
- Advice and clarification: As an architect, you clarify building law issues, point out important circumstances and advise on cost issues, for example (clarify client wishes and service requirements, carry out site analysis and feasibility studies).
- Coordination with stakeholders: The architect coordinates with other stakeholders, e.g. the building authority, and represents the interests of those responsible for the construction and is the contact person for all those involved in the construction.
- Construction supervision and quality control: Depending on the assignment, the construction phase must be monitored and continuous cost and quality controls must be carried out (land use planning, development planning, monument protection).
- Project acquisition: (Self-employed) architects take part in tenders and apply for construction projects. At Hays, however, we are happy to support you with project acquisition!
The four disciplines of architecture:
structural to civil engineeringBasically, the tasks of architects also differ according to the field in which they specialize.
The four fields of architecture are divided into structural engineering, interior design, landscape architecture and urban planning.
- Building construction: Building construction architects design and plan buildings such as residential buildings, office buildings, schools and hospitals. They take into account aspects such as functionality, aesthetics and sustainability.
- Interior design: Interior designers come into play when designing interiors. They consider furniture, lighting, colors and materials to create harmonious and functional spaces.
- Landscape architecture: Landscape architects design outdoor spaces such as parks, gardens, squares and green spaces. In doing so, they take ecological, aesthetic and social aspects into account to create attractive and sustainable landscapes.
- Urban planning: Urban planners are responsible for the spatial development of cities and municipalities. They have to take transport planning, infrastructure, residential areas and public spaces into account.
Architecture specialization Interior Architecture:
Design of interiors
In contrast to the other disciplines, interior designers take care of the design of interior spaces. In doing so, they usually work very closely with the future occupants of these spaces. The requirements and skills needed are very similar to those of an architect, but it is advisable to choose the specific interior design degree program for a career as an interior designer.
As an interior designer, you combine aesthetics, functionality and technical aspects to create inspiring and harmonious spaces. Here are some important special features:
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Holistic approach: In interior design, you consider the room as a whole. You consider not only the furniture and decoration, but also the structure, lighting, acoustics and atmosphere. The aim is to design a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
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Individuality: Every room and every client is unique. Innenarchitekt:innen adapt their designs to the specific needs, taste and personality of the client. Tailor-made solutions are created that bring the room to life.
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Knowledge of materials: Interior designers need to be familiar with a variety of materials, be it wood, metal, textiles or plastics. The choice of the right materials influences the durability, aesthetics and functionality of the space.
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Space planning: They analyze the space to find the best room layout. They take into account traffic flows, usage zones and the optimal placement of furniture and furnishings.
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Color and lighting design: The choice of colors and the right lighting are decisive for the mood of a room. Interior designers know how to combine colors harmoniously and use light effectively.
How do you become an architect?
– Training, studies & career pathAs a prospective architect, you will design people's living space and spatial environment. Your job is to design, plan and implement buildings. This is not only about creativity and aesthetics, but also about analytical thinking, constructive solutions and economic action – this knowledge must be learned.
"Architect" is a protected term in Austria that requires membership in a chamber of architects. To become an architect, a degree in architecture is required beforehand. This course usually lasts six semesters and provides students with the necessary specialist knowledge in the areas of design, construction, building law and construction management. During my studies, I learn how to design buildings, produce technical drawings and manage construction projects.
After graduating, the path to a job in architecture leads further into practice: architecture firms or construction companies are ideal for gaining initial practical experience. Here, prospective architects can deepen their skills and specialize in certain fields.
In order to officially call yourself an "architect", you must obtain a civil engineering license in Austria. This requires a degree, three years of practical experience and the civil engineering examination.
Architect training: The first step into architecture
Studying architecture: The academic career
A degree in architecture and the corresponding official degree are a prerequisite for being able to officially call yourself an "architect". It is offered at numerous universities of applied sciences and universities in Austria and can be completed with either a Bachelor's or a Master's degree. The majority of architecture students complete their studies with a Master's degree. The prerequisite for the course is a university entrance qualification, such as the Matura.
In order to officially become an architect and theoretically become self-employed, it is necessary to gain three years of professional experience after graduation. After this, a civil engineering examination must be passed. After completing these two years, you can apply to become a full chamber member.
