Architect

An architect is a highly educated professional who creates design concepts for buildings, building additions and restoration projects.  An architect holds a Master of Architecture degree, has completed an internship and is licensed by the appropriate state authority.

Architects may be involved in a construction project from concept to completion.  In these cases, the architect provides models, drawings and specifications, consults with other relevant professionals, establishes a budget, engages and co-ordinates contractors, researches pertinent building codes and legislation for compliance and supervises support staff.  Some architects prefer to specialize in one aspect of architecture.

An architect has creative design vision, excellent communication skills, technical expertise, administrative abilities, time management aptitude and complex problem solving proficiency.

Architects may be self-employed or partners or employees in firms.  Architecture firms usually consist of five or less architects.

An architect spends the bulk of his or her time in the office drafting plans and documents and attending to written communications and telephone conferences.  He or she may also visit building sites to monitor progress.