Basically, you can choose between different fields of study, with most students opting for the general architecture course. However, prospective interior designers can also study interior design directly
Further training as an architect: specialization and in-depth study
As an architect, it is important – as in most jobs – to undergo regular further training in order to keep up to date with the latest technology. Over 60% of architects spend between 10 and 40 hours a year on further training.
In Austria, there are numerous further training courses offered by institutions such as WIFI or other institutes.
Further training for architects can cover a wide variety of areas. These include, for example: Negotiation training, project management, further training on building or harmful substances, fire protection, legal principles and much more.
Architects who have completed their studies with a Bachelor's degree can also consider completing a further Master's degree in order to continue their education.
Creative and technical skills of architects
- Creativity and aesthetic understanding: An architect must be able to create innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs. This requires a deep understanding of proportions, spatial design and aesthetic principles.
- Technical knowledge: Architects must be familiar with building techniques, materials and construction methods. This includes knowledge of structural design, building technology and sustainability.
- CAD software and drawing skills: The ability to create technical drawings is essential. Architects use computer-aided design (CAD) software to visualize their ideas and create precise plans.
- Project management: Architects often work on complex projects with many stakeholders. Good project management is therefore crucial. This includes time management, budgeting and communication skills.
- Knowledge of building law and regulations: Architects must know the applicable building regulations and standards to ensure that their designs comply with legal requirements.
- Communication skills: In order to communicate effectively with clients, builders, engineers and other professionals, architects must also demonstrate strength in this area. This includes presenting ideas, negotiating contracts and solving problems.
- Analytical thinking: Processing complex information, finding creative solutions to design problems and an analytical approach are essential.
- Teamwork: Architects rarely work alone. The ability to collaborate with other professionals, such as interior designers, landscape architects and building contractors, is of great importance.
- Passion for architecture: Ultimately, architects should have a deep passion for architecture and design. This passion drives you to constantly learn and develop.
Architect's career:
Your chances on the job marketThe profession of architect is a job that is always in demand, but its content is changing. This is because the demands placed on construction are changing in line with the social environment. For example, the demand for experts in ecological construction is currently on the rise. Social aspects are also becoming increasingly important. Architects are therefore required to design buildings that are functional, barrier-free and convey a pleasant atmosphere. Architects who have specialized in a specific area, such as building design, project supervision or implementation planning, have the best chances on the job market.
Job alternatives for architects
In addition to the traditional career as an architect - for example in an architecture firm - there are now also alternative career opportunities. Over the past few decades, the gaming industry has given rise to the profession of game designer, which is often not dissimilar to that of architect. The video game industry is now larger than the film or music industry and therefore offers good career opportunities. The architecture of the fictional world plays a major role in video games – so IT-savvy architects can also see a future in this profession.
Working in monument conservation, as an architectural photographer or the theoretical study of architecture could also be alternative job prospects for trained architects.
Career opportunities as an architect remain stable in Austria
Well-trained architects are in high demand on the job market, not least because of the shortage of skilled workers. Their chances of a secure job and an above-average salary are good in the industry. Satisfaction among German members of the Chamber of Architects is also high: 74% of those surveyed would choose a career as an architect again.
In Austria, the construction industry performed very well until 2020, when the coronavirus pandemic caused it to collapse. The situation has since calmed down and employment prospects look good.
The order situation for architects is characterized by great uncertainty. Nevertheless, the business climate in this sector remains positive and a career as an architect is still recommended.
Top Vacancies: Architects Jobs (m/F/d)
FAQ
An architect is an expert in the design, planning and construction of buildings and other structures. Architects not only design aesthetically pleasing buildings, but also consider aspects such as functionality, sustainability, safety and user comfort. They work closely with clients, engineers and other professionals to see projects through from concept to completion.
An architect is an expert in the design, planning and construction of buildings and other structures. Architects not only design aesthetically pleasing buildings, but also consider aspects such as functionality, sustainability, safety and user comfort. They work closely with clients, engineers and other professionals to see projects through from concept to completion.
The average salary for architects in Austria is €45,000 gross per year. Architects can expect a starting salary of around €42,000, rising to around €65,000 after a few years.
In order to officially call yourself an architect, you must have a degree in architecture (Bachelor's or Master's) and three years of professional experience. After this, the civil engineering examination must be successfully passed in order to join the Chamber of Architects.
It usually takes about 5 years to study architecture (Bachelor and Master). This is followed by at least 3 years of practical experience and preparation for the civil engineering exam. In total, it can therefore take several years to work as a fully qualified architect.
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